iOS - Change DNS Servers (Wi-Fi Only)

There are two ways to change the DNS settings on an iOS device: in the iOS device settings or in the PIA app. 

Important: The device settings method only works for Wi-Fi networks. iOS does not offer a way to set a custom DNS for cellular data.

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Change DNS in iOS Device Settings

This method changes the DNS server for a specific Wi-Fi network at the device level.

  1. Open the iOS Settings app, then select Wi-Fi.
iPhone Settings showing the connected Wi-Fi network.
  1. Select the (i) next to the connected Wi-Fi network.
Wi-Fi settings showing the information button for the connected network.
  1. Scroll down and select Configure DNS.
Wi-Fi network details with the Configure DNS option highlighted
  1. Select Manual and remove any existing DNS servers listed. 
iPhone Configure DNS screen showing Manual DNS selected.
  1. Select Add Server to enter the preferred DNS address (for example, 8.8.8.8), then select Save.
iPhone Configure DNS screen with the Save button highlighted.

Note: This setting applies only to the Wi-Fi network selected above. It needs to be repeated separately for each Wi-Fi network where the custom DNS should apply.

Change DNS in the PIA App

  1. In the PIA app, select the three horizontal lines in the top-left corner, then select Settings.
PIA app menu with the Settings option highlighted.
  1. Go to Network > DNS. 

PIA Network settings showing the DNS option.

  1. Choose either PIA DNS or Custom DNS.
PIA DNS settings showing Custom DNS and custom options
  1. The app displays a warning that a non-PIA DNS may expose DNS traffic. If this is acceptable, select OK.
Custom DNS warning dialog displayed with the OK button highlighted.
  1. If Custom DNS is selected, enter values in Primary DNS and Secondary DNS, then select Update. Reconnect to the VPN to apply the changes.
Custom DNS screen with a primary DNS address entered and Update highlighted.

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