Use OpenDNS to Avoid Blocked Websites
Some Internet Service Providers (ISP) block various websites preventing you from visiting them. An easy workaround can put you back in control of which websites you want to visit.
OpenDNS, what is it exactly?
A DNS (Domain Name Server) is like a phonebook. Whenever you type in a domain name in the address bar of your browser, a query is being sent to a DNS. The DNS replies with the IP address to the domain name.
When an ISP blocks a website, the DNS record has just been deleted. So when you want to access example.com, the DNS doesn't give you an IP address.
OpenDNS is a free DNS away from your ISP. To use OpenDNS you just need to configure it in Windows' Control Panel. No extra software is needed.
Configure OpenDNS
It takes only five simple steps to configure OpenDNS.
Open the Control Panel and pick »Network and Internet Connections«:
Pick »Network Connections«:
Right click on your local area network connection and pick »Properties«:
Mark »Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)« and click on the »Properties« button:
Select »Use the following DNS server addresses« and type in the two IP addresses for OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220. Click »OK« and you are done:
You might want to restart Windows in order to apply the new settings.
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This article was last edited January 30, 2007 by Chris Hansen.