how to solve dns server problem in windows 10

DNS Server Not Responding – How to Fix the Error in Windows 10

I think it's safe to say that the vast majority of professionals depend on the internet these days.

So being denied access to the internet when you are trying to mine nuggets of valuable information from your go-to web sites can be quite an ordeal. Especially when you are under pressure to complete a piece of urgently required work.

One particularly unwelcome cause of being denied access to the internet is the “DNS Server Not Responding” error. It’s like that old fable where a troll sits under a bridge and says “You shall not pass!”, or something about gobbling up those that wish to cross the bridge.

I’m happy to tell you that you should be able to defeat the troll and cross the bridge to internet access joy by following the simple trouble shooting steps discussed in this article.

What is the "DNS Server Not Responding" Error?

The “DNS Server Not Responding” error is a fairly common issue and is generally easy to fix. There are many reasons why this issue may occur. But fundamentally it is caused because the DNS server that is contacted during the processes of loading a web page is unable to find the site that contains the web page that you have requested.

This article explores what may have triggered this issue to occur and how you may go about fixing the issue.

Firstly, I think it is a good idea to gain at least a basic understanding of the “DNS Server Not Responding” error. To do this, let’s first understand DNS.

DNS stands for Domain Name System. A simple explanation of DNS is that it is a decentralised storage of human readable internet addresses, like the ones with which you will almost certainly be familiar (for example www.amazon.com or www.netlix.com).

The DNS maps these human readable URLs to their appropriate IP (Internet Protocol) addresses.

IP addresses are much less human readable, but are essential for the inner workings of the internet. IP addresses uniquely identify computers on the internet. The IP address associated with the URL, www.netflix.com, might for example, look like this, 69.53.224.255.

It is clearly easier for you to remember “ www.netflix.com ", rather than a string of numbers delimited by full stops, when you wish to access your favourite content on Netflix. So the DNS facilitates this for you, so that you don’t have to remember or manually lookup unfriendly strings of numeric data every time you wish to access a web site.

The common analogy to explain DSN is a telephone directory. Basically, as you would look up a telephone number using the name of the person you wish to call in a telephone directory, a similar look up is performed when you type in the URL (like www.amazon.com) of the web site you wish to view within your browser.

Thankfully you don’t have to manually look up the corresponding IP address for www.amazon.com, as this is performed behind the scenes for you automatically.

So the appropriate IP address is retrieved automatically every time you type in a URL into your browser. This IP address is then used to contact the appropriate server that hosts the relevant web site associated with the URL you have entered into your browser.

When the “DNS Server Not Responding” error occurs, this means that the decentralised naming systems responsible for automatically looking up the appropriate IP address based on the relevant hostname that you entered into you browser fails to respond.

There are many reasons why this error occurs, but fortunately there are also many solutions available to you to fix the issue.

An easy solution may be to simply change the web browser you are using or even simpler still, simply restart your computer. Yup, simply turning it off and then turning it on again could fix the issue.

However, if you are not so lucky and the problem still persists, don’t despair – there are many steps that you can take to find out the cause of the issue and subsequently fix it.

In this article you will learn a number of possible solutions to the “DNS Server Not Responding” error.

How to Fix "DNS Serger Not Responding"

Below, I've listed out the ways that you can try using to fix the “DNS Server Not Responding” error. The subsequent sections of this article provide details on each of these methods:

Use a Different Web Browser

Try Accessing a Web Site with a Different Device
Restart your Router

Investigate Possible Network Issues

Manually Set your DNS Server

Clear the DNS Cache

Disable internet protocol version 6.

Temporarily Deactivate your Firewall and Disable your Antivirus Software
Reset your DNS Settings

Update the Network Adapter Driver

Disable all Network Connections Except the Connection you are Using to Access the Internet

Restart your Computer in Safe Mode

A potential solution to the “DNS Server not Responding” issue that's really simple is to try accessing the relevant website using a different browser.

If, for example, you are using Microsoft Edge or Mozilla Firefox as your browser at the time that the issue occurs, try using a different browser like Google Chrome to access the relevant website.

If using a different browser solves the problem, then make the browser that works your default browser. But if the issue still persists, then we at least know that the browser you have been using is not the source of the issue and our investigation into finding a solution to the DNS Server not Responding” issue must continue…

Try Accessing a Website With a Different Device

Try to use a different device connected to your home network to access the website you were trying to access when you received the error.

For example, use Wi-Fi from your mobile phone to access the relevant web site. If the issue persists, you know that the issue isn’t just with your primary device and the problem may have something to do with your router.

Restart Your Router

The “DNS Server not Responding” issue may occur simply due to data traffic. It may be that simply restarting your router can fix this issue.

You can restart your router by pressing the power button on your router. You can then unplug your router's power cable. Wait for about 30 seconds then plug your router into the power outlet again and press the power button to restart it.

Running network diagnostics may point to network issues as the root cause of the issue.

Running Network Diagnostic is very simple on a Windows 10 OS. You can do this by following these steps:

Open Control Panel. One way to do this is press the Windows Key + R to activate the “Run” box, then type “control” in the text box presented in the “Run” box and hit the enter key.

Select the Network and Internet option presented within the Control Panel window.
Click the Network and Sharing Center option from within the “Network and Internet” window.
Click the Troubleshoot problems option presented under the "Change your network settings” heading within the “Network and Sharing Center” window.
Click Additional troubleshooters -> Internet Connections -> Run the troubleshooter

The next step is to wait for the troubleshooter task to finish. If you are presented with any error messages, simply follow the steps on how to fix the relevant network issue.

Manually Set Your DNS Server

The source of your issue may be that your DNS server is down. In this case you’ll be pleased to know that you are able to manually change your DNS server.

You can change your DNS server to, for example, Googles Public DNS or CloudFlare’s public DNS. To change your DNS server, follow these steps:

Invoke your Control Panel. One way to invoke your Control Panel is to activate your Start Menu and search for the Control Panel.
In the Control Panel window click the Network and Internet option.
In the Network and Internet window, click the Network and Sharing Center option.
On the Network and Sharing Center window click on your active connection. For example, click the “ethernet” option if this is the connection currently being used or click the “Wi-Fi” option if it is clear that this is your active connection.
In the dialog box that is presented to you, click the “Properties” button.
In the dialog presented to you, you’ll see a list is presented under the “The connection uses the following items” heading.
In this list, select the list item labelled “Internet protocol version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” then click the “Properties” button.

You will be presented with another dialog box where you’ll see two fields. One will be labelled “Preferred DNS Server”, and the other which is directly under this field will be labelled “Alternate DNS Server”.
First click the Use the following DNS server addresses radio button.
To use Googles Public DNS server, enter 8.8.8.8 in the field labelled “Preferred DNS Server” and enter 8.8.4.4 into the field labelled “Alternate DNS Server”.

You are also able to use CloudFlare’s DNS server for the same purpose. CloudFlare’s DNS address is simply 1.1.1.1
Once you have entered your desired DNS server settings, ensure that the “Validate settings upon exit” checkbox is checked.
Click the “OK” button to save your new DNS server settings.
Restart your computer.

You are able to flush the DNS cache which may resolve the “DNS Server not Responding” issue. This action will clear IP addresses and other DNS related data from your cache.

You can clear the DNS cache by running a command using your command prompt.

One way to invoke the command prompt is to press Window Key + R to invoke the “Run” box. Type “cmd” within the “Run” box and press shift+ctrl+enter to run the command prompt as an administrator.

At the command prompt, type in the following command: “ipconfig /flushdns” and them press the enter key. If the command has executed successfully, you'll see the appropriate message in the command window.

At the time of writing this article, Internet Protocol Version 6 is the latest version of the internet protocol. Disabling the Internet Protocol Version 6 will not have detrimental effects on your computer’s operations, but it's been known to fix the “DNS Server not Responding” issue.

To disable the Internet Protocol version 6 on a Windows 10 operating system, just follow these steps:

Go to Control Panel -> Network and Internet -> Network and Sharing Center
Click on the relevant connection, for example “Wi-Fi”
Click the “Properties” button on the dialog that is presented to you.
In the list presented under the “This connection uses the following items” heading, uncheck the item labelled “Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)”.

Press the “OK button”

Temporarily Deactivate your Firewall and Disable Antivirus

If your firewall is Defender, you can follow these steps to disable it:

To open control panel, press Windows Key + R to activate the “Run” box, then type “control” in the text box presented in the “Run” box and hit the enter key.
In the top right hand text box, type in “win”

An option labelled "Windows Defender Firewall” should appear in the search results. Click the “Windows Defender Firewall” option.
Click the “Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall” option.

Click the “Change settings” button.

From the list presented to you within the dialog box that has just been invoked, find the browser that you are using, for example Google Chrome. Then make sure that both the private and public checkboxes next to the relevant item are checked.

Once you've done this, try to access the relevant website using the relevant browser and see if the issue has been fixed.

There is a chance that your firewall was preventing you from accessing external data through your browser.

Note that it is not recommended to leave your operating system unprotected by reliable antivirus software indefinitely. Disabling your antivirus software in this instance is only recommended for testing if the relevant antivirus software is the cause of the “DNS Server not Responding” issue.

To temporarily turn off Microsoft Defender antivirus protection, follow these steps:

Select Start and then type in "Windows Security” in order to search for the relevant application.
Select Windows Security App from the search results.
Go to Virus & Threat Protection .
Under Virus & threat protection settings select Manage settings.
Switch Real-time protection off.

Attempt to access the relevant website through the relevant browser to test if the “DNS Server not Responding” issue still occurs.

Reset DNS Settings

To reset your DNS Settings, follow these steps:

Run the command prompt as an administrator. To do this activate the “Run” box by pressing Windows key + R .
In the run box type “cmd” and press shift + ctrl + enter
Type the following commands in the command prompt. After entering each command press the enter key, so that each command is run individually.

ipconfig /registerdns

ipconfig /release

Ipconfig /renew

netsh winsock reset

Once you have run these commands, close the command prompt and restart your computer.

You can manually update your network adapter driver, but it is much easier to automate this task.

You can automate this through the use of free software like “Driver Easy” (https://www.drivereasy.com/download-free-version/). Simply download the free version of this software.

Make sure that before you run the free version of the Driver Easy software that you create a system restore point. This provides you with insurance, so in the unlikely event that you encounter a nasty surprise that adversely effects your computer, that you are able to return your Windows OS back to the state that it was in before you ran the Driver Easy software and encountered an unexpected issue.

To use the Driver Easy software, follow these steps:

Run the software
Click the “Scan Now” button
Press the “Update” button next to any outdated drivers.

Disable all Network Connections Except for the Connection that you are Using

Disabling the additional network connections you may have setup on your computer (other than, for example, the Wi-Fi connection that you are using to access the internet) might fix the “DNS Server not Responding” issue.

To disable the relevant network connection, follow these steps:

Firstly you must access your Network Connections. To access your Network Connections, press Windows Key + R to invoke the “Run” box
In the “Run” box type in “ncpa.cpl” and press enter.
Right click the relevant network connection and select “Disable” from the relevant context menu. Repeat this action until all connections except for the Wi-Fi connection you are using are disabled.

When you start your computer in Safe Mode, this means the Windows operating system loads with a limited set of drivers and files. This can help you diagnose what is causing your “DNS Server not Responding” issue through a process of illumination (as it were).

So to start your PC in Safe Mode, follow these steps:

Press the Windows Key + I to open Settings.
Select Update & Security -> Recovery
Under Advanced startup , select Restart Now
Once your PC has startup to the “Choose an option” screen, select Troubleshoot -> Advanced options -> Startup Settings -> Restart
Once your PC has restarted you’ll see a list of options
Select 5 or press F5 for Safe Mode with Networking.

Try to access the web site that resulted in you getting the “DNS Server not Responding” issue. If the problem does not occur in safe mode this means that additional software may be the cause of the issue.

You can uninstall any additional software from your PC, one by one, and then test to see if the issue still occurs. If the issue does not occur after uninstalling particular software, this means that it is likely that this software was interfering with your internet access.

The “DNS Server not Responding” issue is relatively common and thankfully it is also relatively easy to fix.

It can be incredibly inconvenient to be denied access to the internet but hopefully the potential solutions outlined in this article will help you to once again have access to your favorite web sites.

How-To Geek

How to fix a "dns server is not responding" error on windows.

Get around your PC's DNS problems with these methods.

Quick Links

Why do you get a "dns server not responding" error, fixes for a dns server not responding error on windows, key takeaways.

To resolve DNS issues on Windows, try opening your site in a different web browser, restarting your router, disabling your VPN, or running the "Internet Connections" troubleshooter. Other options include deleting your DNS cache, trying another device on the same network or another DNS server, updating your network adapter drivers, turning off your antivirus or IPv6, deactivating other network adapters, and booting your PC in safe mode.

DNS servers' unavailability causes your Windows PC to display a "DNS Server Is Not Responding" error. Various items can cause your DNS servers not to work. Luckily, it's easy to fix many of those items and resolve your problem. Here's how to do just that.

A "DNS server not responding" error appears when the server your device uses to resolve domain names is down or otherwise can't be reached. If that's confusing, let's review the function of a DNS server.

