This is right on the boarder of my computer knowledge, so if anyone replies, please make your explanation as basic as possible.

I have chosen to use Google's DNS server by manually entering 8. 8. 8. 8 and 8. 8. 4. 4 as my prefered DNS server in the adapter properties.

I have no problem doing this and I have no problem with any possible privacy issues using Google's DNS server.

I notice when I connect to a VPN, the DNS server address changes.

Is this normal? I require the VPN to change my IP address, not my DNS server. Is it a case of you can't have one without the other?

After I disconnect the VPN, it reverts back to using my ISP's DNS server and Google's DNS server address is no longer there in the adapter properties.

I think this is also happening when I make a Skype call, without the VPN connected.

How can my selected DNS server be changed by the VPN, Skype or my ISP, once I have checked the box "Use the following DNS server address" and clicked ok?

I have only done this for IPv4 and not IPv6. Not that I know the difference.

It's not a huge deal, because I just manually re-enter my prefered settings in again, which isn't hard, but I have to do it often. I know when I have to do it, because immediately pages are slower to load and sometimes don't load at all.

Am I doing something wrong?

Is there a way that Google can remain my DNS server, regardless of what software I engage?

Any explanation appreciated.

KH

I forgot to ask, after entering Google's DNS server address, should I also check the box "Validate these settings upon exit?"

I have just been clicking on "Ok" and exiting out.

When I go back in to check, the settings are there, but do these setting need the "validate" box checked?

The DNS settings should not dissappear when you typed them in manually so I don't know why this is happening. I use several DNS adresses myself but I have to change them manually every time.

When the VPN connection is created a synthetic (software) adaptor is created at the same time specifically for that particular VPN connection. That adaptor obtains it's IP settings, including DNS from the DHCP server at your VPN provider. Once you are connected to the VPN those settings override whatever you have set on the hardware adaptor.

To change the DNS settings for a specific VPN connection go to Network and Sharing Center, then Change Adaptor Settings, find your VPN connection and edit the DNS settings in IPv4 there.

Try using a static IP on your LAN.

Yes, what #4 said.

In my VPN's software, there is the option "DNS leak prevention"

When I check this box, the software assigns a static IP address and resets the DNS servers.

When I turn off the VPN and connect to the net via my ISP no addresses can be resolved because the servers are unreachable outside the VPN's system.

Sounds like this is what's happening to you.

This is normal behaviour whew you use a vpn all networking configuration like ip and dns are suppjied by them so dont worry

Thanks to those who replied.

I'm still playing around with the adapters and DNS server addresses. I thought there was only one adapter for all the connections.

It's a paid VPN so I might email their support as well and see what they say.