Domain name system (DNS) is like an internet directory that finds the websites you want to visit. It translates domain names like namecheap.com and hostnames like support.namecheap.com (which are words – that humans use) into the corresponding Internet Protocol (IP) addresses (which are numbers – that computers use). Because every website is basically a number in ‘computer world’.

What is a public (recursive) DNS?

A public (recursive) DNS provides the IP address of the domain name you request. It’s the standard DNS system that locates the websites you ask to visit. PublicDNS isn’t tied to a specific ISP.

Why is SafeServe free? What’s the catch?

There is no catch. Namecheap is fully committed to making sure the Internet is always safe and secure for everyone to use. This service is just part of that commitment. No signup. No cost. Just private browsing with no one eavesdropping or manipulating your data.

Why is SafeServe secure?

For this service, we have implemented DNS over TLS. This means that no one can see which websites you want to visit. This is because all the DNS connections are covered by Transport Layer Security.

What devices can I use SafeServe with?

There are no restrictions on which devices you can use it with. You can find a separate configuration manual for each platform on this page.

How do I check that the service is working?

Once you correctly followed all the steps from the instructions, open any browser on the device you set the DNS on and try connecting to any website. If it loads, then everything works fine. We are also working on the personal online-checker so stay tuned!

How do I change my smart device cellular DNS?

Unfortunately, it’s not currently possible to change the cellular DNS settings on Android and iOS devices.

Do I need to create an account with Namecheap to use the service?

No. Just go right ahead. It’s all part of our mission to protect consumer rights, and your privacy online.

Can I use SafeServe to host my domain name or website?

No. this is a recursive (public) DNS and is a resolution server only. If you need a good authoritative nameserver to manage your zone file and DNS records, you can refer to our PremiumDNS service.

SafeServe: Free Public DNS

Connect to any website, anywhere in total privacy

Set Up Now

Make sure no one can see, track or exploit your browsing data ever again. Encrypt the entire Domain Name System (DNS) level of your computer or any smart device with Transport Layer Security (TLS)^[1].

Change your Internet Service Provider’s DNS to SafeServe now, and start enjoying a proper level of privacy and security when you browse online. Unlike most DNS resolvers, we won’t sell your data to third-party advertisers either. Just set up in a few simple steps.

Total DNS privacy across the world
Available now with no registration
Use with any computer, device, or operating system

Why SafeServe?

Total Security

Forget about the dangers of Man in the Middle attacks, because now the ‘middle’ is completely secure.

Total Privacy

Keep your DNS requests and responses private, and your data away from anyone who shouldn’t have it.

Total Reliability

Enjoy the very highest levels of uptime through our DNS servers across Europe and the United States.

Setting up is Simple

Just click on your operating system, and follow the easy steps to SafeServe DNS success.

Please note: we highly recommend that you write down any existing DNS server entries for future references.

Open “Settings” on your iOS device
Click on “Wi-Fi” to see the wireless network you are connected to. Click on the “i” icon.
If you use iOS 11, find the “DNS” section and click on “Configure DNS”, then select “Manual”.
Delete the current DNS servers.
Tap “Add Server” and enter SafeServe resolvers: 198.54.117.10
Tap “Save” in the right upper corner and exit the menu.
Now try browsing any website in your mobile browser. If it’s loading, then you are good to go.

Important: the above instructions will work via Wi-Fi connections only. DNS servers cannot be changed when connected to cellular networks on iOS. You will also need to change the DNS servers every time you connect to a new wireless network, as all changes are network specific.

Please also note that there is no built-in DNS over TLS support for this OS. Set up may require additional, more complex configurations using proxy resolvers that support DNS over TLS functionality. We do not describe the whole process here due to its complexity.

How Is This Different from VPN?

Discover the difference between SafeServe Free Public DNS and VPN.

Learn more

Why Namecheap

Privacy and Security

Your website security and privacy comes first at Namecheap, and we will always support the rights of individuals and consumers online. It’s our mission to keep the Internet open, free, and safe for everyone.

Your Business Online

Boost your business with industry-premium products and services, at prices that won’t break your budget. If it doesn’t provide you with a better Internet experience, we simply don’t offer it.

Customer Service

You’re covered by a Support Team that’s renowned for being one of the most knowledgeable, friendly, and professional in the business. Real people are ready to assist you with any issue, any time, 24/7.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is DNS?
Domain name system (DNS) is like an internet directory that finds the websites you want to visit. It translates domain names like namecheap.com and hostnames like support.namecheap.com (which are words – that humans use) into the corresponding Internet Protocol (IP) addresses (which are numbers – that computers use). Because every website is basically a number in ‘computer world’.
What is a public (recursive) DNS?
A public (recursive) DNS provides the IP address of the domain name you request. It’s the standard DNS system that locates the websites you ask to visit. PublicDNS isn’t tied to a specific ISP.
Why is SafeServe free? What’s the catch?
There is no catch. Namecheap is fully committed to making sure the Internet is always safe and secure for everyone to use. This service is just part of that commitment. No signup. No cost. Just private browsing with no one eavesdropping or manipulating your data.
Why is SafeServe secure?
For this service, we have implemented DNS over TLS. This means that no one can see which websites you want to visit. This is because all the DNS connections are covered by Transport Layer Security.
What devices can I use SafeServe with?
There are no restrictions on which devices you can use it with. You can find a separate configuration manual for each platform on this page.
How do I check that the service is working?
Once you correctly followed all the steps from the instructions, open any browser on the device you set the DNS on and try connecting to any website. If it loads, then everything works fine.
We are also working on the personal online-checker so stay tuned!
How do I change my smart device cellular DNS?
Unfortunately, it’s not currently possible to change the cellular DNS settings on Android and iOS devices.
Do I need to create an account with Namecheap to use the service?
No. Just go right ahead. It’s all part of our mission to protect consumer rights, and your privacy online.
Can I use SafeServe to host my domain name or website?
No. this is a recursive (public) DNS and is a resolution server only. If you need a good authoritative nameserver to manage your zone file and DNS records, you can refer to our PremiumDNS service.

Disclaimers

Namecheap believes in a free and open internet, including your right to privacy on it. That’s why we are offering SafeServe, our public DNS service, to anyone who wishes to use it. Using it does come with some terms that you will need to agree to. They are pretty straightforward and you can find them here.
SafeServe is a recursive public DNS. If you need to manage your host records and domain’s DNS zone, you can consider using our PremiumDNS product .
Currently, Android 9 support DNS over TLS. Other devices may require additional, more complex configurations using proxy resolvers that support DNS over TLS functionality.
Configuration instructions differ from one operating system version to another, that is why we provide one set-up version as an example. For more specific instructions, please refer to the provider’s official documentation.