The Internet is used what is called Domain Name Resolution Services(DNS). In simple terms the DNS service translates the web site address which you enter into the websites actual IP Address.
Normally each ISP/Network you are on will use that Network’s/ISP’s DNS Server. The problem with this approach is many ISP’s DNS servers are slow and unreliable. I am with Rogers in Canada and their DNS server is awefull.
Most times that your ISP has problems with the Internet you can connect but you wonder why you can not reach web sites. This is because the ISP’s DNS server is down. If the DNS Server is down then the web site names you key in will not resolve to the actually IP address. Without connecting to the IP Address you will not be able to connect to that web site.
This is where Open DNS comes in. Open DNS is a free DNS server on the Internet which provides free DNS services. In order for Open DNS to work you can change your DNS server settings in your network configuration to reflect the OPEN DNS servers. The Open DNS servers are:
Open DNS Servers:
208.67.222.222
208.67.220.220.
If you have a router these entries should be changed on the Router’s DNS settings. If yoYou u only have one pc the settings can be changed in the TCP/IP properties on the PC.
Their are a few reason’s to use Open DNS. They are as follows:
1. Open DNS is faster then most other DNS servers.
2. Open DNS is more reliable. They have mirror servers all over the US.
3. Open DNS can be configured to allow/not allow certain web sites. This feature is handy if you have young kids.
Personally I have used Open DNS for over 2 years now and I have never had another major issue DNS services since then.