When you type in a domain name in your PC's web browser, your web browser asks your DNS server to translate your domain name to an IP address . Your browser then uses this IP address to locate your site on the internet and let you access its contents.

Related: What Is DNS, and Should I Use Another DNS Server?

When your DNS server is down or is experiencing an issue, your web browser can't retrieve your site's IP address , resulting in an error message. Many problems can cause your DNS servers to go down, and other issues could simply prevent your PC from connecting to your specific DNS servers.

Some of those potential problems are a malfunctioning router, a faulty web browser, an incompatible VPN app, a corrupt DNS cache, and more.

Related: How Do IP Addresses Work?

To resolve your Windows DNS error and access your sites, use the methods below that fix the underlying items causing the problem. Once you've resolved the issues, your DNS error will be gone, and the sites you're trying to reach will open just as they should.

Use a Different Web Browser

When you encounter a DNS issue in a web browser, the first thing to do is try accessing your site in another web browser . This helps you find out if your issue is device-specific or browser-specific.

To do that, launch a different web browser on your PC and try to access your site. If your site loads in this browser, your previous browser likely had issues. In this case, apply some fixes like clearing your previous browser's cache ( Chrome , Firefox , Edge ), turning off your browser's extensions ( Chrome , Firefox , Edge ), and resetting your web browser ( Chrome , Firefox , Edge ).

If you get the same error in your other browser, read on to discover more fixes.

Related: Why You Should Use Multiple Web Browsers

Reboot Your Router

Your router may be acting up, causing your PC not to reach your DNS servers. In this case, give your router a reboot to possibly fix your issue .

You can restart most routers by pressing the Power button on them. If yours hasn't got a Power button, unplug it from the power socket to turn the router off and (after at least 10 seconds) back on. Then, launch your web browser and try to access your site.

Related: Why Rebooting Your Router Fixes So Many Problems (and Why You Have to Wait 10 Seconds)

Turn Off Your VPN

Your VPN app transmits your data via a third-party server, letting you bypass your ISP's restrictions. Sometimes, this mechanism causes issues with your DNS servers, leading to errors like the one you're experiencing.

To verify that, turn off your VPN service and see if your site loads. If it does, reach out to your VPN provider to seek a permanent solution.

Use the Internet Connections Troubleshooter

Windows has many troubleshooters to help you fix issues with your PC's various components. When you have trouble connecting to the internet , use your PC's Internet Connections troubleshooter to find and fix all the faults with your connection.

To run the troubleshooter on Windows 11, navigate to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other Troubleshooters. On the open page, next to "Internet Connections," click "Run."

If you're on Windows 10, head into Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional Troubleshooters. Click "Internet Connections" and choose "Run the Troubleshooter."

Follow the troubleshooter's instructions to detect and resolve your DNS issues.

Related: Internet Connection Not Working? 10 Troubleshooting Tips

Flush Your DNS Cache

Windows caches your DNS queries to help you quickly translate domain names to IP addresses. It's possible this cache has become corrupted, causing issues with your web browsers.

In this case, clear your bad DNS cache , and your issue will be resolved. Note that you don't lose any personal data when you do this.

To start, open the "Start" menu, find "Command Prompt", and launch the utility. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:

ipconfig /flushdns

Windows will clear your current DNS cache, and you're all set.

Use Another Device on the Same Network

To ensure your router configuration isn't the cause of the issue, use another device on your network and see if you can access your site on it. You can use any of your devices to do this, including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook, or any other machines.

Related: How to See Your Wi-Fi Password on Windows 11

If your site fails to load on your other device and you get the same DNS error, your router likely has an issue. In this case, speak to your internet service provider (ISP) for help. Another thing you can do is reset your router to the default settings , but you'll need your ISP's configuration to re-configure your router and make it work with your current internet company.

In case your site opens just fine on your other device, your Windows PC has a problem. In this case, read on to learn more fixes.

Change Your PC's DNS Servers

If your DNS servers are down or are experiencing technical glitches, that may be why you can't access sites on your PC. In this case, change the current DNS servers on your PC to fix your issue.

We've already written guides on how to change your DNS servers on Windows 11 and Windows 10 , so check them out to learn how to perform the procedure.

Update Your Network Adapter Drivers

Your network adapter drivers tell your physical adapter how to communicate with your PC. If these drivers are outdated or corrupted, that may be why Windows displays a DNS error message.

In this case, resolve your issue by updating your drivers . Do this by first right-clicking the "Start" menu and choosing "Device Manager."

Then, expand "Network Adapters," right-click your adapter, and choose "Update Driver."

Select "Search Automatically for Drivers" and download and install the available drivers.

Restart your PC, and try to access your site.

Related: How to Update Drivers on Windows 11

Temporarily Disable Your Antivirus

Your PC's antivirus program may be interfering with your browsing sessions, causing your browsers to display a DNS error message. Usually, this happens when your antivirus detects a potential threat in your browsers.

If you trust your site and your DNS servers, temporarily turn off your antivirus protection to see if you can then load your site. Check out our guide on how to turn off Microsoft Defender Antivirus to learn how to do that.

Make sure to turn real-time protection back on when you've checked your site.

Turn Off IPv6 on Your PC

IPv6 is the latest Internet Protocol version, which aims to fix many IP-related issues on your devices. Sometimes, when this protocol version is enabled, you can get errors like a DNS server not responding.

To fix that, disable IPv6 on your PC, and your issue will be resolved.

To turn off IPv6, head into Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Change Adapter Settings. Right-click your adapter and choose "Properties." Disable "Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)" and click "OK."

And that's it.

Related: Are You Using IPv6 Yet? Should You Even Care?

Disable Other Network Connections

Your computer might have other network connections, causing an issue with your DNS queries. If you don't use those other adapters, it's a good idea to turn them off to potentially resolve your problem.

To do that, navigate to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center. Find an unused adapter, right-click it, and choose "Disable."

Repeat the above step for each unused adapter to disable it on your PC.

Reboot Your PC in Safe Mode

With Windows' safe mode, you can turn on your computer by only loading the essential files. This helps you find out if a third-party app installed on your PC is causing the problem. And if that's the case, you can remove that app from your PC.

Check out our guide on how to use Windows' safe mode . When in safe mode, if your web browser can open your site without the DNS error message, your third-party apps are likely the culprit.

You can start fixing the issue by removing your recently installed apps . Feel free to uninstall any app that you think might be the cause of the issue.

And that's how you resolve a "DNS Server Is Not Responding" error on a Windows 11 or Windows 10 PC. Enjoy browsing your favorite sites!

Related: How to Fix "This Site Can't Be Reached" ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE in Chrome

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Recover or Replace a Malfunctioning Router or Modem

When you connect a device to your home network or a Wi-Fi hotspot with internet access, the internet connection may fail to work for a variety of reasons.

Instructions in this article apply to Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.

Reasons Why You Cannot Connect to a DNS Server

One class of failures are related to Domain Name System — the distributed name resolution service used by internet providers around the world. Windows 7, Windows 8.1 and Windows 10 computers may report the following error messages in the Troubleshooting Problems found window:

The device will not be able to reach the internet when these failure conditions occur. These DNS server errors may appear for any of several different reasons. Step-by-step network troubleshooting steps can be used to diagnose and repair the problem as described below.

How to Run Windows Network Troubleshooter in Windows 10

On Microsoft Windows PCs, Windows Network Diagnostics can be run to help diagnose internet connection problems. If you're not sure whether or not your computer is reporting DNS Server Not Responding errors, follow these steps:

Select Start and then choose Settings .

Select Network & Internet . The Network Status window will open.

Select Network Troubleshooter under Change Your Network Settings. Windows Network Diagnostics will open.

Follow the steps to begin and wait for the troubleshooting tests to complete. The wizard will offer customized diagnostic assessments based on the errors it thinks it finds, so each pass-through will differ for different people. Look in the Problems found section of the window for the error message to better identify potential root causes.

How to Run Windows Network Troubleshooter in Windows 7 or 8

Open the Control Panel.

Open the Network and Sharing Center .

Click the Troubleshoot problems under Change your Networking Settings.

Click Internet Connections . A new Internet Connections window appears.

Click Next .

Click Run the Troubleshooter.

Click Troubleshoot my connection to the Internet .

Wait for the troubleshooting tests to complete and look in the Problems found section of the window for the error message.

You should be done!

How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding Problems

To properly fix these internet connection failures requires first isolating the problem down to its root cause. The sections below each cover common causes of these failures:

Misbehaving internet provider

Malfunctioning TCP/IP or DHCP services

Overly aggressive antivirus software

Malfunctioning router or modem

If not confident that your internet connection issues are truly related to DNS, try general connection troubleshooting techniques first .

Resolving TCP/IP and DHCP Failures

It’s possible for the TCP/IP software inside a client device’s operating system to malfunction and set its DNS server addresses incorrectly. Rebooting a Windows computer often clears these temporary glitches. A more elegant solution involves running TCP/IP utility programs that perform the standard procedure to release and renew the Windows IP address settings .

Similarly, most TCP/IP networks use the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol service to assign IP addresses to clients. DHCP assigns not only the device's private IP address but also primary and secondary DNS server addresses. If DHCP is malfunctioning, a PC reboot is likely required to recover it.

Check to ensure both your device and the network router both have DHCP enabled. If either end of the connection is not using DHCP, internet connection errors normally result.

Handling DNS Provider Problems

Many people configure their home networks to automatically obtain DNS server addresses from their internet provider. When the provider's servers or network suffer an outage or are heavily loaded with traffic, their DNS services can suddenly stop working. Customers must wait until the provider fixes those problems before they can use the provider's DNS.

As an alternative to the private DNS servers supported by each provider, several providers, most notably Google and OpenDNS, offer free public DNS servers . A router administrator can switch their network's DNS setup over from a private to a public DNS configuration by manually entering the public DNS IP addresses into the router configuration settings.

DNS settings can also be applied on the Windows device itself through the Network and Sharing Center. However, this approach usually will not work as a permanent solution because devices normally obtain and override their local settings with those from the router through DHCP.

Avoiding Internet Blockages from Antivirus Programs

Antivirus programs that people install on their Windows PCs are designed to keep intruders out, but they also block internet access if they detect a misbehaving device.

Most antivirus programs work using special database files that the software vendors automatically update on a regular basis. PC users often don't realize when these install updates happen as they are triggered in the background and designed to not interrupt normal work.

Unfortunately, sometimes mistakes are made with these data updates that cause the antivirus program to believe a computer is infected when really it is a false alarm ( false positive test). These false positives can trigger Windows to suddenly start reporting DNS Server Not Responding errors.

To verify whether this is the cause for your device, temporarily disable the antivirus program and re-run the Windows Network Diagnostics. Then consult the antivirus vendor for either a new update or technical support. Although disabling antivirus does not work as a permanent solution, doing so to temporarily to troubleshoot the problem is normally (not always) safe.

A misbehaving broadband router or broadband modem can trigger these DNS error messages on home network devices. Restarting the router and modem will resolve intermittent router glitches, at least temporarily.

Routers and modems must eventually be replaced if they continue to exhibit failures. However, it is unlikely for either to fail in such a way that would cause DNS errors to be regularly generated. Failed routers and modems normally cannot power on at all or else generate errors related to the underlying network connection itself. If you connect to the router using a wired Ethernet port , try moving the Ethernet cable to use a different port instead.

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Restart your devices, change your dns settings, flush your dns cache, update your network drivers, router, and modem, turn off your vpn and firewall, contact your isp, 8 ways to fix 'dns server not responding' errors on a mac or pc.

You can fix a "DNS Server Not Responding" error by resetting your internet connection and computer.
If the error keeps appearing, you can also flush your DNS cache and change the DNS settings.
DNS errors might also come up if your ISP is having an outage.

DNS servers are like phonebooks – they help your computer find websites and load them properly. This means that if the DNS server stops responding, you won't be able to access any website or app.

Luckily, both Macs and PCs offer a few ways to fix "DNS Server Not Responding" issues. Here are eight ways to do it.

First, we need to figure out what's causing the issue: Is it your web browser, your computer, or your internet connection?

Using the same internet connection, try browsing the web using another browser. In other words, if you're using Google Chrome right now, try Microsoft Edge or Firefox instead. If the internet suddenly starts working, it means there's an issue with your original browser. Try clearing the cache , or uninstalling and reinstalling the app.

If it still doesn't work, try using another device. If the internet works on that device, the issue is coming from your computer. If you still run into internet problems, the issue is your connection.

Alternatively, try connecting to another internet signal on your computer. If the internet starts working, the issue is your connection; if it doesn't work, the issue is your computer.

Get closer to your internet router

It might seem too simple to be true, but a lot of DNS server issues are caused by weak internet signals. If you're too far away from the source of your internet connection – usually the router – your computer will have trouble reaching the DNS server.

Getting a stronger internet connection, either by moving closer to your internet router or removing obstructions, can solve this. You should also make sure that you're not taking up all your bandwidth by running too many websites or apps at once.

And if it's possible, consider connecting with an ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi. Ethernet connections are way more stable than wireless ones , meaning you're much less likely to have DNS issues.

