Google Public DNS 8.8.8.8 Reference: IPv4, IPv6, dns.google & Testing

Google Public DNS quick reference: the primary/secondary IPv4 pair commonly used in DNS fields is 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4. Android’s Private DNS provider hostname is dns.google. Do not put 8.8.8.8 into a hostname-only Private DNS field.

What are Google’s primary and secondary DNS addresses?

For traditional IPv4 DNS fields, use:

• Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8
• Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4

Both addresses belong to Google Public DNS. They are not different products and are not designed as a “fast” and “slow” pair.

Google DNS hostname for Android

Android’s Private DNS provider field expects a hostname. For Google Public DNS, enter:

dns.google

Google’s Android help documentation describes the Private DNS setting as a provider-hostname field and notes that Private DNS secures DNS questions and answers only; it is not a VPN.

8.8.8.8 vs dns.google

8.8.8.8 is an IPv4 resolver address. dns.google is a hostname used by Android Private DNS. They access the same Google Public DNS service family through different configuration interfaces.

For a full Android walkthrough, see Google DNS on Android.

Google Public DNS IPv6 addresses

Google also documents these IPv6 resolver addresses:

• 2001:4860:4860::8888
• 2001:4860:4860::8844

Use IPv6 values only in an interface that accepts IPv6 DNS addresses. Android Private DNS still uses the provider hostname approach.

Can I use 8.8.8.8 as DNS 1 and 8.8.4.4 as DNS 2?

Yes, when the network configuration explicitly provides classic DNS server fields. On Android this may appear when manually editing a Wi-Fi network. Be careful when switching IP settings from DHCP to Static, because that can expose other fields such as IP address, gateway and prefix length that must remain valid.

Is Google DNS faster than my ISP DNS?

Not necessarily. Google Public DNS uses a global anycast infrastructure, but the fastest resolver on your connection depends on routing, ISP or carrier, congestion and location. Test rather than assume.

Use our DNS Speed Test on Android guide to compare resolver response time correctly.

How to verify Google DNS after changing it

1. Save the DNS configuration.
2. Reconnect to the network if necessary.
3. Confirm normal browsing works.
4. Use a DNS resolver/leak test or diagnostic app to inspect the resolver path.
5. If a VPN or DNS changer is active, remember it may override Android’s normal resolver configuration.

DNS Changer Pro & Speed Test can be used as an Android-side testing workflow when you want to compare DNS and network behavior.

Does 8.8.8.8 increase internet speed?

Changing DNS can reduce name-resolution delay on some networks. It does not raise the bandwidth provided by your ISP and does not guarantee lower game-server ping.

For the performance distinction, read Does Changing DNS Make Android Internet Faster?.

Official references

• Google Public DNS configuration documentation
• Google Public DNS FAQ
• Android Help — Private DNS