How to Set Up OpenDNS on Windows, macOS, Linux, or Router? Print

Overview
OpenDNS (a Cisco service) is a free and secure DNS solution that helps improve internet reliability, speed, and safety. In addition to faster browsing, OpenDNS can block phishing sites and, with an account, provide content filtering.

This guide shows you how to configure OpenDNS on your computer or office network.

OpenDNS Addresses

• IPv4

  • Preferred DNS: 208.67.222.222

  • Alternate DNS: 208.67.220.220

• IPv6 (optional)

  • Preferred DNS: 2620:119:35::35

  • Alternate DNS: 2620:119:53::53

Windows 10 / 11

1. Right-click the network/Wi-Fi icon → Open Network & Internet Settings.

2. Scroll down → Change adapter options.

3. Right-click your active network → Properties.

4. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) → Properties.

5. Choose Use the following DNS server addresses:

   • Preferred DNS: 208.67.222.222

   • Alternate DNS: 208.67.220.220

6. (Optional) For IPv6, repeat with:

   • 2620:119:35::35

   • 2620:119:53::53

7. Click OK and reconnect to your network.

macOS (Ventura, Monterey, Big Sur, older)

1. Open System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions).

2. Go to Network.

3. Select your active connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) → Details/Advanced.

4. Open the DNS tab.

5. Remove existing entries and add:

   • 208.67.222.222

   • 208.67.220.220
     (Optional: add IPv6 addresses above)

6. Click OK → Apply.

Linux (Ubuntu/Debian – Network Manager GUI)

1. Click the network icon → Settings.

2. Select your active connection → Settings.

3. Under IPv4 → DNS, enter:

   • 208.67.222.222, 208.67.220.220

4. For IPv6, enter:

   • 2620:119:35::35, 2620:119:53::53

5. Save and reconnect to your network.

Linux (Command Line – resolv.conf)

1. Open a terminal:

    

   sudo nano /etc/resolv.conf

2. Add:

    

   nameserver 208.67.222.222 nameserver 208.67.220.220

3. Save (CTRL+O) and exit (CTRL+X).

4. Restart networking:

    

   sudo systemctl restart NetworkManager

(Note: Some distros overwrite resolv.conf — use NetworkManager or systemd-resolved for persistent settings.)

Router Setup (Recommended for Office Networks)

To apply OpenDNS to all devices in your office:

1. Log into your router/modem admin panel (often at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).

2. Locate the DNS settings (under Internet, WAN, or DHCP settings).

3. Replace existing DNS entries with:

   • Primary: 208.67.222.222

   • Secondary: 208.67.220.220

4. Save and restart the router.

Verify Setup

To confirm you are using OpenDNS:

• Visit https://welcome.opendns.com/

• If configured correctly, you’ll see a confirmation message.

✅ Tip: For extra features like content filtering or usage stats, sign up for a free OpenDNS Home account and link it to your network.