Using Open Source Dns

Running Windows 10 with all current updates.

My ISP (Comcast) sent me a new router, claiming that it would let me take advantage of all the options and maximize my internet speed. It runs generally OK but slower than the previous router. Download speed at about 50MBPS which is what I pay for the problem is that iOS devices sometimes can't seem to find the internet.

During my research, I found the stuff on changing the ISP default DNS setting to Open or Google DNS for significantly increased internet speeds. I ran Namebench to see what it recommended and I got a warning, see the attached image.

I'm not surprised seeing this from Comcast but is there any way around it, legally of course? Can I just go into the router settings, or the Window settings, and manually change the DNS settings to Open DNS or Google? The warning says I cant utilize alternate servers but also says please adjust your router configuration. What adjustments should I make to allow the use of alternate servers? Without of course breaking what I have.

Based on your answers but before I make any changes I will drop by the local Comcast store and see what gives.

 

Every router I've ever had has allowed me to set whatever DNS addresses I want. You simply need to know the IP address for the router and enter it into your browser address bar. You will then be asked for your username and password which will have been supplied with the router. The router config screens will then open.

I would treat the claims for increased speed with a large pinch of salt.

 

Model number would be help full.

 

Modem and router combined Arris TG1682G. There is a lot of negative comment on this unit such as "known issues"... I did have in the past my own modem when I first settings up years ago so can go that way if things get too bad.

A curious thing to me. I ran a speed test on my iPhone and the speed was over 120Mbps, 2.5x times faster than my desktop both are on the same wifi network off of the Arris router.

 

...Namebench enters the ISP default DNS address for comparison, an internet check confirms they are Comcast default primary and secondary.
...The one claim that is documented is by a user of Namebench that shows Google's open DNS in a screenshot a 192% than the DNS to which it was compared (may not have been Comcast)

 

A DNS servers' role is only to convert URLs into IP addresses, a very small element in your overall internet experience. Changing DNS servers is not going to have a perceptible effect on your internet speed.

 

What Earthling says is correct, Your internet connection does not go through the DNS server, nor would routing through it improve your speed.....that is still taken care of by Comcast.
Using an openDNS or something like Googles, you likely will be going through several other connections first (potentially on the other side of the world) before heading back to where you wanted to go, and this does not improve ping.

Other companies are telling you it will greatly improve speed because they have something to gain from you doing so!
Their gain may materialize from a few areas, but usually from your wallet.