How to Change DNS Server on an LG Smart TV

Introduction

Changing the DNS server on your LG Smart TV can enhance your streaming experience by potentially speeding up connection times and even bypassing geographical restrictions. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to change DNS server settings on various models of LG Smart TVs, along with an understanding of what DNS is and why changing it can be beneficial.

Understanding DNS

What is DNS?

DNS, or Domain Name System, is like the phonebook of the internet. When you type a web address into your browser, DNS servers translate that domain name into an IP address, allowing your device to connect to the desired web content. By default, your ISP (Internet Service Provider) assigns DNS servers, but these can be changed to different ones.

Benefits of Changing DNS Server

  • Increased Speed: Some third-party DNS servers are faster than ISP-provided DNS servers.
  • Improved Reliability: High-quality DNS servers can have better uptime and more consistent performance.
  • Content Filtering: Some DNS services offer features like content filtering to block unwanted websites automatically.
  • Bypassing Geo-Restrictions: Changing to a DNS server in a different geographical location can sometimes help access geo-blocked content.

How to Change DNS Server on LG Smart TV

The steps to change the DNS server on your LG Smart TV will slightly vary depending on the model and operating system version. Below are the general steps for newer and older models:

For WebOS (2014 and Newer Models)

  1. Press the Settings button on your LG remote.
  2. Scroll and select All Settings.
  3. Go to Network and select Wi-Fi Connection or Ethernet, depending on how your TV is connected to the internet.
  4. Select the network you are connected to, and select Advanced Wi-Fi Settings.
  5. In the IP settings, change from ‚DHCP‘ to ‚Static‘.
  6. Enter the DNS server address you wish to use in the DNS Server field.
  7. Save your settings, and restart your TV to apply the changes.

For NetCast (Pre-2014 Models)

  1. Press the Home button on your LG remote.
  2. Go to Setup and then select Network.
  3. Choose Network Connection and select Start Connection.
  4. Select your connection method, Wired or Wireless.
  5. After the connection test, press the Manual Setup button.
  6. From here, select Static IP and input the DNS server you wish to use.
  7. Confirm your settings and exit the menu. Reboot your TV to activate the changes.

Recommended DNS Servers

There are various DNS services available you can use. Here are some popular ones with their primary DNS addresses:

DNS Provider Primary DNS
Google Public DNS 8.8.8.8
OpenDNS 208.67.222.222
Cloudflare 1.1.1.1

Links for Further Information

  • Google Public DNS: This page provides more details about Google’s DNS service, including additional configuration options.
  • OpenDNS: Visit OpenDNS to learn more about their features, which include phishing protections and parental controls.
  • Cloudflare DNS: Cloudflare’s DNS service emphasizes privacy and speed, with a comprehensive guide on setup and benefits.

Conclusion

Changing the DNS server on your LG Smart TV is a simple process that can dramatically improve your streaming experience, offer additional features like content filtering, and help bypass geographical restrictions. Whether you have a newer LG TV running on WebOS or an older one with NetCast, the steps provided above will guide you through the setup process. For general users looking for speed and reliability, Google Public DNS or Cloudflare are excellent choices. Families might prefer OpenDNS for its added parental controls. Tech-savvy users seeking optimized streaming of geo-restricted content might explore further with different DNS providers to find the perfect match for their needs.

FAQ

Feel free to reach out in the comments section below with any corrections, additional questions, or personal experiences related to changing DNS settings on LG Smart TVs. Engaging with others can provide more insights and help enhance the community’s understanding of managing DNS configurations for a better viewing experience.

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