How to Change Country Settings with Surfshark’s Smart DNS

Introduction to Surfshark’s Smart DNS

Surfshark’s Smart DNS service is a powerful feature designed to help users bypass geographical restrictions and enjoy a wealth of international content. This nifty tool works seamlessly with various devices that might not support traditional VPN applications, such as smart TVs, gaming consoles, and streaming devices like Roku or Apple TV.

An active Surfshark VPN subscription is all you need to follow along – the Smart DNS feature is included in the price. To purchase one for only half the price, click here (you’ll also get an amazon coupon).

Why Use Surfshark’s Smart DNS?

Changing country settings with Surfshark’s Smart DNS offers several benefits:

  • Unblocking Content: Access content from different regions, like US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, or Hulu.
  • Improved Speed: Unlike VPNs, Smart DNS doesn’t encrypt traffic, which can result in faster streaming speeds.
  • Device Compatibility: Use it on devices that do not support VPN software.
  • Simultaneous Use: Smart DNS can be used on multiple devices simultaneously without compromising your connection speed.

Setting up Surfshark’s Smart DNS

To get started with Surfshark’s Smart DNS, you will first need to activate the feature in your Surfshark account. Follow these detailed steps to set it up:

Step 1: Activating Smart DNS

  1. Log in to your Surfshark account [here](https://account.surfshark.com).
  2. Navigate to the ‘Services’ tab.
  3. Find the Smart DNS section and activate it by clicking on ‘Activate’. This will generate a Smart DNS IP address.
  4. Note down the provided Smart DNS IP addresses (you will receive two for redundancy).

Step 2: Configuring Smart DNS on Your Device

The configuration process varies depending on the device. Below, you’ll find general steps that apply to most devices:

  • Go to your device’s network settings.
  • Select the option to manually configure your DNS server.
  • Input the Smart DNS IP addresses you previously noted.
  • Save your changes and restart your device.

Please check specific guides for different devices provided by Surfshark on their setup guides page.

Step 3: Confirming the Setup

Once you have configured Smart DNS:

  • Navigate back to your Surfshark profile.
  • Go to the Smart DNS section where you should see an option to verify setup.
  • Click ‘Verify’. If everything is configured correctly, your status should show as ‘Active’.

Changing Country Settings

Changing the country settings via Surfshark’s Smart DNS to access different content libraries involves updating your DNS according to given regional parameters:

  • You can choose DNS addresses that correspond to different regions (e.g., US, UK, Japan).
  • Once the DNS is set, your device will appear to be in the chosen location, allowing access to region-specific content.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Experiencing issues? Here are some common problems and their solutions:

  • DNS isn’t working: Verify that the DNS addresses have been entered correctly. Restart your device.
  • Content still blocked: Clear your device’s cache or try setting the DNS address again.
  • Slow connection speeds: While Smart DNS does not usually slow down connections, other network issues might hinder performance.

Important Considerations

Keep these points in mind when using Surfshark’s Smart DNS:

  • Smart DNS needs to be reactivated every time your IP changes.
  • The feature does not encrypt your traffic like a VPN does, so it should not be used as a privacy tool.

Conclusion and Best Use Cases

Surfshark’s Smart DNS is an excellent tool for those who wish to enjoy international content without the lag often associated with VPNs. For different user needs, the best practices are distinctly varied:

  • Entertainment Enthusiasts: For people who own devices like smart TVs and want seamless streaming of international media, using Smart DNS is advisable.
  • Gamers: Those using consoles where VPN apps aren’t available can benefit from faster connection speeds using Smart DNS.
  • Tech Savvy Users: Users who manage multiple devices and network configurations can use Smart DNS for easier setup without compromising on accessing geo-restricted content.

By understanding the setups, benefits, and limitations of Smart DNS, users can vastly enhance their online streaming and browsing experiences across different platforms and regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Smart DNS and how does it differ from a VPN?

Smart DNS is a service that helps bypass geographical restrictions without encrypting your internet traffic, which preserves your speed. Unlike VPNs, it does not change your IP address or provide privacy protections.

Can I use Surfshark’s Smart DNS on any device?

Yes, Surfshark’s Smart DNS can be configured on any device that allows manual DNS settings, including smart TVs, gaming consoles, and streaming devices.

Does Smart DNS slow down my internet connection?

No, Smart DNS does not typically slow down your internet connection as it does not encrypt your traffic or route it through remote servers like a VPN does.

Is Smart DNS safe to use?

While Smart DNS is safe for bypassing geographical blocks, it does not provide the same level of security and anonymity as a VPN because it does not encrypt your data.

How often do I need to reactivate Surfshark’s Smart DNS?

You need to reactivate Surfshark’s Smart DNS every time your IP address changes. This can happen with router restarts, ISP changes, or network updates.

We hope this guide has been helpful in setting up and utilizing Surfshark’s Smart DNS for changing country settings. If you have further questions, corrections, or wish to share your experience, feel free to engage in the comments below!

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