Before we delve into the more complicated troubleshooting steps, try restarting all your devices: Your computer, your router, and your modem. You'd be surprised by how many issues this can fix.

You can restart most routers and modems by unplugging them for about ten seconds, then plugging back in.

Once everything is running again, open a web browser and head to a website. There's a good chance that things will work now.

A lot of internet issues can be fixed by changing the DNS settings on your computer. These settings control how your computer interacts with the internet connection, and if they're not set up correctly, it can cause problems.

Specifically, you'll want to make sure that the DNS server is being obtained automatically. Or if it's already automatic and you're having trouble, you'll want to set one manually.

In Windows 10 and 11

1. Open the Control Panel and click Network and Internet , then Network and Sharing Center , and then Change adapter settings .

2. Right-click on your Wi-Fi network and select Properties .

3. In the list that appears, double-click on the Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) option.

You'll be given a menu that lets you set your DNS server. There are two options that let you obtain the DNS server either automatically or manually.

4. Click whatever option isn't already selected. If you're switching from automatic to manual, you'll also need to enter two DNS servers.

5. Click OK to save the changes.

See if the internet works now. If it doesn't, go back to the Properties menu and do the same steps for the Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) option.

1. Open the System Preferences app and select Network .

2. Select the connection that you're trying to fix from the left sidebar, then click Advanced… in the bottom-right corner.

3. Select DNS from the tabs at the top.

4. Select the DNS Servers box and click the plus sign at the bottom, then enter a new DNS server you want to connect with.

5. Click OK to save your changes.

Most people know that every program and app has a cache, a small storage space for data that the app has loaded recently. Your DNS server has a cache too, which it uses to collect IP addresses and DNS records that you've connected with recently.

And just like other caches, letting the DNS cache get too full can cause problems. You can clear the DNS and refresh your IP address through the Command Prompt and Terminal apps.

1. Search your computer for "Command Prompt." When it appears in the results, right-click it and select Run as administrator .

2. In the Command Prompt window, type and submit these five commands in order. Type one of them, press Enter , and then wait a few moments before typing the next.

netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns

3. Restart your computer.

1. Search your computer for "Terminal" and open the app when it appears.

2. Type and submit the following code, without quotes: "sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder"

3. When prompted, enter your Mac's password. It won't look like you're typing anything, but don't worry, it's just hiding your password.

4. If you don't see any sort of response — Terminal just takes the command and gives you another blank entry line — it means it worked.

Even if you've just bought all your hardware, it's a good idea to check that everything is updated. There's a chance you might be using outdated software, which can lead to bugs.

First, your drivers. These are small pieces of software that tell the computer how to function . If you're using a Mac, all your drivers will update whenever you install a full computer update . But on a Windows PC, you'll likely need to update them separately.

You can do this by opening the Device Manager app, clicking the Network adapters tab, and right-clicking on your main internet driver. You'll likely have two of them, one for Wi-Fi and one for Ethernet (usually called the "Family Controller"). When you're asked how you want to search for drivers, pick the automatic option.

If that doesn't work, check your computer manufacturer's website to see if they offer drivers of their own. These might work better than the ones that come pre-installed.

Finally, you can also try uninstalling the driver and restarting your computer. This will force the driver to restart, which can clear away some issues.

When it comes to your router and modem, every model and brand has a different updating process. But in general, you'll probably need to log into your devices' settings pages using a web browser and update from there. Check the manual or call your ISP for exact steps.

This isn't as common, but if there's something standing between your computer and the open internet — say, a VPN or firewall — you can run into DNS issues.

Every VPN has a different method for turning it off, but look for a Disconnect option in the settings. You can also open the Network settings on your computer and disable all VPNs from there.

In Windows, you can disable the default firewall by searching for Windows Defender Firewall, then selecting Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off .

On a Mac, open the System Preferences app and select Security & Privacy . Click Firewall at the top, then select Turn Off Firewall . You might need to click the lock icon in the bottom-left corner first.

If you're using a third-party antivirus program, you might need to disable that app's firewall too.

Finally, you can pick up the phone and call your internet service provider. At the end of the day, they're the ones with total control over your internet service.

If none of these steps have worked, it might mean that your ISP is having an outage. Alternatively, they might have shut off your service due to unpaid bills, or might be throttling your connection because you hit a data cap. If you rent your internet equipment from the ISP, they can even send someone out to troubleshoot in person.

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How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding Problem

Last Updated: June 6, 2022 Tested

This article was co-authored by Luigi Oppido and by wikiHow staff writer, Jack Lloyd . Luigi Oppido is the Owner and Operator of Pleasure Point Computers in Santa Cruz, California. Luigi has over 25 years of experience in general computer repair, data recovery, virus removal, and upgrades. He is also the host of the Computer Man Show! broadcasted on KSQD covering central California for over two years. The wikiHow Tech Team also followed the article's instructions and verified that they work. This article has been viewed 5,572,319 times.

Are you getting DNS errors when you try to browse the web? If your web browser can't translate hostnames into IP addresses , you'll encounter a DNS error and won't be able to connect to websites—frustrating, right? But we're here to help! This wikiHow article will help you troubleshoot your connection, flush the DNS cache, reset your router, and perform other tasks that will help you get back to web browsing in no time.

Troubleshooting

Step 1 Try connecting with a different device.

Not being able to connect with the second device doesn't necessarily mean that the router is the problem.

Tip: If you're having trouble with a specific website, try accessing it using mobile data. If you still can't access the site, the issue is on the site's end.

If the issues are resolved, uninstalling and then reinstalling your old browser will likely fix the problem.

Step 3 Power cycle your modem and router.

Unplug your modem's power cable as well as your router's power cable.
Allow both your modem and your router to sit for at least 30 seconds.
Reconnect your modem and wait for it to come back online.
Reconnect your router to your modem and wait for it to come back online.

If you can connect to a web page while using Ethernet, the problem may stem from your router. You'll most likely need to reset it .
If you can't connect to a web page while connected via Ethernet, your DNS settings may be the problem.

Flushing the DNS Cache

If you're still experiencing connection issues, proceed to the next method.

You can also press ⌘ Command + Space to open Spotlight.

sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

You may have to enter your administrator password first.

Disabling Extra Connections

The most common cause for DNS issues is the existence of "Microsoft Virtual WiFi Miniport Adapter". [1] X Research source

On Windows, each icon on the page represents a connection.
On Mac, the connections are on the left side of the window.

Windows - Click Disable this network device at the top of the window.
Mac - Click the minus sign ( - ) at the bottom of the network window.

Editing the DNS Server

Step 1 Click your current connection's name.

If you don't see this window, click the Networking tab at the top of Wi-Fi Properties.

Luigi Oppido

Our Expert Agrees: If you restart your router and modem and you still don't have internet, go into the adapter settings for your device in your Control Panel or System Preferences, and double-click on your IPV4 settings. In that window, double-click on the TCP-IP settings and make sure everything is set to automatic. If it is and you're still not online, contact your ISP.

OpenDNS - Enter 208.67.222.222 .
Google - Enter 8.8.8.8 .

OpenDNS - Enter 208.67.220.220 .
Google - Enter 8.8.4.4 .

If your computer can connect, consider calling your Internet Service Provider to notify them about the DNS issues.
If you still can't connect, proceed to the next method.

Google - 8.8.8.8 or 8.8.4.4 .
OpenDNS - 208.67.222.222 or 208.67.220.220

Resetting the Router

Step 1 Find your router's "Reset" button.

You'll usually need a needle, a paperclip, or a similarly thin item to press the "Reset" button.
Resetting your router will also disconnect every device you have connected to the router.

If resetting the router does indeed resolve the DNS issues, consider picking up a newer router if yours is more than a couple of years old.

Community Q&A

Resetting your router periodically is a good way to prevent DNS issues from happening. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

After resetting your DNS cache, your computer will load websites a little bit slower the first time you visit them. This is because your computer is establishing and verifying a new DNS address for the site. Thanks Helpful 7 Not Helpful 6

↑ http://www.sevenforums.com/network-sharing/245874-dns-server-not-responding.html

About This Article

To fix a DNS server not responding problem, try reaching the site with another device like a phone, since if this works you’ll know that the issue is with your other device. Alternatively, try to visit the site using a different web browser, such as Firefox or Chrome. If this works, try uninstalling and reinstalling your original browser to solve the problem. You could also try power cycling your modem and router by disconnecting them and letting them sit for at least 30 seconds. Then, reconnect them to the power supply, wait for them to reload, and try the website again. As another option, try connecting your device to the router with an Ethernet cable, since if you can access the site via the Ethernet it shows you have a problem with your wireless router. If this is the case, reset your router to resolve the issue. For tips on how to flush the DNS cache, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Fix the “DNS Server Not Responding” Error on Windows and Mac

You can’t visit a website without first accessing a Domain Name Server (DNS) . In the process, you might be met with a message such as “DNS server not responding.” This means that the decentralized naming systems responsible for turning hostnames into IP addresses failed to respond.

There are a variety of reasons these types of DNS errors can occur. Fortunately, most of them have simple resolutions. In fact, fixing the issue could be as easy as restarting your computer or changing web browsers.

In this post, we’ll explain what the “DNS Server Not Responding” message means and some common causes for it. Then we’ll walk you through several solutions for how to fix it, both on Windows and macOS devices.

Let’s get started!

What Does “DNS Server Not Responding” Mean?

A DNS is a naming system that takes alphanumeric domain names (or “hostnames”) and turns them into numeric IP addresses. Essentially, DNS servers act as translators .

When you input a web address into your browser , it is forwarded to a DNS server from your router, where it’s then dissolved and returned as an IP address. However, if the DNS server is unable to properly complete this name resolution process, the end result is usually a message indicating that the DNS server is not responding.

“DNS Server Not Responding” means that your browser was unable to establish a connection to the internet. Typically, DNS errors are caused by problems on the user end, whether that’s with a network or internet connection, misconfigured DNS settings, or an outdated browser. They can also be attributed to a temporary server outage that renders the DNS unavailable.

Therefore, it’s possible that you might be able to resolve the problem simply by switching browsers. In other cases, you may need to disable connections, change DNS servers, or flush the DNS cache.

How to Fix the “DNS Server Not Responding” Error in Windows and macOS (11 Methods)

Now that you understand what this message means and are familiar with some potential causes, it’s time to get to work resolving it. Let’s take a look at eleven potential ways you can fix “DNS Server Not Responding” on Windows and Mac devices.

1. Switch to a Different Browser

The first step is to troubleshoot the issue by testing your DNS connections. Fixing this problem might be as simple as switching or updating your web browser.

How Do I Switch to a Different Browser?

To do this, try accessing the web from a different browser. For example, if your default browser is Safari or Google Chrome, visit the desired website from Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft Edge instead.

If switching browsers works, you’ll likely need to update your default browser to the latest version or uninstall and reinstall it. However, if you still see the “DNS Server Not Responding” message, you can rule out your browser as the source of the issue.

2. Connect With a Different Device

If your browser is not the problem, maybe your current device is. That is why it might be interesting to connect to a second device and access the site you’re unable to see.

How Do I Connect to a Different Device?

Grab your phone and try to access the site you’re having trouble with using the same network as before.

Still getting the “DNS Server Not Responding” error? Then this might indicate that your router is the issue here.

Not so sure about it? Connect to the site using your mobile data. If it works, you’ll have the answer that the problem is in fact on your end and not on the site’s end.

3. Start Your Computer in Safe Mode

If your operating system is not functioning properly, it can result in the “DNS Server Not Responding” error message. Therefore, you may want to try booting your Windows device in Safe Mode to see whether this resolves this issue.

Doing so will limit the files and resources used for running Windows, and can be an effective way to troubleshoot problems.

How Do I Start My Computer in Safe Mode?

To start your Windows 10 computer in Safe Mode, first select the Windows button , and then hover over the Power icon :

Next, while you’re holding down the Shift key, select Restart :

In the window that appears, click on Troubleshoot > Advanced . Under Advanced options , select Start-Up Settings , followed by Restart . More options will appear. You can press 4 or 5 to Enable Safe Mode or Enable Safe Mode with Networking respectively. Your computer will then restart in Safe Mode.

If you’re using Windows 7 or earlier, you can restart it in Safe Mode by going to Power > Restart . Then, while it’s booting up, hold down the F8 key .

The process is similar on macOS devices.

While the machine is restarting and booting up, hold down the Shift key . Once the Apple logo appears, you can release it. Your device will then start in Safe Mode.

Once your computer is in Safe Mode, try to access the website again. If there doesn’t seem to be a network connection issue, the source of the problem may be a third-party software or installation, such as an antivirus application.

4. Temporarily Disable Your Antivirus Software and Firewall

If switching browsers doesn’t resolve the “DNS Server Not Responding” issue, the next step is to temporarily deactivate your firewall . Antivirus software and firewalls are critical for safeguarding your devices, but they can sometimes cause issues that interfere with network connections.

How Do I Temporarily Disable My Antivirus Software and Firewall?

For Windows users, you can do this by going to your control panel and navigating to Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & Threat Protection > Manage Settings .

Mac users can find this option by navigating to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Firewall .

Once your firewall is deactivated, try visiting the website again from your browser. If this resolved the issue, you might consider switching antivirus programs or reconfiguring the settings of your existing application. Either way, remember to reactivate your firewall once you’re done.

