DNS Benchmark
Software that allows you to analyze and compare the performance and reliability of up to 200 DNS servers.
Description
DNS Benchmark is a free and lightweight software for analyzing and comparing the performance and reliability of up to 200 DNS servers (nameservers) simultaneously. It allows users to optimize the speed and security of their internet connections by selecting the best DNS servers based on their location and specific needs.
Main Objective
DNS Benchmark conducts a detailed analysis of the operational performance (speed) and reliability of DNS servers, allowing users to identify which servers are best suited for their geographic location. It tests the DNS servers currently configured on the user's system and compares them with an integrated list of alternative public DNS servers, helping to determine if it is worthwhile to switch to faster or more reliable options.
How It Works
- Initialization:
- When run in its default configuration, the program automatically detects the DNS servers configured on the system and adds them to a pre-existing list of alternative public servers.
- Each server is "characterized" to assess its suitability, including tests for redirect behavior (whether it returns errors for invalid domains or redirects to commercial pages).
- Performance Testing:
- The software measures the response time of the DNS servers in three scenarios:
- Cache Queries: Time to resolve domains already stored in the resolver's cache.
- No Cache Queries: Time to resolve subdomains not stored in the cache.
- Dotcom Queries: Time to query the resolvers responsible for .com domains.
- Uses a list of the 50 most popular domains on the internet and also tests non-existent domains to evaluate reliability and behavior.
- The software measures the response time of the DNS servers in three scenarios:
- Results:
- During the test, it displays dynamically updated bar graphs and a table with response times.
- After completion, it provides a statistical analysis and a summary in plain language, suggesting adjustments to the system (such as reordering DNS servers or switching to better alternatives).
Main Features
- Compatibility: Works on all versions of Windows (from 95 to 11) and in Wine environments (Linux and macOS).
- Portability: Does not require installation, is lightweight (169 KB), and is coded in assembly language for maximum accuracy and efficiency.
- Customization: Allows users to replace the default list of 50 domains and use custom DNS server lists via .INI files.
- Advanced Analysis:
- Checks reliability (response loss) and protection against re-binding (blocking non-routable private IPs).
- Supports DNSSEC authentication testing (DNS security).
- Visualization: Scalable bar graphs and detailed tables, with export options in CSV, BMP, or PNG.
- Automation: Supports background execution, automatic logging, and integration with Task Scheduler.
Advantages
- Relevant Location: Emphasizes that the performance of DNS servers varies according to the user's location, making personalized tests more accurate than generic recommendations.
- Practical Conclusions: Provides clear, data-driven suggestions to improve the system's DNS configuration.
- Flexibility: Advanced users can adjust parameters, such as domain or server lists, for specific cases.
Limitations
- Focused exclusively on DNS servers, it does not address other aspects of the network (such as overall latency or bandwidth).
- Interface and reports may seem technical for less experienced users, despite the simplified conclusions.
In summary, DNS Benchmark is a powerful, compact, and practical tool for anyone looking to optimize their online experience by choosing DNS servers based on actual performance and reliability, with the added benefit of being completely free and portable.
Screenshot
Technical Specifications
Version: 1.3.6
Size: 159.03 KB
License: Free
Language: English
Platform: Windows
File Type: EXE
SHA-256: ab42c94fc03ddbf446319772518b229d7b2e2546fdddaae7c01abe0fa8a02be1
Developer: GRC
Category: Internet/Utilities & Tools
Updated: 03/05/2025Related
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