The 10 Best DNS Servers for Gaming to Reduce Lag and Increase Speed in 2025

Online gaming has become more competitive and immersive in 2025. Esports has exploded into a billion-dollar industry, attracting millions of aspiring players. Gamers want every advantage to enhance their experience and make a name for themselves. Among the many ways to improve performance, one overlooked aspect is the DNS server. 

The DNS server plays a big role in how players connect with the game and how their actions are reflected on the screen. For a seamless gaming experience, optimizing DNS servers for gaming should be a top priority. But what exactly is a DNS server, and how does it impact the gaming experience? 

We will dive into the details of this critical question and help you discover the top 10 DNS servers for gaming you should try out in 2025!

What Are DNS Servers?

DNS (Domain Name System) servers act as the internet’s phonebook. When you type a website’s name, such as “example.com,” into your browser, DNS servers find the corresponding numerical IP address computers use to locate servers on the internet. This process happens in the background whenever you connect to a website, game server, or online service.

How DNS Servers Affect Gaming

DNS servers impact and improve gaming in five ways.

1. Ping and Latency

Ping is the time it takes for a signal to travel from your device to a server and back. Lower ping means a faster connection, which is vital for real-time gaming, where split-second decisions matter. Research by Worcester Polytechnic Institute shows that high ping drastically reduces game performance. The performance drop  is also very noticeable and reduces enjoyment while increasing player stress. 

For example, consider competitive games like Valorant, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS: GO), or Call of Duty: Warzone. Even a slight delay can give opponents a major advantage in these highly competitive shooter games. A reliable DNS server can reduce latency by efficiently routing your connection to game servers.

2. Connection Stability

DNS servers can also affect the stability of your connection. Highly reliable servers ensure consistent connectivity. At the same time, they reduce the chances of packet loss or disconnections during gameplay. 

This is especially critical in games like Fortnite, Apex Legends, or League of Legends, where sudden connection drops can ruin your gaming experience and even cost you a competitive match.

3. Faster Matchmaking

Many online games require connecting to matchmaking servers before starting a session. A faster DNS server can speed up this process, getting you into games quicker. 

For instance, PUBG, Overwatch, or Dota 2 players can benefit from reduced waiting times when connecting to matchmaking servers.

4. DDoS Protection

Certain DNS servers have built-in security features like DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) protection. This is particularly important for competitive gaming or hosting game servers, where targeted attacks can disrupt gameplay. A research published in the Security Magazine posited that there is a 3% rise in gaming-related DDoS attacks. 

Titles like Rainbow Six Siege, Minecraft, and even eSports tournaments rely on secure connections to prevent malicious interruptions.

5. Access to Geo-Restricted Content

Some DNS services can bypass geo-restrictions. This gives gamers access to servers, games, and content unavailable in their region. 

For example, MMORPG players in World of Warcraft or Final Fantasy XIV may need to connect to specific regional servers to play with friends or access exclusive events.

The Top 10 DNS Servers for Gaming in 2025

Here is a list of the top 10 DNS servers you can connect to for a great gaming session. Each option has unique strengths, and the right fit depends on your specific gaming needs.

1. Cloudflare DNS

Cloudflare is renowned for its blazing-fast performance and privacy-focused approach. It boasts some of the lowest latency in the DNS space, which can significantly enhance gaming performance. Its built-in DDoS protection also makes it ideal for gamers looking to safeguard their connections from malicious attacks.

• Primary DNS: 1.1.1.1
• Secondary DNS: 1.0.0.1
• IPv6 Addresses: 2606:4700:4700::1111, 2606:4700:4700::1001

2. Google Public DNS

Google’s Public DNS is an industry-standard name for reliability and speed. With its massive infrastructure, Google ensures minimal downtime and optimal connection speeds. Gamers in regions with limited server options will benefit from its robust routing capabilities, reducing lag during intense gameplay sessions.

• Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8
• Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4
• IPv6 Addresses: 2001:4860:4860::8888, 2001:4860:4860::8844

3. NextDNS

NextDNS is a versatile and tech-savvy option. It allows users to customize their DNS settings, block ads, and protect against trackers. Gamers who want an additional layer of privacy and security alongside excellent performance will find NextDNS highly appealing. Its customization options are particularly useful for hosting private game servers.

• Primary DNS: 45.90.28.190
• Secondary DNS: 45.90.30.190
• IPv6 Addresses: (2a07:a8c0::<your config ID>) and (2a07:a8c1::<your config ID>)

4. Quad9

Quad9 stands out for its strong security focus, blocking access to malicious websites and phishing attacks. Its performance matches leading DNS providers, making it a great choice for gamers who value speed and safety. Games with sensitive transactions, like MMORPGs or eSports titles, benefit greatly from Quad9’s security measures.