5. Disable Secondary Connections

If disabling your antivirus software or firewall didn’t do the trick, another potential solution is to disable any secondary connections available on your device. You want to make sure that only the connection you’re currently using is active.

How Do I Disable Secondary Connections?

To do this in Windows, type “Network connections” into the search box of your desktop taskbar. Next, click on View network connections :

This will bring you to the Network Connections page. Any connections you’re not currently using will have a red ( X ) next to them. Right-click on one, and then select Disable :

Repeat this for any other connections that are not currently active. When you’re done, restart your browser and try visiting the website again.

If you’re using a macOS, you can do this by clicking on the Apple icon, then navigating to System Preferences > Network . Your connections will be listed on the left side of the window.

To disconnect or disable one, select it, and then click on the ( – ) sign at the bottom of the window.

6. Disable the Windows Peer-to-Peer Feature

If you’re using Windows, and disabling your firewall or secondary connections hasn’t resolved the “DNS Server Not Responding” error message, there’s one more option you can try: the Peer-to-Peer (P2P) feature. Note: This is something you’ll only find in Windows 10.

This feature helps preserve your device’s download bandwidth. Essentially, it lets you download a Windows update one time, then use your device to spread or share the updated version across other computers included in your local network.

Unfortunately, it can also sometimes interrupt DNS processes. Therefore, it’s worth disabling to see if this resolves the error message you’re currently facing.

How Do I Disable the Windows Peer-to-Peer Feature?

To do so, click on the Windows icon , followed by the Settings (gear icon) > Update & Security :

In the window that opens along the left-hand side, select Delivery Optimization :

Next to the ‘Allow downloads from other PCs’ option, toggle the switch to disable it:

When you’re done, restart your computer and try accessing the website again. If this doesn’t work, don’t worry. We still have more solutions to try.

7. Restart Your Router

The next troubleshooting step is to restart your router. Doing so will flush your router’s cache and could be the solution for resolving the “DNS Server Not Responding” message.

How Do I Restart My Router?

Most modems come with a power button that enables you to quickly power them off. After a minute or so, turn your modem back on and wait for it to re-establish a connection. Once it does, check to see whether you’re able to access the internet from your browser.

Note that sometimes simply restarting the router isn’t enough. You may want to reboot it by unplugging it entirely, and then waiting at least 30 seconds before plugging it back in and powering it on again.

8. Install Updated Network Adapter Drivers on Your Computer

Another reason you may be seeing the “DNS Server Not Responding” message is if your current Windows network adapter driver is old or outdated. If this is the case, getting a new adapter driver or updating yours may be the solution you need.

How Do I Install Updated Network Adapter Drivers?

There are a couple of ways to update your network adapter driver. One is to do it manually , which you should only do if you are at least somewhat familiar working with drivers. Alternatively, you can do it using an automated tool such as Driver Easy or Snappy Driver Installer (SDI) :

Either of these solutions will automatically recognize your system and locate the appropriate drivers for you to use with it. We recommend this method because it eliminates the risk of human error, such as downloading or installing the wrong driver on your device.

Once you download SDI and finish installing the updated drivers, restart your computer. Then try reconnecting to the internet, to determine whether this resolved the issue.

9. Flush Your DNS Cache and Reset Your IP

If you’ve eliminated your browser, antivirus software, and router as the source of the issue, it’s time to turn your attention to your DNS settings. As with the router cache, it may be that your DNS needs to be cleared before it can properly make a connection to the internet, or your IP might need a reset.

How Do I Flush the DNS Cache and Reset My IP?

If you’re using Windows, start by typing “cmd” into the search field along the taskbar, and then selecting the Command Prompt app:

In the window that opens, enter “ipconfig/flushdns” (no quotations), and hit Enter :

When the process is finished, it will display a message letting you know that the DNS cache was successfully flushed. Repeat this process for the following commands:

If you’re using a Mac device, you can flush your DNS cache by opening the Terminal application (press the Command + Space keys, and then type “Terminal” into Spotlight). In the Terminal application window, enter the following:

Press the Enter key. There won’t be a success message as there is on Windows devices. However, simply running this command will flush the DNS cache. For further guidance, you can refer to our full guide on how to flush your DNS cache in Windows, Mac, and Chrome.

10. Disable IPv6

IPv6 is the latest Internet Protocol version that helps route traffic between networks and the internet. Unfortunately, it may also be behind the “DNS Server Not Responding” message you’re currently seeing.

Therefore, another potential solution to try is disabling IPv6 on your computer.

How Do I Disable IPv6?

To do this in Windows, open your Network Connections control panel , then right-click on your current connection. In the drop-down menu, select Properties :

Under the Networking tab of the panel that opens, scroll down until you see Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6):

If it’s selected, unselect the box, then click on OK . Refresh your browser and try connecting to the internet again.

To disable IPv6 in macOS, you first need to determine what network interface you’re using. To do this, open the Terminal application , then issue the following command:

If you want to disable IPv6 for a wireless connection, you would use the following command:

For an Ethernet connection, you would use:

Then hit the Enter key, and refresh your browser to see if the issue is resolved.

11. Change the Default DNS Server on Your Windows Computer

Another solution you can try in order to fix “DNS Server Not Responding” in Windows is to change your default DNS server. To do this in Windows 7, 8, or 10, the first step is to access your network connection properties.

How Do I Change the Default DNS Server?

Start by clicking on the Windows button in the bottom-left corner of the task bar. In the search field, type “Network connections”, and then select View network connections in the menu that appears:

Next, choose the internet adapter you’re currently using (WLAN for wireless network connections or LAN for ethernet cable connections). Right-click on the internet adapter, followed by Properties :

In the window that opens, choose Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4 ), and then click on the Properties button:

To manually assign a different DNS server address, select Use the following DNS server addresses and input the address of an alternative server:

For example, you can enter Google’s DNS server, which is “8.8.8.8”, under Preferred DNS server . Then you can add “8.8.4.4” under Alternative DNS server , and hit OK .

If you’re running macOS, you can locate these settings by clicking on the Apple icon followed by System Preferences :

Next, select the Network icon. Choose your current network, and then click on the Advanced button:

Under the DNS tab, click the (+) button next to “IPv4 or IPv6 addresses”, and hit Enter :

After you enter the new DNS information, click on OK followed by Apply . Restart your web browser, and then visit the website you were trying to access. You should find that the “DNS Server Not Responding” issue is now resolved.

Trying to access a website only to be met with a “DNS Server Not Responding” message can be both frustrating and concerning. While there are a variety of reasons this error may occur, the good news is that most have simple resolutions.

As we discussed in this article, there are 11 potential solutions you can use to fix a “DNS Server Not Responding” message, in both Windows and macOS:

Switch to a different browser, and if necessary, update your default browser to the latest version.
Connect With a Different Device
Start your computer in Safe Mode.
Temporarily disable your antivirus software and firewalls.
Disable secondary connections.
Disable the Windows Peer-to-Peer feature.
Restart your router.
Install updated network adapter drivers on your computer.
Flush your DNS cache and reset your IP.
Disable IPv6.
Change the default DNS server on your computer.

Suggested reading: How to Fix the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_BAD_CONFIG Error Code . How to Fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error Code

How to Fix the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_BAD_CONFIG Error Code (7 Solutions)

What Is DNS? Domain Name System Explained

8 Tips on How to Reduce DNS Lookups and Speed Them Up

Help Center /

How To Fix the “DNS Server Isn’t Responding” Error on Windows 10

The DNS server is one of the necessary parts of getting a stable, working connection to the internet. Unfortunately, many Windows 10 users have been running into errors regarding this. Some reports say that Windows 10 displays the error message “DNS server isn’t responding” causing websites to stop loading.

What is a dns server, what happens when dns servers fail, what does “dns server not responding“ mean, what causes the “dns server not responding” error, solved: “dns server isn’t responding” error on windows 10, quick fix: switch to a different browser, method 1. restart your router, method 2. change your dns server, method 3. update your network adapter drivers, method 4. flush your dns and clear dns cache, method 5. manually enter your mac address, method 6. temporarily disable your antivirus, method 7. disable peer-to-peer windows 10 updates, method 8. disable internet protocol version 6 (ipv6), method 9. disable the microsoft virtual wifi miniport adapter, method 10. reset your ip address and network protocols (tcp/ip), final thoughts.

Short Answer: DNS servers translate domain names into IP addresses, allowing DNS clients to reach the origin server. When users type domain names into the URL bar in their browser, DNS servers are responsible for translating those domain names to numeric IP addresses, leading them to the correct website.

The Domain Name System (DNS) is the phonebook of the Internet. When users type domain names such as ‘softwarekeep.com’ or ‘google.com’ into web browsers, DNS is responsible for finding the correct IP address for those sites. Browsers then use those addresses to communicate with origin servers or CDN edge servers to access website information. This all happens thanks to DNS servers: machines dedicated to answering DNS queries.

A server is a program or device providing services to other programs, referred to as ‘clients’. DNS clients, built into most modern desktop and mobile operating systems, enable web browsers to interact with DNS servers. Here's more .

Short answer: It results to DNS Server Not Responding.

DNS servers can fail for multiple reasons - power outages, cyberattacks, or hardware malfunctions. In the case of a major DNS server outage, some users may experience delays due to the amount of requests being handled by backup servers, resulting in the common phrase: DNS Server Not Responding . But it would take a DNS outage of very large proportions to make a significant portion of the Internet unavailable.

DNS Server Not Responding error means that your browser was unable to connect to the internet or the DNS of the domain you're trying to reach are unavailable. In order to resolve it, restart your router or modem, check for network issues and update your browser.

A Domain Name System (DNS) is a directory that translates domain names or hostnames into Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. Due to this process, users can easily access websites on the internet through web browsers.

Sometimes, users encounter DNS error messages when accessing a website, such as the “DNS server not responding” message. This means the web browser can’t connect to the site because the DNS server fails to map hostnames to IP addresses correctly.

There are many causes for the “DNS server not responding” error, from misconfigured network adapters to incorrect DNS server addresses. Fortunately, most of these problems lie on the user’s end and can be solved without much effort.

The DNS server failed issues is often caused by improperly configured DNS records. This might happen when users don’t use the correct values or IP address during the recording process.

Other possible causes of the “DNS server not responding” error are:

Unavailable DNS provider. Your DNS service might stop working because of DNS errors on its network, such as heavy traffic and server outage.
Malfunctioning router or modem. A faulty router or modem can also trigger DNS errors. Try switching the ethernet ports or using different ethernet cables to determine whether your router is causing the DNS problem.
Hardware or network issues. Some hardware or network failures can also cause the “DNS server not responding” error. For example, a single server fails to relay the information to the next server correctly.
Antivirus software. Problems can occur when the software vendor updates an antivirus program, making the program believe your computer is infected and suddenly block your internet access. When this happens, your browser might show the “DNS server not responding” message.

We’ll be using both standard Windows 10 troubleshooting methods as well as some specific procedures that aim to fix this error message. Our guides are step-by-step, allowing you to restore your internet connection efficiently.

Here are how you can fix the “DNS server not responding” issue:

Switch to a different browser
Troubleshoot network problems in network diagnostics.
Update or reinstall Network adapter drivers.
Restart your router or modem.
Temporarily Deactivate antivirus and firewall.
Flush DNS cache and clear DNS cache
Change the DNS server address. Replace your ISP’s address with a different DNS address.
Manually enter your MAC address.
Disable peer-to-peer Windows 10 updates.
Disable Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6).
Disable the Microsoft Virtual WiFi Miniport Adapter.
Reset your IP address and network protocols (TCP/IP)

Tip : If you’re unfamiliar with the Windows 10 interface, we recommend reading our How to Get Started with Windows 10 article before troubleshooting.

It’s a possibility that the DNS server error only shows up in one specific browser. An outdated client could cause this, security exploits, missing or damaged files, or misconfigured settings.

The easiest way to potentially fix the “DNS server isn’t responding” error would be simply switching to a different browser. For example, try switching to Microsoft Edge if you’re currently using Google Chrome. Edge comes pre-installed on all Windows 10 systems, making it easy to access in situations like this.

Want a new forever browser? Check out our Which Web Browser Should You Be Using in 2021 article and find your new perfect match.

You can restart your router in 3 easy steps:

Locate the power button on your router and turn the device off.
Wait for a few minutes. We recommend waiting 5 minutes to allow your router and network to shut down properly.
Turn your router back on .

Test if you still experience DNS server issues after giving your router a restart. If necessary, continue reading and try our other methods to solve the error.

Another easy solution to this error is manually changing your DNS server. By doing so, you can go around limitations and might even get a better internet speed on your device. Here are the steps to quickly change your DNS server to a well-known, fast, and public DNS.

Press the Windows + R keys on your keyboard. This is going to bring up the Run utility.

Click OK to apply your changes. Now, you can see if the DNS server is still having issues.

Regularly updating your driver software is something you should do all the time. Outdated network drivers can cause more trouble than you’d think.

In this solution, we will be using the integrated Device Manager to update the drivers for your network adapters.

Wait for the driver installation to complete. Once the driver is installed, restart your computer and check if the DNS server is working.

