How to change your DNS settings in Australia

Why changing your DNS matters

By default, your modem sends every DNS query — every website lookup your devices make — to your ISP's own DNS servers. This lets your ISP log every domain you visit, even when you're using HTTPS. Switching to an independent, privacy-focused DNS resolver cuts that data off at the source. It won't make you invisible, but it removes one of the most routine and comprehensive forms of ISP tracking.

Which DNS servers to use

Two options stand out for Australian users. Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) commits to deleting query logs within 24 hours and is independently audited. Quad9 (9.9.9.9) is operated by a Swiss non-profit and also blocks known malicious domains. Either is a significant improvement over your ISP's default. Use these settings in the steps below:

1. Cloudflare — Primary: 1.1.1.1 / Secondary: 1.0.0.1
2. Quad9 — Primary: 9.9.9.9 / Secondary: 149.112.112.112

Telstra Smart Modem 3 — step by step

The Smart Modem 3 (also called the Arcadyan LH1000) uses a browser-based admin panel. You'll need to be connected to your home network.

1. Open a browser and go to 192.168.0.1
2. Log in — the default username is admin. The default password is printed on the label on the underside of the modem.
3. Click Advanced in the top navigation bar.
4. Under the Network section, select LAN.
5. Find the DNS Server fields. There will be a Primary DNS and Secondary DNS field.
6. Enter your chosen DNS servers (e.g. Primary: 1.1.1.1 / Secondary: 1.0.0.1 for Cloudflare).
7. Click Apply or Save at the bottom of the page.
8. Restart the modem using the physical power button or the Reboot option in the admin panel.
9. Once restarted, visit 1.1.1.1/help (if using Cloudflare) to confirm the DNS is working correctly.

If you can't reach 192.168.0.1, try 192.168.1.1. If neither works, the gateway address is shown on the modem label.

Telstra Smart Modem 4 — step by step

The Smart Modem 4 (Arcadyan LH2000) has a slightly different interface layout but the same process.

1. Open a browser and go to 192.168.0.1
2. Log in with username admin and the password from the modem label.
3. Select the Settings tab at the top.
4. Choose Network from the left sidebar, then LAN.
5. Locate the DHCP DNS fields — these are labelled DNS Server 1 and DNS Server 2.
6. Enter your chosen DNS addresses (e.g. 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1).
7. Click Save Changes.
8. Reboot the modem from Settings → Device → Reboot, or by switching it off and on.
9. After reboot, confirm DNS is resolving correctly at 1.1.1.1/help or by running nslookup cloudflare.com in a terminal.

Telstra Smart Modem 4 firmware updates occasionally reset the DNS settings. If you notice the setting has reverted, reapply it after any firmware update.

Using a different modem?

The general process is the same on most modems: log in to the admin panel at your gateway IP, find the LAN or DHCP settings, and update the DNS server fields. The gateway IP and admin password are usually printed on the modem itself. If your modem isn't listed here, the steps above will give you a good starting point.

Don't see your modem model? We're building out this guide. Email hello@staysafewhenonline.com with your modem model and we'll add instructions.