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Best DNS Server Software 2026
Facts read 20 Sep 2026 – 9 Oct 2026
DNS server software handles DNS services for networks, applications and hosted infrastructure. This list helps buyers compare tools by pricing, DNS roles, security support, management options and deployment targets.
The standings: top 10
| Name | Record score | Price from | Try it free | Runs on | Facts read |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 AdGuard | 5.1 | Free plan | Free plan | Android, iPhone & iPad, Windows, Mac | 27 Sep 2026 |
| 02 dnsmasq | 5.0 | Free plan | Free plan | Android, Mac, Linux, Self-hosted | 1 Oct 2026 |
| 03 PowerDNS Authoritative Server | 4.9 | $9,800 a year | Free plan | Linux, API, Self-hosted | 4 Oct 2026 |
| 04 Technitium DNS Server | 4.9 | Free plan | Free plan | Web, Windows, Mac, Linux | 30 Sep 2026 |
| 05 NSD (Name Server Daemon) | 4.8 | Free plan | Free plan | Windows, Mac, Linux, Self-hosted | 29 Sep 2026 |
| 06 Simple DNS Plus | 4.8 | $69 one-time | Free trial | Windows, API, Self-hosted | 7 Oct 2026 |
| 07 Knot DNS | 4.6 | Free plan | Free plan | Mac, Linux, Self-hosted | 3 Oct 2026 |
| 08 MaraDNS | 4.6 | Free plan | Free plan | Windows, Linux, Self-hosted | 8 Oct 2026 |
| 09 Pi-hole | 4.6 | Free plan | Free plan | Web, Linux, API, Self-hosted | 7 Oct 2026 |
| 10 PowerDNS Recursor | 4.6 | Free plan | Free plan | Mac, Linux, API, Self-hosted | 30 Sep 2026 |
Entries are ordered by newest release first, using figures makers publish; nothing is scored. Use the comparison fields to match a tool to your operating system, interface and DNS requirements.
02
dnsmasq
AndroidMacLinux+1 Record5.0 Visit
03
PowerDNS Authoritative Server
LinuxAPISelf-hosted Record4.9 Visit
04
Technitium DNS Server
WebWindowsMac+3 Record4.9 Visit
05
NSD (Name Server Daemon)
WindowsMacLinux+1 Record4.8 Visit
14
Blocky
MacLinuxAPI+1 Free plan Record4.4 Visit Blocky fits home networks, homelabs, and businesses needing self-hosted DNS filtering with client-specific policies.
19
EfficientIP SOLIDserver DDI
WebAPISelf-hosted — Record3.6 Visit It suits network and DevOps teams managing DNS, DHCP, and IP address resources across hybrid environments.
Before you choose
Compare free plans, trials and paid terms
The list includes software with free plans, open-source pricing notes and paid products with pricing on request. Check the pricing model and the published paid-from figure before planning a rollout.
A free trial is available from haneWIN DNS Server. Confirm trial terms with the maker before adopting a paid product.
Match DNS roles and security features
Compare support for authoritative DNS and recursive DNS against the role your network needs. Check DNSSEC support and encrypted DNS when signing or protected queries matter.
The comparison fields call out these capabilities separately, so a product can be reviewed against the functions you require.
Check supported platforms
Supported targets listed for this category include self-hosted deployments, Linux, macOS, API access, Windows and web interfaces. Match the platform entry to your operating environment.
A product may list a web, API or self-hosted target rather than a desktop operating system. Review the supported-platform field before installation.
Review management and license terms
Use the management-interface field to see how administration is presented. Check the license model when open-source access, redistribution or commercial terms affect your choice.
Questions
What does this DNS software list compare?
It compares free plan, paid-from details, authoritative DNS, recursive DNS, DNSSEC, encrypted DNS, license model, management interface and supported platforms.
Which pricing models appear?
The list includes free plans, open-source pricing notes and paid software with pricing on request. haneWIN DNS Server lists a free trial.
Which platforms are represented?
Listed platform types include self-hosted, Linux, macOS, API, Windows and web.
Can I find free DNS server software?
Yes. Acrylic DNS Proxy, BIND 9, Blocky, CoreDNS, djbdns and dnsmasq list free plans or open-source pricing notes.
Which product lists a free trial?
haneWIN DNS Server lists a free trial and does not list a free plan.
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