If your DNS is outdated, you can manually clear its cache to potentially fix the issues this causes. The method is simple and involves using the Command Prompt.

Keep in mind that you might be required to use an administrator account to perform this method. Need help? Check out our How to make a local user an administrator in Windows 10 guide.

Open the Search function in your taskbar, or alternatively use the Ctrl + S keyboard shortcut to bring up the search bar.

When prompted by the User Account Control (UAC), click Yes to allow the app to launch with administrative permissions.
Paste in the following command and press the Enter key to execute it: ipconfig /flushdns
Close the Command Prompt and check if Google Chrome still shows you the “ DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NO_INTERNET ” error.

Every network adapter installed on your device, be it your PC, laptop or tablet has a physical address called MAC. Your MAC address, or “Media Access Control”, is assigned to the device’s network.

Sometimes, manually finding and then inputting this address to your network properties will fix DNS server-related errors. Let’s see how you can get this done.

Antivirus applications are known to cause issues on computers by interfering with your internet connection or blocking apps and services from running properly. You can test if the antivirus you’re using at the moment is causing the “DNS server isn’t responding” error by temporarily disabling it.

Note : This method is not recommended as it is unsafe to use your computer without protection. Only proceed if you’re aware of the possible risks and have a backup of your system to revert any damage that may happen.

Find your antivirus application from the list and select it by clicking on it once.
Click on the Disable button now visible in the bottom-right of the window. This will disable the application from launching when you start your device.
Restart your computer.

The Peer to Peer (P2P) update feature is quite controversial amongst Windows 10 users. While it aims to make updating your computer easier, it often hogs a large amount of bandwidth and slows down your internet.

This feature has been reported to cause issues with internet speed, DNS server, and more. Luckily, you can disable it.

After turning this feature off, you’ll no longer use your internet to send and receive updates from other computers. Try and see if the DNS server error still happens after completing the steps above.

Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) is currently the most recent version of the Internet Protocol (IP). If your network is configured for the earlier IPv4, disabling IPv6 may be able to fix the “DNS server is not responding” error.

Click OK to finalize the change.

Repeat this process for all of the available Virtual Miniport Adapters. When done, close the Device Manager and restart your computer.

If none of the methods above worked, you may try to reset your TCP/IP. This requires the Command Prompt and potentially administrative permissions.

Type in the following commands and press the Enter key after each line to execute them: ipconfig /release ipconfig /all ipconfig /renew

After successfully executing the commands, exit the Command Prompt and reset your PC. Check if the “DNS server isn’t responding” error is still present.

We hope this helps. If you liked it, share it. If you need more help of this kind, our Help Center offers hundreds of guides to assist you if you’re in need of further help. Return to us for more informative articles, or get in touch with our experts for immediate assistance.

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DNS server not responding? Here’s how to fix the error

If your browser can’t establish a connection to the internetInternet, the Windows Troubleshooting function will occasionally respond with the message, “DNS server not responding”. There are many factors that can cause this notification to appear. Fortunately, this the DNS server problem can generally be correctedfixed in just a few simple steps.

DNS: online name resolution

Changing your web browser, deactivating the firewall (temporary), restarting the router, changing the dns server via the router, change dns server under windows, changing the dns server using powershell, changing the dns server using the command prompt, checking the new dns server.

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The domain name system (DNS) is a directory service used for transforming alphanumeric domain names into numeric IP addresses . A decentralized process, name resolution generally takes place on DNS servers’ networks distributed throughout the world. Every Internet address you enter into your web browser’s search bar is then forwarded by your router to a DNS server. This server then dissolves the domain name into a numeric sequence and returns a corresponding IP address . Should the DNS server fail to produce an answer because it’s down, then it won’t be possible to access the desired website; the result is the error message “DNS server not responding”.

DNS server is down: The best solutions at a glance

The root of such irritating messages can often be traced back to the server outage. In such cases, the DNS server is temporarily unavailable. Most of the time, these problems can be corrected by changing browsers, or switching a few of your firewall settings. Restarting the router or changing the DNS server can also solve the problem.

To ensure the connection problem isn’t being caused by your web browser , carry out a test by attempting to visit the desired web page with alternative applications . Web browsers like Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Apple Safari are some of the most conventional options. If you can solve the problem simply by switching browsers, then check your preferred application’s settings and make sure you’re using the latest version of it. Certain circumstances may require uninstalling the program and reinstalling it again.

In case you aren’t able to achieve your desired results simply by changing browsers, then the next step is to rule out Windows Firewall as the possible culprit. Pull up the control panel and temporarily deactivate the firewall . If you’re now able to access the desired website, then it looks like you’ve identified the Firewall as the source to the problem. Next, check its configuration . Should the error persist even after deactivating the firewall, then the DNS server may yet prove to be the cause of the problem.

Connection problems can often be solved by restarting the server. Most devices include a power button specifically for this purpose. Should this fail to yield any results, then it looks like a hard reboot may be in store; this is done simply by pulling out the power plug. Wait around 30 seconds until all of the electrical components have completely powered down before starting up the device again. Should you receive the error message “DNS server not responding” after having completed the first two steps, then the only choice remaining is to choose an alternative DNS server.

Selecting another DNS server

If you have ruled out common causes of error such as the router software crashes or conflicts with Windows Firewall, then changing your DNS server could be the solution.

Typically, the Internet provider usually assigns the DNS server address. A few clicks is all it takes to replace the DNS server with your desired server.

Using a public DNS server is also an option; just look on specific DNS server lists. Google operates a fast, free, and very reliable public DNS server. How to set up these DNS servers via the router settings or under Windows 10 and Windows 11 is explained in the step-by-step instructions below.

If you want to change the DNS server via your router’s settings, first open your browser and access your router as follows:

Open the command line in Windows by using the key combination Windows key + [R] and typing “cmd”.
Now enter “ipconfig” into the open tab and copy the numbers after “Default gateway” onto the clipboard .
Now copy just the number into your browser’s address field, confirm it, and log in with your relevant access information.
Log into web interface of your router.
Look for the “Access data”. This is typically found in the “Internet” menu.
Select the individual DNSv4 server and type in the addresses (primary and secondary) of your preferred choice. When it comes to Google servers, for example, these are 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4.

If Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6) is used instead of the Internet Protocol Version 4 (IPv4), then the IPv6 addresses of the DNS server must also be exchanged. The public DNSv6 addresses of the Google servers are:

- 2001:4860:4860::8888

- 2001:4860:4860::8844

Step 1: Show network connections

Use the search function to search for “ Network connections ”. Click the result “View network computers and devices” with the left mouse button to open the menu.

Windows 11: Search for network connections

Step 2: Select the network adapter in use

In the second step, you now need to select the Internet adapter you are using. If you have a wireless connection, select the WLAN adapter (Wireless Network Connection). If you are connecting to the Internet via cable, the LAN adapter is the right choice (LAN connection/Ethernet). Once you have identified the correct network adapter, right-click on it and select the “Properties” menu item.

Step 3: Select Internet protocol

Now it is time to select the Internet protocol in use. You can choose between the Internet Protocol version 4 and the Internet Protocol version 6. Start with the DNS server settings for version 4 by selecting it and then clicking the “ Properties ” button.

Step 4: Change DNS server address

Click on “ Use the following DNS server addresses ” and enter the address of the alternative DNS server there. For example, if you want to use Google’s DNS server, enter 8.8.8.8 for “Preferred DNS server” and 8.8.4.4 for “Alternate DNS server”.

Click the “ OK ” button to confirm the DNS server change.

If Internet Protocol version 4 (IPv4) is used instead of Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) , select version 6 in the third step and set the corresponding IPv6 addresses. For example, for Google servers, these would be 2001:4860:4860::8888 and 2001:4860:4860::8844 .

You can also use Windows PowerShell to change the DNS server. This method is more suitable for experienced users. With just a single command, you can change the DNS server without having to click through all the Windows menus if, for example, the currently entered DNS server is not responding.

Click on the Windows icon on the task bar, search “ PowerShell ”, right-click “ Windows PowerShell ”, and then choose “ Run as administrator ” from the menu.

Now you can determine the name (alias) of the adapter (i.e. the network cable), which should connect you to the Internet. To do this, enter the following command into PowerShell:

In the example, the name of the adapter is “Ethernet”. Use the following command to change the DNS server addresses:

Instead of “Ethernet” insert the previously determined interface name (if different).

The DNS server addresses, 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 , are the addresses of Google’s public DNS servers. If another public DNS server is used, both addresses need to be changed accordingly in order to comply.

Changing the DNS server via the command prompt is also aimed more at users with some experience in Windows administration.

First open the command prompt as an administrator by entering “ cmd ” in the search function, right-clicking the appropriate search result and clicking “ Run as administrator ”.

Next, determine the interface name as well. This is done with the command:

Now you can configure primary and secondary DNS servers with the following commands:

The name in the quotes must match the previously set interface name!

You can find out whether changing DNS server has solved the problem by carrying out a simple test. Enter the URL of a well-known site in your browser e.g. https://www.google.com . If the site can be accessed, it means the DNS server is functioning properly.

If the site can’t be accessed, you can enter the following IP address into your browser: 172.217.23.99 . This is one of Google’s IP addresses. If Google doesn’t appear after entering the address, it probably means there’s a general Internet problem rather than a problem with the DNS server.

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Linux vs. Windows Servers

The duel between Linux and Windows may have an obvious victor on the home computer front, but the battle for server use paints a very different picture: since the beginning, Linux has bested Windows, as usage figures show. But many users remain unconvinced by statistics and rightfully ask the question: what are the actual differences between the two platforms?

Load balancing

Online stores, company websites, or promotional content: it doesn’t matter what platform you’re using—availability remains key for a successful online business model. More and more companies are opting to use load balancing schemes to equally distribute the server requests of internet users across multiple computers. When properly applied, not only does load balancing permit high availability for…

How to change DNS servers on Windows 10, 8 and 7

Configuration

It can make sense to change DNS servers (typically that of the internet provider) for a number of reasons: One example is that it can enable faster access times on the World Wide Web. In this guide, you’ll find out why this is the case and how you can change DNS server on Windows 10, macOS, and other operating systems.

Flush DNS | How to clear the DNS Cache

Operating systems, such as Windows or macOS, automatically save information about address resolution from systems and applications in the network in a DNS cache. The purpose of this practical cache is to speed up network traffic. Read on to find out why it’s useful to regularly clear the DNS cache and how exactly such a DNS flush works.

Batch file commands at a glance

Batch files are files with commands that are run through the Windows command line and are processed in a batch. The most varied processes can be automated with their help. Batch file commands have existed since MS-DOS was released back in the 1980’s. The following article summarizes some of the most important batch commands for you.

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How To Fix The “DNS Server Unavailable” Error

Luckily, there are a few easy solutions

The Domain Name System (DNS) server is where all of the domain names for the sites you’ve visited are stored. When searching a domain name in a web browser, it is forwarded by your router to a DNS server. If the particular site’s domain name has been saved, it then returns the corresponding IP address. This makes the loading process for those sites particularly faster.

As great as this process is, it’s not uncommon for the DNS server to fail to establish a connection from time to time. Attempting to troubleshoot your web browser in this instance can often result in a ‘DNS server not responding’ error.

Many factors could cause this particular error to show up on your screen. The most prominent of which is the possibility that the server itself is currently experiencing an outage. Luckily, this problem is often accompanied by a few easy solutions.

Have you’ve received an error that the DNS server is unavailable? For a quick fix, these problems can sometimes be corrected by something as simple as changing browsers, messing with a few of your firewall settings, or rebooting your router. It’ll be up to you to figure out the cause and subsequent correction for the problem.

Start by using a different browser for the web pages you’re trying to open. This means that if you’re currently receiving the error while using the Mozilla Firefox browser, switch it up to Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome. Should the problem persist, we can move on to testing out other devices.

Attempt to open a webpage using a mobile device, on the same network, to ensure that the problem isn’t the result of hardware failures. It would also be beneficial to attempt to connect to the same webpages using your data plan to identify if the cause is, in fact, with the DNS server.

Once you’ve exhausted these steps, reboot your router. If the “DNS server unavailable” error is still present, we’ll have to undergo a few more effective methods.

Flushing Your DNS (Windows)

The most effective method for fixing the issue with the DNS server being unavailable is to flush it using Command Prompt .

Pull up the Run dialog by simultaneously pressing the Windows key and R key .
Type cmd into the field and press Enter .
In the Command Prompt window, type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter .

Follow up by typing ipconfig /release and press Enter .

Finally, type ipconfig /renew and press Enter .

Close out of the Command Prompt window and reboot your system.

Flushing Your DNS (MacOS)

You can also flush the DNS on a Mac. The way in which you do this will vary slightly depending on the version of Mac your computer is running. It often only involves a change in the syntax used during the process.

Open a Finder window and then head into Applications , followed by Utilities , and ending in the Terminal .
MacOS High Sierra – sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder; sleep 2; echo macOS DNS Cache Reset | say
MacOS Sierra – sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder;say DNS cache has been flushed
MacOS Mojave – sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder;sleep 2;
MacOS X El Capitan/Yosemite – sudo dscacheutil -flushcache;sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder;say cache flushed
Press the Return key, enter your password, and then hit the Return key once more.
Await the audio alert that indicates a successful DNS flush before exiting the Terminal.

