Surfshark Launches Free Privacy-Focused DNS Service to Protect User Data

Innovative solution offers no-logs browsing while potentially improving connection speeds

  • Surfshark has launched a free public DNS service focused on privacy and ease of use.
  • Unlike traditional DNS providers, Surfshark DNS operates on a strict no-logs policy with zero tracking.
  • The service may offer faster connections through Surfshark’s global infrastructure.
  • Users can implement Surfshark DNS by changing settings on their devices or routers.
  • The service supports secure DNS protocols including DoT, DoH, and DoQ.

Surfshark has officially launched a free public DNS service that prioritizes user privacy, marking a significant development in the online security landscape.

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This first-of-its-kind tool stands apart from traditional DNS providers by implementing a strict no-logs policy with absolutely no tracking or data collection.

The new service offers both individuals and organizations a straightforward yet effective way to enhance their online privacy.

By using Surfshark’s DNS servers, users can prevent their internet service providers from monitoring their browsing activities through DNS requests, a common privacy vulnerability in standard setups.

Users may also experience performance benefits from the service. Thanks to Surfshark’s globally distributed infrastructure, connections could become faster and more reliable compared to standard ISP-provided DNS options.

This combination of privacy and performance improvements makes the offering particularly attractive for privacy-conscious users.

Implementation requires replacing default DNS servers with Surfshark’s addresses on devices or routers.

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The company provides specific instructions for various platforms, with their DNS addresses being 194.169.169.169 (IPv4) and 2a09:a707:169:: (IPv6).

The process varies slightly depending on whether users are configuring Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, or router settings.

How to Change DNS Settings on Various Devices

Why change your DNS settings? Changing your DNS can enhance privacy, improve connection speeds, and sometimes help bypass regional restrictions. Surfshark’s DNS addresses are 194.169.169.169 (IPv4) and 2a09:a707:169:: (IPv6).

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Windows 10/11 +
  • Click the Start menu and select Settings (gear icon)
  • Select Network & Internet
  • Click on Wi-Fi or Ethernet (depending on your connection type)
  • Click on your connected network
  • Scroll down and click Edit under DNS server assignment
  • Change the setting from Automatic (DHCP) to Manual
  • Turn on IPv4
  • Enter the preferred DNS server (e.g., 194.169.169.169)
  • Add an alternate DNS server if desired
  • Click Save
  • Restart your browser
macOS +
  • Click the Apple menu and select System Preferences
  • Click Network
  • Select your active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet)
  • Click the Advanced button
  • Select the DNS tab
  • Click the + button at the bottom left to add a DNS server
  • Enter the preferred DNS address (e.g., 194.169.169.169)
  • Add additional servers if desired
  • Click OK, then Apply
  • Restart your browser
iPhone/iPad (iOS) +
  • Open Settings app
  • Tap Wi-Fi
  • Tap the “i” icon next to your connected network
  • Scroll down to Configure DNS
  • Tap Manual
  • If there are existing servers, tap the red minus button to remove them (optional)
  • Tap Add Server and enter the DNS address (e.g., 194.169.169.169)
  • Add additional servers if desired
  • Tap Save in the top right corner
Android +
  • Open Settings app
  • Tap Network & Internet or Connections
  • Tap Wi-Fi
  • Long-press your connected network
  • Tap Modify Network or Manage Network Settings
  • Tap Advanced Options
  • Change IP settings from DHCP to Static
  • Enter the DNS servers (e.g., 194.169.169.169)
  • Tap Save
Google Pixel (Android) +
  • Open Settings app
  • Tap Network & Internet
  • Tap Internet
  • Tap the gear icon next to your connected network
  • Tap Advanced or Privacy
  • Tap Private DNS
  • Select Private DNS provider hostname
  • Enter the DNS provider (e.g., dns.surfshark.com)
  • Tap Save
Router (General Instructions) +
  • Open a web browser and enter your router’s IP address (commonly 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1)
  • Log in with your admin credentials
  • Navigate to DNS Settings (may be under Advanced Settings, WAN Settings, or Internet Settings)
  • Enter the primary and secondary DNS server addresses
  • Save changes and restart your router
PlayStation 4/5 +
  • Go to Settings
  • Select Network
  • Select Set Up Internet Connection
  • Choose Wi-Fi or LAN Cable
  • Select Custom setup
  • Choose your network (for Wi-Fi)
  • Set IP Address Settings to Automatic
  • Set DHCP Host Name to Do Not Specify
  • Set DNS Settings to Manual
  • Enter the primary and secondary DNS servers
  • Set MTU Settings to Automatic
  • Set Proxy Server to Do Not Use
  • Test the internet connection to confirm
Xbox One/Series X|S +
  • Press the Xbox button on your controller
  • Go to Settings
  • Select Network
  • Select Network settings
  • Select Advanced settings
  • Select DNS settings
  • Select Manual
  • Enter the primary and secondary DNS servers
  • Return to the home screen and restart the console

After changing your DNS settings on any device, you may want to verify that the changes are working properly by using a DNS leak test tool online.

The service supports advanced secure DNS protocols including DoT (DNS over TLS), DoH (DNS over HTTPS), and DoQ (DNS over QUIC) to further protect browsing activity.

Unlike some alternatives, Surfshark offers this service completely free without hidden fees, integrated advertisements, or trackers.

While a DNS service alone doesn’t provide the comprehensive protection of a full VPN, which encrypts all traffic and masks IP addresses, it represents a significant step toward better online privacy.

For users seeking enhanced privacy without committing to a VPN subscription, Surfshark’s free DNS service offers an accessible entry point to more private browsing.

For those who are looking for even more privacy, buying VPN with Monero should be something to consider as well.

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