Best DNS Settings for macOS
Step-by-step guide to configure DNS on macOS for faster gaming connections and improved reliability.
Updated March 2026
Recommended DNS Servers for Mac Gaming
These servers offer the best balance of speed, reliability, and security for gaming on macOS:
| Provider | Primary DNS | Secondary DNS | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cloudflare | 1.1.1.1 |
1.0.0.1 |
Lowest latency, fastest resolution | |
| Google DNS | 8.8.8.8 |
8.8.4.4 |
Most reliable, widest compatibility | |
| Quad9 | 9.9.9.9 |
149.112.112.112 |
Security filtering + DNSSEC | |
| Cloudflare Family | 1.1.1.3 |
1.0.0.3 |
Gaming + malware blocking |
How to Change DNS on macOS
Follow these steps to configure custom DNS on your Mac:
-
Open System Settings
Click the Apple menu > System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS). -
Network settings
Click Network, then select your active connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet). -
DNS tab
Click Details (or Advanced), then go to the DNS tab. -
Add DNS servers
Click the + button and add 1.1.1.1, then add 1.0.0.1. -
Remove old entries
Select any existing DNS entries and click - to remove them. -
Apply
Click OK, then Apply. Flush DNS cache by running: sudo dscacheutil -flushcache in Terminal.
After changing DNS, test your connection to verify everything works. You may need to restart the device or clear the DNS cache.
Find the Fastest DNS for Your Mac
Which DNS is fastest from your location? Run a real-time benchmark to test 24+ servers and find the best one for your Mac gaming.
Run DNS BenchmarkDNS Setup for Other Platforms
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best DNS for gaming on macOS?
Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) and Google (8.8.8.8) are the most popular choices for macOS gaming. Cloudflare tends to have slightly lower latency due to its massive anycast network, while Google offers the highest reliability. Run a benchmark from your network to determine which is fastest for you.
Does changing DNS on macOS improve gaming performance?
Changing DNS on macOS primarily improves connection setup times — how quickly you connect to game servers, matchmaking, and download updates. It does not reduce in-game ping once connected, since game traffic uses direct IP connections after the initial DNS resolution.
Can I use DNS-over-HTTPS on macOS?
macOS supports encrypted DNS. You can configure DNS-over-HTTPS or DNS-over-TLS in the system settings for additional privacy. This encrypts your DNS queries from your ISP.
Should I set DNS on my Mac or on my router?
Setting DNS on your router applies the change to all devices on your network, which is simpler to manage. Setting it directly on your Mac overrides the router setting for that device only. For gaming, setting it on the device ensures the DNS is always used, even on other networks.