What Is the Difference Between a Preferred DNS Server & an Alternate DNS Server? (2024)

Every networked computer uses a complex system of addresses and protocols to communicate. There are times when these services fail, and it might be appropriate to consider a preferred and alternate name resolution configuration. Beware though, because you must have a basic understanding of how this works to avoid configuration errors.

Domain Name System

1. A domain name system handles the process where host names are mapped to IP addresses through a network service called a domain name server. Each network device, such as a computer, printer or server, has a host name or alias that needs to be assigned a number for communication. To be connected online, a host name has to be mapped to an IP address. This is the primary way you can type in a domain name and be able to connect with that specific system rather than trying to remember a numerical address.

   See Also

   Run Your Own Authoritative DNS Servers

Specifying Servers

1. The preferred DNS is a specified primary choice to handle Internet protocol mapping. If the preferred choice times out after a time limit defined by an operating system, it will then attempt to try the alternate DNS. Servers are subject to the same connectivity problems a home user may experience. Home computers are configured to handle this process automatically.

Windows 8

1. You must be logged in as an administrator to manually configure network settings. Click on the Desktop tile from the main screen. Hover over the bottom-right corner of the window and then click "Settings." Choose "Control Panel" and click "Network and Internet." Select "Network and Sharing Center" and then click "Change Adapter Settings." On the Network Connections window, right-click the network adapter you want to manually configure. From the context menu that appears, click "Properties" and double-click "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)." Click “Use the Following IP Address” and enter in the numerical value. You can now configure a preferred and alternate source for domain name resolution.

Warnings

1. Most operating systems will automatically obtain a valid IP address and DNS servers. Using an incorrect configuration will prevent your computer from connecting to the Internet. Before making any changes, ensure that you have the correct IP addresses from your ISP.