The MacOS X cache clearing will need a few added steps in order to fully flush it out. You’ll have to flush both MDNS and UDNS caches on top of the steps previously taken.

Before exiting from the Terminal, perform the following commands:

For the MDNS cache, type sudo discoveryutil mdnsflushcache
For the UDNS cache, type sudo discoveryutil udnsflushcaches

Remove Multiple Antiviruses

“You can never have too much protection.” This may be somewhat true in the real world, but in the world of technology, having multiple antivirus programs installed on the same computer can actually hinder the protection provided.

Check to see if you have two or more antivirus programs currently running as this may be the reason for the DNS issue. Once you disable all additional programs, reboot your system and the problem should resolve itself.

Ensure that moving forward you only keep a single software program running to help defend yourself from unwanted malware attacks. This not only increases security but can help you avoid running into more DNS server errors.

Changing DNS Servers

If you’ve already attempted all fixes written here and are still receiving the same “DNS server unavailable” error, it may be in your best interest to change your DNS servers. There are plenty of public DNS from which to choose, Google’s free DNS being one of the more popular choices.

The process for this is very simple and can be done in a few clicks, depending on where you choose to change it. We’ll be using the Windows operating system in each of our examples.

DNS Changes via Router

You can find the Default Gateway by opening a Command prompt window, typing ipconfig, and pressing Enter. Copy the numbers located beside Default Gateway in the pulled up information.

Login to the router using the proper credentials.
Locate your internet account information which can often be found in a similarly named tab.
Navigate to the DNS server and select the option that best mirrors your used internet protocol (IPv4 or IPv6).
Google’s DNS server will be 8.8.8.8 in the preferred DNSv4 and 8.8.4.4 in the alternate DNS server . In the case of IPv6, you’ll want to use 2001:4860:4860::8888 and 2001:4860:4860::8844 respectively.
Save the edited information and exit the router interface.

DNS Changes via Windows OS

Access your network connection properties by launching the Run function ( Windows key + R ) and typing in ncpa.cpl . Press Enter .

Windows 10 users can right-click the Windows icon at the lower left of the desktop screen and select Network Connections from the menu.
Windows 10 will have your options on the left side panel. Select one and choose Change adapter options from the main window.
Right-click your choice and select Properties .

In the Networking tab, highlight your IP version (v4 or v6) from the menu and click the Properties button.

Click the radial for Use the following DNS server addresses: to enable editing capabilities.

If you had been using a previous DNS server not obtained automatically, remember to annotate the addresses just in case you want to return using them at a later date.
Finalize the changes by clicking OK .

Test New DNS Server

Once the DNS servers have been changed, open a browser and attempt to launch a well-known site like www.google.com . If the site is immediately accessible, then the new DNS is functioning properly. If not, enter one of Google’s IP addresses, 172.217.16.195 , directly into your browser and hit Enter.

Wait for the familiar Google logo and search bar to appear. If this also fails, then the problem may lie with the internet and not the DNS server itself. Contact your internet service provider for additional help if this is the case.

Former US Army IT communications specialist who began his online blogging career in 2016. Joseph has over 10 years experience in the IT industry as both an analyst and communications expert. He's a night owl and an avid Red Bull consumer who spends most of his downtime enthralled by online gaming and website building. Read Joseph's Full Bio

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How to diagnose and fix DNS problems

Dead websites, page loading issues, web not working as it should? Here's what to do next.

A laptop screen displaying a Page Not Found - Error 404 message

Browsing the web is so easy, simple and straightforward that it feels almost automatic. Sure, you know there's a lot of low-level tech making this happen, but who cares when it just works?

That only makes it more frustrating when you suddenly get major page loading issues, though, dead websites everywhere, and all kinds of other web-based complications.

Internet connectivity problems across multiple websites can look like something you'll never fix yourself, but that's not always true – they're often related to DNS (Domain Name System) problems. In this article we'll look at how to identify these, and then get your system working again.

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What is DNS?

Accessing a new website looks simple, at least from user's point of view. Enter the URL in a browser, wait a few seconds, website appears, that's about it. Peek under the hood, though, and there's a lot more going on.

Your browser can't access a web server from a domain name like techradar.com, for instance. It can only find and download websites when it has a server IP address , such as 199.232.198.114.

A device normally handles this by asking your ISP's DNS server to translate the domain name into an IP address. Easy.

But what if DNS fails, and the server doesn't always return the IP address you need? Then you'll see major web problems.

What does a DNS issue look like?

If your DNS fails entirely then it's likely you'll see timeouts, DNS or other errors with all your internet apps. It might look like your entire internet is dead.

Other DNS failures are partial, though, affecting some websites only. Maybe you'll access sites a, b and c as usual, but x, y and z all seem to be down.

Partial failures can also cause odd-looking page loading issues. What if DNS allows you to access bigsite.com, but not the domain where it hosts its images, scripts or contact forms?

You might see image placeholders, empty spaces where content used to be, or buttons and other site features not working as they should. It's this mix of problems across multiple sites that's one of the tell-tale signs of a DNS problem.

Diagnosing a DNS issue

The simplest DNS problem to diagnose is an issue with your current server. Try the same websites on a connection using another DNS server, and if they're now accessible and work correctly, it looks like you have a DNS issue.

If you've problems on a mobile device connected to your home Wi-Fi, for example, switching to your mobile network allows you to test a site with new DNS servers.

Or if you're on the move and already using your mobile network, look for a free hotspot you can try. (Just for a quick connectivity test, though – free Wi-Fi can be a security risk causing more problems than it solves, and you should always use at least a cheap VPN to stay safe on these networks.)

No other connections available? Try the virtual online browser Browserling . If you can reach it, choose Chrome as your preferred browser, enter the URL in the address box and click Test Now! Browserling uses its own DNS to connect to the site, so if it gets you access and your own connection doesn't, it could be a DNS issue.

Test your DNS server

A more advanced test is to manually ask your DNS server for the IP address of the domain you're trying to access. If the server can't find the IP or displays an error, that points to a DNS difficulty.

To try this on Windows, click Start , type CMD and open Command Prompt , then type NSLOOKUP and press Enter. ( NSLOOKUP is often available on Macs and Linux – try opening it from your terminal window.)

NSLOOKUP launches and displays the name and IP address of your current DNS server (or 192.168.* if devices get their DNS via your router's connection.)

Now type the name of any domain you can't currently access, press Enter, and NSLOOKUP queries your DNS server.

If NSLOOKUP displays the site IP address, it looks like DNS is working correctly.

But if NSLOOKUP displays an error like ' can't find Google .com: Non-existent domain ', that's pretty conclusive evidence that something is screwed up at the DNS level. Although there is one more quick trick you should try.

Try another DNS server

You've proved that your DNS server can't find an IP address for a domain, but will other DNS servers do any better? NSLOOKUP makes it really, really easy to find out.

Type SERVER 1.1.1.1 , press Enter , and NSLOOKUP changes its default DNS server to the IP address 1.1.1.1. (That's Cloudflare. If you know you were using Cloudflare before and that's the DNS with the problem, switch to Google's 8.8.8.8 , instead.)

Now enter whatever domain you couldn't reach earlier, and NSLOOKUP sends its DNS query to Cloudflare (or Google), instead.

If NSLOOKUP failed earlier but successfully gets an IP with Cloudflare, that looks like a problem affecting your DNS server only.

Test this by entering the IP address in your browser, instead of the regular domain. Use 142.250.179.238 for Google, for instance. If you can't access the website when you enter a domain, but it at least begins to load with the IP address, that confirms your DNS issues.

How to fix DNS problems

If it looks like your ISP's DNS isn't working, the quickest and most effective solution is to switch to a free public DNS server . Google and Cloudflare offer fast and reliable services which anyone can use, no registration required.

Changing DNS servers normally involves tweaking your device network settings. The Cloudflare support site has guides on setting up Cloudflare DNS for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, routers, gaming consoles, Linux and more. These are sometimes very basic ('install app X to do it for you'), but Google's equivalent page has more detailed advice if you need it.

Whatever changes you make, be sure to note down your original settings first, just in case you need to switch them back later.

Reboot your device when you're done, and it should now be using your (hopefully) problem-free new DNS server.

If you still have internet connectivity problems, though, it's time to ask your ISPs support team for help. Tell them what you've tried, and that should help them diagnose the issue and get your connection running smoothly again.

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Mike is a lead security reviewer at Future, where he stress-tests VPNs , antivirus and more to find out which services are sure to keep you safe, and which are best avoided. Mike began his career as a lead software developer in the engineering world, where his creations were used by big-name companies from Rolls Royce to British Nuclear Fuels and British Aerospace. The early PC viruses caught Mike's attention, and he developed an interest in analyzing malware, and learning the low-level technical details of how Windows and network security work under the hood.

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How to Fix “DNS Server Not Responding” (11 Ways)

Getting “DNS Server Not Responding” on your browser is a frustrating experience. The error states something is wrong with a DNS server but doesn’t tell much about the issue.

DNS (Domain Name System) is an integral part of the internet, translating domain names into IP server addresses and allowing visitors to reach websites by typing easy-to-remember domains. Without it, you’ll have to remember long, numeric IP addresses to access websites.

Thus, DNS issues are critical for any web-based service, and you must address them with top priority. This guide will explain what “DNS Server Not Responding” means and what usually causes it. You’ll also learn 11 proven ways to fix it in no time.

What is “DNS Server Not Responding”?

Before we tackle the problem head-on, let’s first understand the meaning of the “DNS Server Not Responding” error. DNS, short for Domain Name System , translates human-readable domain names (like www.example.com ) into IP addresses (such as 192.168.0.1 ).

The DNS system stores the information of existing domains and their corresponding IP addresses in a decentralized network of DNS servers. Computers connect to these DNS servers to fetch the IP addresses of domain names in order to connect to websites and other internet services.

It goes without saying that the DNS service is an essential part of the internet, and online services can’t function properly without it. One of the errors related to DNS server issues is “DNS Server Not Responding.”

There are many variants of the message marking the DNS server error, such as “The DNS server is not responding” or “Device or resource (DNS server) is not responding.” It can occur on various devices and applications.

On browsers, you will likely see messages such as “This Site Can’t Be Reached” and error codes like DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN . Below is a screenshot from Google Chrome.

DNS Server Not Responding Error in Google Chrome (Screenshot)

In the following sections, we will explore the common causes and provide practical solutions to help you fix the error and restore your internet connection.

What is the cause for the “DNS Server Not Responding” Error?

The “DNS Server Not Responding” error can come from different places. Understanding why it occurs will help you deal effectively with the error. Here are some common causes.

DNS Server Issues

The DNS server itself may be temporarily down due to high traffic or temporary outages. As a result, your device fails to receive a response from the DNS server.

Network Connectivity Problems

Issues with your network connection, such as a weak Wi-Fi signal, faulty Ethernet cable, or misconfigured network settings, can contribute to the DNS Server Not Responding error. These problems can disrupt the communication between your device and the DNS server.

DNS Cache Issues

Your computer keeps a DNS cache that stores IP addresses. This DNS cache reduces the loading time since your computer remembers the IP addresses and doesn’t need to connect to a DNS server. However, if the cache becomes corrupted or outdated, it can lead to conflicts and result in the DNS Server Not Responding error.

Incorrect DNS Server Settings

Misconfigured DNS settings on your device can also cause the DNS server error. Using wrong or outdated DNS server addresses prevents your device from connecting to a functional DNS server and resolving hostnames.

Firewall or Antivirus Software Restrictions

Firewall and antivirus software protect you from various online threats. However, overly strict settings can block your device from communicating with the DNS server. The usual result of that is the DNS Server Not Responding error.

Misconfigured Network Adapters

Network adapters are the hardware that connects computers to ISP (Internet Service Provider) networks. If the adapter settings are wrong or the network adapter driver is corrupted, you will likely get the “DNS Server Not Responding” message.

How to fix DNS Server Not Responding Error – 11 Recommended Ways

In this section, we will guide you through a series of practical solutions to fix this issue. These methods are designed to address the common causes.

Let’s get started and help you get your internet connection back on track.

1. Troubleshooting Network Problems

Before going into more advanced troubleshooting, you can run network diagnostics on your system. Most major operating systems include tools that can test your connection and pinpoint the exact issue.

Below are the steps for enabling network diagnostics on Mac and Windows.

Hold the Option key and click on the Wi-Fi status icon in the menu bar.

Click the info icon next to each entry in the Summary for detailed information.

On Windows 10

Open the Window menu in the lower left corner and type “ control panel.”
Click on the Control Panel icon to open its options.

Open Network and Internet options on Windows to troubleshoot the network

Choose Troubleshoot problems from the Change your networking settings section.

Run the network troubleshooter on Windows

The results of the troubleshooting will list any detected problems. Follow the steps to repair them.

2. Try with A Different Web Browser

One of the most straightforward troubleshooting methods is to visit the website from a different browser. If the error is not present on another browser, it’s a sign that the problem comes from your current one – expired cached files, corrupted installation, etc. For example, try Microsoft Edge or Mozilla Firefox if your default browser is Google Chrome, or vice versa.

