DNS Speed Test

Why Change DNS on Amazon Echo

Amazon Echo devices rely heavily on DNS for every voice command, every smart home request, and every music stream. When you say "Alexa, play music," the device resolves DNS to reach Amazon's servers. A slow DNS server adds latency to every interaction.

Amazon Echo devices use the DNS servers provided by your Wi-Fi router, which usually means your ISP's DNS. ISP DNS servers are often slow and can cause delays in voice response times. Changing to a faster DNS can make Alexa respond quicker and reduce connection issues with smart home devices.

Echo devices do not have a built-in interface to change DNS directly. You can change it through the Alexa app on newer models, or the most reliable method is to change DNS on your router, which affects all Echo devices on your network.

Before You Start

Choose your DNS provider. These work best for Echo devices:

• Cloudflare — 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1. Fastest response times.
• Google — 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4. Works well with Amazon services.
• Quad9 — 9.9.9.9 and 149.112.112.112. Blocks malicious domains.

You will need your Amazon account credentials and the Alexa app installed on your phone. If you choose the router method, you will need your router's admin login.

Method 1: Change DNS via Alexa App

Newer Echo devices with Fire OS allow DNS changes through the Alexa app. This works on Echo (4th gen and later), Echo Dot (4th gen and later), and Echo Show devices.

1. Open the Amazon Alexa app on your phone.
2. Tap Devices at the bottom right.
3. Select Echo & Alexa then choose your device.
4. Tap Settings (gear icon).
5. Scroll down and select Device Options.
6. Tap Wi-Fi Network or Network Settings.
7. Tap Advanced Settings or Edit next to your network.
8. Set DNS to Manual.
9. Enter your primary DNS address. For Cloudflare: 1.1.1.1.
10. Enter your secondary DNS address: 1.0.0.1.
11. Tap Save. The Echo will reconnect to Wi-Fi.

Not all Echo models support DNS changes through the app. Older models like Echo (1st and 2nd gen) and Echo Dot (1st and 2nd gen) do not have this option. If you do not see a DNS or Advanced Settings option, use the router method below.

Method 2: Change DNS on Your Router

This is the most reliable method. It changes DNS for all Echo and Alexa devices on your network at once.

1. Open a browser on a computer or phone connected to your Wi-Fi.
2. Type your router's IP address in the address bar. Common addresses: 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.
3. Log in with your router admin credentials.
4. Find DNS Settings under WAN, Internet, or DHCP settings.
5. Change DNS from Automatic to Manual.
6. Enter your primary DNS address. For Google: 8.8.8.8.
7. Enter your secondary DNS address: 8.8.4.4.
8. Save changes and restart your router.
9. Restart your Echo devices by unplugging them for 10 seconds and plugging them back in.

The router method is also better for households with multiple Echo devices, smart plugs, Fire Sticks, and other Amazon devices. One change covers everything.

Best DNS Servers for Amazon Echo

Verify Your DNS Settings

After changing DNS, say "Alexa, what time is it?" or "Alexa, what's the weather?" and note the response time. A faster DNS should make Alexa respond more quickly.

For router changes, check your router's admin page under WAN or status to confirm the new DNS addresses are active. You can also use a computer on the same network to test your DNS at 1.1.1.1/help.

If Alexa stops responding or loses connection after changing DNS, revert to automatic DNS and try a different provider. Some networks with strict security may block external DNS queries.

Frequently Asked Questions