• Primary DNS: 9.9.9.9
• Secondary DNS: 149.112.112.112
• IPv6 Addresses: 2620:fe::fe, 2620:fe::9

5. Gcore CDN

Gcore specializes in gaming-specific DNS solutions. With a vast network of servers designed for low-latency performance, Gcore is a popular choice for gamers seeking ultra-responsive connections. The DNS service is tailored to improve matchmaking and reduce lag in competitive games like CS: GO and Valorant.

• Primary DNS: 95.85.95.85
• Secondary DNS: 2.56.220.2
• IPv6 Addresses: (Up to 14 IPv6 addresses can be purchased for Gcore.)

6. Comodo Secure DNS

Comodo Secure DNS emphasizes safety and reliability. Its filtering capabilities help prevent access to harmful websites, ensuring a secure gaming environment. Comodo’s stable connections are especially beneficial for gamers who frequently join public servers in games like Minecraft or Rust.

• Primary DNS: 8.26.56.26
• Secondary DNS: 8.20.247.20
• IPv6 Addresses: Not available

7. NordVPN DNS

NordVPN DNS is part of NordVPN’s ecosystem, offering a secure and privacy-focused solution. It is optimized for gaming by routing traffic through NordVPN’s high-speed servers, ensuring low latency and protection against DDoS attacks. Gamers looking to maintain their privacy and security while achieving stable connections will find NordVPN DNS an excellent choice.

• Primary DNS: 103.86.96.100
• Secondary DNS: 103.86.99.100
• IPv6 Addresses: Automatically assigned through NordVPN services 

8. CleanBrowsing DNS

CleanBrowsing DNS is a unique solution for gamers who want a safe online environment. Its robust DNS filters remove unnecessary and explicit material (18+ content), optimizing performance while maintaining a wholesome experience. It is ideal for family-friendly gaming setups for multiplayer titles like Roblox and Fortnite.

• Primary DNS: 185.228.168.9
• Secondary DNS: 185.228.169.9
• IPv6 Addresses: 2a0d:2a00:1::2, 2a0d:2a00:2::2

9. Cisco Umbrella

Cisco Umbrella, formerly OpenDNS for Business, delivers enterprise-grade DNS performance. Gamers hosting private servers or participating in high-stakes tournaments benefit from its security-focused features and lightning-fast resolutions. Cisco Umbrella excels in protecting competitive players from DDoS attacks, making it a trusted choice for gaming enthusiasts.

• Primary DNS: 208.67.222.222
• Secondary DNS: 208.67.220.220
• IPv6 Addresses: 2620:119:35::35, 2620:119:53::53 

10. Yandex DNS

Yandex DNS is an excellent option for gamers in Russia and nearby regions. It provides quick connections to local servers and includes security features to block malicious sites. For gamers in areas with fewer global DNS server options, Yandex DNS ensures stable and responsive gameplay.

• Primary DNS: 77.88.8.8
• Secondary DNS: 77.88.8.1
• IPv6 Addresses: 2a02:6b8::feed:0ff, 2a02:6b8:0:1::feed:0ff

Choosing the Right DNS Server for Gaming

While all these DNS servers are excellent, the best choice depends on your location, gaming habits, and specific requirements. Factors like distance to the DNS server, your ISP’s routing efficiency, and required security features should influence your decision. You can experiment with multiple DNS servers to find the one that delivers the best performance for your gaming setup.

Enhance your gaming experience by choosing a DNS server tailored to your needs. A better DNS server means faster connections, lower latency, and a smoother online gaming adventure. Happy gaming!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Which DNS server is the fastest for gaming?

The fastest DNS server for gaming depends on your location and network setup. Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1 and other options like Google DNS’s 8.8.8.8 are often among the fastest, but running a DNS benchmark can help you find the best option.

Q. Is 1.1.1.1 still the fastest DNS?

Yes, 1.1.1.1 by Cloudflare remains one of the fastest DNS servers available. Its global network and low latency make it a top choice for gamers.

Q. Does 1.1.1.1 improve gaming?

1.1.1.1 can improve gaming by reducing lag and improving response times. Its fast and reliable DNS resolution helps you connect to game servers quickly, enhancing your overall gaming experience.

Q. What is the fastest IPv6 DNS?

Cloudflare’s IPv6 DNS, with addresses 2606:4700:4700::1111, is one of the fastest IPv6 DNS options available. It offers similar performance benefits to its IPv4 counterpart.

Q. What is the world’s fastest DNS?

Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1 is widely regarded as the world’s fastest DNS, with consistently short resolution times and high reliability globally.

Q. Is IPv6 DNS better?

IPv6 DNS can offer improved performance and security in networks that support it. However, the benefits depend on your specific setup and whether your ISP fully supports IPv6.