3. Try with Another Device

Occasionally, undetermined problems in your device may disrupt the proper DNS resolution and cause the DNS Server Not Responding error. To establish if the problem is local to the primary device, try to open the problematic website on another device. For example, if you use a PC, load the website from your phone on mobile data. If you don’t get the error on it, it’s safe to assume that your current device malfunctions.

4. Restart your Computer in Safe Mode

Various operating system (OS) issues can trigger the DNS server error. In many cases, they are caused by third-party software interfering with the standard DNS resolution.

You can confirm if your add-on applications conflict with your OS by restarting your computer in safe mode. Safe Mode is a stripped-down version of your operating system that loads only its core functionalities and excludes third-party applications you’ve installed.

Safe mode on Windows 10

To start Windows 10 in Safe Mode, follow the steps below.

Open the Windows menu in the lower left corner.

Your PC will restart and show a menu of options. Select Troubleshoot > Advanced .
From the Advanced Options menu, choose StartUp Settings , and then Restart .

Safe Mode on Mac

Rebooting a Mac in Safe Mode is even easier.

While the system is booting, hold SHIFT .
Release SHIFT once you see the login screen, and your Mac will start in Safe Mode.

While your OS is in safe mode, you can test if the error appears in your browser. If it’s gone, one of your applications is clearly interfering with the connection to the DNS server. It could be your firewall, antivirus software, or any other application.

5. Restart your Router or Modem

Problems in your internet router could also cause the DNS Server Not Responding error. For instance, routers also store cache, which might become invalid.

Most of these issues can be fixed by restarting the router. Just turn it off by pressing the Power button . Wait a few minutes to ensure the device is completely reset, and then turn it back on. Then, visit the website to check if the problem is fixed.

6. Disable Temporarily your Antivirus and Firewall

Undoubtedly, antivirus and firewall software are instrumental in protecting you from various online threats like malware and viruses. However, they can sometimes restrict your internet access, manifesting as the “DNS Server Not Responding” error.

Temporarily disable your antivirus software or firewall and try revisiting the website. If the website now loads correctly, your security software is clearly restricting the connection.

Below are the steps to disable the firewall on different OS.

How to disable the firewall on Mac

Click on System Settings from the Dock menu.
Select Network and click on Firewall .

How to disable the firewall on Windows

Open Updates and Security settings on Windows to disable the firewall

Choose Windows Security > Firewall & network protection .
Select Domain network, Public network , or Private network .

7. Disable Other Connections

Sometimes, being registered on multiple network connections can be problematic. You may be bouncing between the networks, which could prevent you from establishing a stable connection. Or the networks may be conflicting with each other. In either case, this could lead to network issues disturbing your DNS configuration.

You can fix this problem by keeping only your primary network connection and removing the secondary ones. How to do that on different operating systems? Read on to find out.

Open System Settings > Network .

In the following window, select Change adapter options .

8. Change the DNS Server Address

Your operating system must connect to functional DNS servers in order to fetch IP addresses correctly. If the DNS server fails, you are connected to incorrect DNS server addresses. In case there is no assigned DNS server at all, your computer won’t be able to obtain the IP address automatically when you type a domain name in your browser. This will lead to DNS errors.

You can resume the DNS service by changing the default DNS server with alternative DNS servers. For example, you can use the following DNS servers addresses of Google or Cloudflare.

Google DNS servers – 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
Cloudflare DNS servers – 1.1.1.1 or 1.0.0.1

How to change the DNS servers on Windows

Open the Windows menu and type “control panel.”

Open Control Panel on Windows to change the DNS servers

Select Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center .
Click on the active network under the section View your active networks .

Open the network's properties to change the DNS servers

How to change the DNS servers on Mac

Open System Settings > Network from the Dock menu.

Open Network settings on Mac to change DNS servers

9. Flush DNS Cache

Occasionally, the DNS cache of your operating system becomes expired or corrupted. When it happens, your computer might not connect to the correct IP address of a website you visit, which can result in the “DNS Server Not Responding” error. In this case, the best solution is to flush your operating system’s DNS cache.

Flush DNS cache on Windows

To flush the DNS cache on Windows 10, open Command Prompt as administrator and run the following command:

You can learn detailed steps, alternative methods, and how to flush the DNS cache on other Windows versions in this tutorial on how to flush the DNS cache on Windows .

Flush DNS cache on Mac

You can flush the DNS cache on macOS using Terminal . Use the following command if your macOS version is Monterey or later:

Note that you must have administrator access to run sudo commands. Read this tutorial on how to clear the DNS cache on Mac for step-by-step instructions and to learn how to clear the DNS cache on older macOS versions.

Flush DNS cache on Linux

Like Mac, you can clear the DNS cache on Linux from Terminal . Typically, later Ubuntu versions use the DNS resolver systemd-resolved, and the commands to flush the DNS cache are either:

However, there is a wide range of Linux distributions, and they use different DNS resolvers. Thus, the command for flushing the DNS cache varies. Read this guide on how to flush the DNS cache on Linux to find instructions for your particular Linux version.

10. Update Your Network Adapter Driver

Hardware or network failures can trigger a DNS error message. Regarding the network, you’ll have to rely on your ISP to fix the problem. However, on your end, you can ensure that your network adapter driver works as expected by updating it to the latest stable version. Driver failures occur more often on Windows, so we will focus on it.

The easiest way is to let Windows pick the right drivers and update your adapter automatically.

Open the Windows menu.
Use the search bar and type “device manager. “

Open Device Manager in Windows to update network drivers

Double-click on Network adapters to expand the menu.

Update the network adapter's driver on Windows

11. Disable Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6)

Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6) is the latest Internet protocol designed to replace Internet Protocol Version 4 (IPv4). Since IPv6 is yet to be fully adopted, occasional compatibility issues are expected. They can lead to network connectivity problems, including DNS issues.

Therefore, disabling IPv6 on your computer may fix the “DNS Server Not Responding” error. Read along to find the steps for your particular operating system (OS).

How to disable IPv6 on Windows

Open the Windows menu in the lower left corner and type “control panel.”

Open Control Panel in Windows to disable IPv6

Navigate to Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center .
Click on your current network connection under View your active networks .

Open the network properties to disable IPv6

How to disable IPv6 on Mac

Open System Settings from the Dock menu.
Click on the Network icon.

Open the network details on Mac to disable IPv6

The option to disable IPv6 from the Network settings might be unavailable on your Mac. In that case, you can turn off IPv6 from your Terminal .

To disable IPv6 on both your wireless network and Ethernet, run the following command.

“DNS Server Not Responding” is a frustrating error, mainly because the actual cause is unclear from the get-go. However, the result is always the same – your device can’t connect to a DNS server, preventing you from connecting to a website or online service.

Nevertheless, a limited number of problems can cause the error. Understanding the nature of the error and how to troubleshoot it will save you a lot of time and effort trying to fix it. This guide outlined the most common causes and their practical solutions. We hope you’ll put it to good use.

DNS Server Not Responding FAQ

How do i find my dns server.

You can find the DNS server settings in the system preferences of your operating system.

On Mac, open System Settings > Network > click on your active network > Details > DNS . The DNS server addresses are listed under the section DNS servers .

Alternatively, you can use Terminal to obtain your DNS server addresses. Open Finder, and from the menu bar on top of the screen, select Go > Utilities > Terminal .

In Terminal , run the following command:

The result’s output is your current DNS servers.

How to find your DNS servers in Terminal on Mac

On Windows, open Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > click on your active network > Details . In the following window, you should see the DNS servers for your connection.

You can also see the DNS servers using the Command Prompt . Run the following command:

Command Prompt will output a long list of settings. Scroll down to the section DNS Servers to see the IP addresses.

Find your DNS server in Command Prompt on Windows

How do I know if I have DNS problems?

Typically, if the DNS server is down, your computer can’t resolve any website address. Your browser will display a message such as “This Site Can’t Be Reached” or “Hmm. We’re having trouble finding that site”. The message will be accompanied by an error code like DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN.

You can also ping the DNS server addresses to test their responsiveness. This can be done from Terminal on Mac or Command Prompt on Windows. In our example, the DNS server address is 192.168.6.1 . To ping the address on either Terminal or Command Prompt, use the command:

The server will respond by sending back data packages to you as long as it is working.

Ping the DNS server address to check if it is responsive

If the server is unresponsive, you won’t receive any data packages.

Is it safe to reset DNS?

Yes, it is absolutely safe to reset your DNS . In fact, periodically flushing your DNS cache is recommended as it updates the information in your DNS resolver, fixes many DNS-related errors, and prevents DNS spoofing.

How to Fix the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_BAD_CONFIG Error Code (11 Solutions)
How to Fix “This Site Can’t Be Reached” Error in Chrome
What is the dns_probe_finished_nxdomain, and how to fix it?

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DNS Server Not Responding (4 Easy Solutions)

Suddenly you cannot access any websites through the Internet. Then you try to troubleshoot the network problems on your Windows. It tells you the DNS server not responding is the culprit. You may see one of these:

“ The DNS server isn’t responding . Your computer appears to be correctly configured, but the device or resource (DNS server) is not responding .”

If this problem occurs, don’t worry. Follow this guide to fix it.

Try these fixes

If you’d like to know why you can’t browse the Internet due to the ‘DNS server not responding , you can go to read the reason part . Otherwise, follow along with the solutions directly.

Correct your DNS server address
Clear your DNS cache and reset your IP
Update your network adapter driver
Restart your modem and router

Bonus Tip: Try using VPN to fix the connection problem.

Note: The screens shown below are from Windows 10, but all the methods also apply to Windows 11/8/7.

Solution 1: Correct your DNS server address

The DNS server not responding error could be probably caused by an incorrect DNS server address . So you can follow these to correct your DNS server address:

1) On your keyboard, press the Windows logo key and R at the same time to invoke the Run box.

Restart your computer and try to access the website you want to go to again and see if it succeeds.

Solution 2: Clear your DNS cache and reset your IP

There may be problems with your DNS server if its cache is getting full. To see if that’s the case, try clearing the DNS cache and resetting the IP address.

Note: Click Yes when prompted by the User Account Control.

Then restart your computer and try to access the website you want to visit again and see if it succeeds.

Solution 3: Update your network adapter driver

Your DNS server won’t respond if the network adapter driver is outdated. You can update your network adapter driver manually or, if you’re not confident playing around with drivers, you can do it automatically with Driver Easy .

Driver Easy will automatically recognize your system and find the correct drivers for it. You don’t need to know exactly what system your computer is running, you don’t need to risk downloading and installing the wrong driver, and you don’t need to worry about making a mistake when installing.

You can update your drivers automatically with either the FREE or the Pro version of Driver Easy. But with the Pro version it takes just 2 clicks (and you get full support and a 30-day money-back guarantee ):

1) Download and install Driver Easy.

After updating your network adapter driver, please restart your computer. Try to access the website you want to go to again and see if it succeeds.

Solution 4: Restart your modem and router

If your modem or router doesn’t work properly, the DNS server could stop responding, either. You can restart your modem and router if you have one to solve the problem.

2) Try to access the website you want to go to again and see if it succeeds.

Why can’t I access websites when the DNS server not responding?

First, let’s figure out what a DNS server is. DNS ( Domain Name System) server helps to translate the website address into the IP address for your browser to connect to.

For example, when you want to access our website: www.drivereasy.com on Chrome, the DNS server translates it into our public IP address: 144.217.68.24 for Chrome to connect to.

So you may know if there’s any wrong with your DNS server, you cannot access any website on your browser. No exception that if your DNS server stops responding, you cannot access the websites through the Internet.

Hopefully, this article has helped you fixed the problem. Feel free to comment below with your own experiences and share with your friends or colleagues if they’re experiencing the same problem.

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As a technical writer for Driver Easy, April writes articles related to various tech issues, including Windows computer problems and game errors. She's never happier than when her articles help people solve their problems - whether they're Windows errors and blue screens to network errors and faulty hardware. As a Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP), she focuses on Windows system problems and daily tips and tricks. When she's not writing, she likes reading literary novels and poetry.

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Troubleshooting Domain Name System (DNS) issues

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Try our Virtual Agent - It can help you quickly identify and fix common DNS issues.

Domain Name resolution issues can be broken down into client-side and server-side issues. In general, you should start with client-side troubleshooting unless you determine during the scoping phase that the issue is definitely occurring on the server side.

Troubleshooting DNS clients

Troubleshooting DNS Servers

Data Collection

We recommend that you simultaneously collect data on both the client and server sides when the issue occurs. However, depending on the actual issue, you can start your collection at a single data set on either the DNS client or DNS server.

To collect a Windows Networking Diagnostic from an affected client and its configured DNS server, follow these steps:

Start network captures on the client and server:

Clear the DNS cache on the DNS client by running the following command:

Reproduce the issue.

Stop and save traces:

Save the Nettrace.cab files from each computer. This information will be helpful when you contact Microsoft Support.

Submit and view feedback for

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6 Ways to Fix Multiple Connections to a Server or Shared Resource by the Same User

Network and file sharing issues can be frustrating, especially when encountering errors like ‘Multiple Connections to a Server or Shared Resource by the Same User.’ In this article, we’ll delve into the common causes of this error and provide six effective ways to fix it. But before we explore the solutions, let’s understand why this error occurs in the first place.

There are multiple reasons why this error can occur. One common reason is mapping drives, especially when users map network drives using different methods (such as IP address and server name) to the same shared resource.

Additionally, this error arises when users have multiple active sessions, misconfigured DNS settings, or even disconnect and reconnect network drives without entirely terminating previous connections, which can cause multiple connections. With this understanding, let’s begin with fixing this error.

Note : The steps are the same for both Windows 10 and 11. However, for demonstration, we are going with Windows 11. If you are on Windows 10 or below, follow along.

1. Ensure That the Shared Folder Is Not Opened

Although this method is a fundamental precaution to prevent potential conflicts or errors that might arise from concurrent access to the same resource. This is one of the most common reasons for getting ‘multiple connections to a server or shared resource by the same user’ error.

In order to fix this error, you just need to check if another window is open that simultaneously displays the shared folder you are accessing. If it is running, close it down. If not, let’s look at more concrete steps you can take to resolve it.

2. Restart Windows Explorer

Sometimes, the error occurs if your PC freezes or slows down while connected to the remote computer. Follow the steps below.

Step 1 : Press the Windows key on your keyboard, type Task Manager , and click Open.

Note : Alternatively, you can press ‘Ctrl + Shift + Esc.’

Step 2 : Under the Processes tab, select Windows Explorer and right-click on it.

Step 3 : From the context menu, choose End task.

That’s it. This will unfreeze your PC, paving a way to share and remotely connect your PC. We recommend restarting the client computer or Windows Explorer if your PC is freezing or disconnected. If this method fails to resolve the problem, move on to the next fix.

Also Read : How to fix ‘Not recognized as an internal or external command’ error on Windows

3. Restart the Workstation Service

At times, restarting the Workstation service resolves connection errors. But what is Workstation Service? Well, it is a Windows Server operating system service that allows the client computer to request files and other resources from the servers. Let’s begin with the steps.

Step 1 : Press the Windows key on your keyboard, type Command Prompt , and click ‘Run as administrator.’

Step 2 : Once launched, type the command below and press Enter on your keyboard.

Step 3 : Now, enter the below command and hit Enter.

There you go. Once the Workstation Service restarts, you should be able to establish the connection to the concerned workstation, inherently fixing the pre-existing connection error. If this didn’t fix the issue, check out the next one.

4. Delete the Credentials of Your Network Share

Multiple connection errors may occur if a user attempts to establish multiple connections with the same credentials. To resolve this issue, you must delete the credentials associated with your network sharing using the Credentials Manager. Here’s how you can do it.

Step 1 : Press the Windows key on your keyboard, type Control Panel , and click Open.

Step 2 : Now, select Credentials Manager.

You will see there are two credentials: one is Web, and another is Windows.

Step 3 : Navigate to Windows Credentials, and from the list of credentials, choose the credentials for your network share.

Note : The below image is only for reference.

Step 4 : Once selected, click on the credentials, and from the drop-down, select Remove.

Step 5 : Choose Yes in the ‘Delete Generic Credentials’ pop-up.

Now, disconnect all previous connections to the server or shared resource and try again. This should fix the issue; if not, check out the next fix.

5. Create a Different DNS for the Remote Server

Setting up a separate DNS for the remote server can help mitigate the error by optimizing network connections and ensuring seamless access to the server. There are two workarounds:

Use the IP address of the remote server when you try to connect to the network share.
Create a different DNS alias for the remote server and connect through it.

Create a Different DNS for the Remote Server

The above two workarounds should fix the issue. If, in case it didn’t, the next method will for sure fix the issue once and for all; continue reading.

Also Read : How to fix if Windows cannot access the specified device path or file error

6. Delete the Drive(s) You Are Experiencing Issues With

If none of the abovementioned methods fix the ‘Multiple connections to a server or shared resource by the same user’ error, this method should. Follow the instructions below.

Step 3 : Now, look for the drive(s) you are experiencing issues with, type the below command, and hit Enter.

Note : Replace ‘servername\foldername’ with the drive you want to delete.

That’s about it. Once you delete the problematic drive(s) you are trying to access, the ‘multiple connections to a server or shared resource by the same user’ error should be resolved. If you

If you have any queries we missed addressing in the article, check out the FAQ section below.

FAQs on Fixing ‘Multiple Connections to a Server or Shared Resource by the Same User’ Error

Adjusting the server’s connection limit settings requires administrative access to the server. If you’re an administrator, you can modify these settings based on your network’s requirements.

Yes, you can use the ‘netstat’ command or tools like the ‘Resource Monitor’ in Windows to view active network connections, which might help you identify any excess connections.

Quickly Fix Server Issues

Now that you know how to fix the ‘Multiple Connections to a Server or Shared Resource by the Same User” error, you can quickly overcome this error and continue collaborating seamlessly. You may also want to read how to fix ‘DLL Is Not Designed to Run on Windows’ error .

Last updated on 04 November, 2023

The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.

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COMMENTS

DNS Server Not Responding
You can do this by following these steps: Open Control Panel. One way to do this is press the Windows Key + R to activate the "Run" box, then type "control" in the text box presented in the "Run" box and hit the enter key. Select the Network and Internet option presented within the Control Panel window.
Diagnose & Fix the Most Common DNS Issues on Windows 10
6. Perform Clean boot to fix DNS issues on Windows 10. Press Windows key + R to open the Run utility. Type msconfig in the run box and click the OK button. Click the Services tab at the top. Check Hide all Microsoft services and click Disable all button. Click Apply and OK to save changes. Restart your PC.
How to Resolve DNS Issues on Windows 11/10
Enable the Microsoft LLDP Protocol Driver. When your PC suffers from DNS issues, consider enabling Microsoft's LLDP protocol driver. This driver comes with both Windows 10 and Windows 11 PCs. Access the Start menu, search for Control Panel, and select Control Panel in the search results. Choose Network and Internet on the Control Panel window.
How to Fix a "DNS Server Is Not Responding" Error on Windows
On the open page, next to "Internet Connections," click "Run." If you're on Windows 10, head into Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional Troubleshooters. Click "Internet Connections" and choose "Run the Troubleshooter." Follow the troubleshooter's instructions to detect and resolve your DNS issues.
DNS Server Not Responding in Windows 10 [SOLVED]
To fix DNS server errors on Windows 10, you need to visit your network adapter manufacturer's website, download the latest drivers and install them on your PC. If you can't access the Internet at all, it might be caused by the DNS server not being unavailable, so download the drivers on a different device and install them on your PC.
How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding Errors
Step-by-Step: Run Network Troubleshooter in Windows 10. Step-by-Step: Run Network Troubleshooter in Windows 7 or 8. Fix DNS Server Not Responding Problems. Resolve TCP/IP and DHCP Failures. Handle DNS Provider Problems. Avoid Internet Blockages From Antivirus Programs. Recover or Replace a Malfunctioning Router or Modem.
How to Fix the "DNS Server Not Responding" Error on Windows
Here's how to do that for Microsoft Defender Firewall: Open Start, locate Windows Security, and launch the app. Select Firewall & network protection on the app's main window. Choose the network that says (active). Turn off the Microsoft Defender Firewall toggle. Select Yes in the User Account Control prompt.
8 Ways to Fix DNS Server Not Responding Errors
Select the connection that you're trying to fix from the left sidebar, then click Advanced… in the bottom-right corner. 3. Select DNS from the tabs at the top. 4. Select the DNS Servers box and ...
How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding Problem (with Pictures)
3. Power cycle your modem and router. This will clear your router's cache and thus may resolve DNS errors. To do so: Unplug your modem's power cable as well as your router's power cable. Allow both your modem and your router to sit for at least 30 seconds. Reconnect your modem and wait for it to come back online.
How to the Fix "DNS Server Not Responding" Error
Under the DNS tab, click the (+) button next to "IPv4 or IPv6 addresses", and hit Enter: After you enter the new DNS information, click on OK followed by Apply. Restart your web browser, and then visit the website you were trying to access. You should find that the "DNS Server Not Responding" issue is now resolved.
Fix "DNS Server Isn't Responding" in Windows 10
Short answer: It results to DNS Server Not Responding. DNS servers can fail for multiple reasons - power outages, cyberattacks, or hardware malfunctions. In the case of a major DNS server outage, some users may experience delays due to the amount of requests being handled by backup servers, resulting in the common phrase: DNS Server Not ...
DNS server not responding? Here's how to fix the error
Step 4: Change DNS server address. Click on " Use the following DNS server addresses " and enter the address of the alternative DNS server there. For example, if you want to use Google's DNS server, enter 8.8.8.8 for "Preferred DNS server" and 8.8.4.4 for "Alternate DNS server". Change DNS server address in Windows 11.
How To Fix The "DNS Server Unavailable" Error
Flushing Your DNS (Windows) The most effective method for fixing the issue with the DNS server being unavailable is to flush it using Command Prompt. Pull up the Run dialog by simultaneously pressing the Windows key and R key. Type cmd into the field and press Enter. In the Command Prompt window, type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
How To Fix 'DNS Server Not Responding' Error On Windows 10
Reasons for DNS Server Not Responding on Windows 10. Methods to Fix the DNS Server Isn't Responding. Method 1: Switch To Different Browser. Method 2: Disable Antivirus Firewall. Method 3: Restart Router. Method 4: Change DNS Server. Method 5: By Clearing DNS Cache. Frequently Asked Questions. Conclusion.
How to resolve DNS issue on Windows 11/10
8] Change to public Google DNS servers. If everything else fails, you can change the DNS server and replace it with public Google DNS servers - or any other for that matter.. Press Win+R to open ...
Troubleshooting DNS Servers
Check whether the DNS server is authoritative for the name that is being looked up. If so, see Checking for problems with authoritative data. Run the following command: Windows Command Prompt. Copy. nslookup <name> <IP address of the DNS server>. For example: Windows Command Prompt. Copy.
How to diagnose and fix DNS problems
Test your DNS server. A more advanced test is to manually ask your DNS server for the IP address of the domain you're trying to access. If the server can't find the IP or displays an error, that ...
How to Fix "DNS Server Not Responding" (11 Ways)
On Mac, open System Settings > Network > click on your active network > Details > DNS. The DNS server addresses are listed under the section DNS servers. Alternatively, you can use Terminal to obtain your DNS server addresses. Open Finder, and from the menu bar on top of the screen, select Go > Utilities > Terminal.
How to Fix "DNS Server Not Responding" Error (11 Methods)
Reset your internet connection and see if "the DNS server isn't responding" problem is resolved. 9. Flush DNS Cache. Another solution in order to fix DNS servers connection issues is to flush the DNS cache. Clearing the router cache might help make the DNS work properly. Here are the steps to flush DNS cache files on Windows:
Fix for dns server not responding Windows 10
Hit Enter. Exit the prompt then restart. Open Start > Settings > Update & security > Troubleshoot. Scroll down. Click Network adapters. Click Run the Troubleshooter. When complete, restart to see if the problem is resolved. If not, press Windows key + X. Click Device Manager.
DNS Server Not Responding (4 Easy Solutions)
Correct your DNS server address; Clear your DNS cache and reset your IP; Update your network adapter driver; Restart your modem and router; Bonus Tip: Try using VPN to fix the connection problem. Note: The screens shown below are from Windows 10, but all the methods also apply to Windows 11/8/7. Solution 1: Correct your DNS server address
Guidance for troubleshooting DNS
You configure the DNS server to listen on the IP address of the teaming network adapter. On the Interfaces tab of the DNS server properties dialog box in DNS Manager, you can configure the IP address that you want to use. After you restart the DNS server, Windows deletes the setting. The DNS server starts listening on all IP addresses again.
Troubleshooting Domain Name System (DNS) issues
To collect a Windows Networking Diagnostic from an affected client and its configured DNS server, follow these steps: Clear the DNS cache on the DNS client by running the following command: Reproduce the issue. Save the Nettrace.cab files from each computer. This information will be helpful when you contact Microsoft Support.
6 Ways to Fix Multiple Connections to a Server or Shared Resource by
Step 4: Once selected, click on the credentials, and from the drop-down, select Remove. Step 5: Choose Yes in the 'Delete Generic Credentials' pop-up. Now, disconnect all previous connections ...

DNS Server Not Responding – How to Fix the Error in Windows 10

What is the "DNS Server Not Responding" Error?

How to Fix "DNS Serger Not Responding"

Use a Different Web Browser

Investigate Possible Network Issues

Clear the DNS Cache

Update the Network Adapter Driver

Restart your Computer in Safe Mode

Try Accessing a Website With a Different Device

Restart Your Router

Manually Set Your DNS Server

Temporarily Deactivate your Firewall and Disable Antivirus

Reset DNS Settings

Disable all Network Connections Except for the Connection that you are Using

How-To Geek

Quick Links

Use a Different Web Browser

Reboot Your Router

Turn Off Your VPN

Use the Internet Connections Troubleshooter

Flush Your DNS Cache

Use Another Device on the Same Network

Change Your PC's DNS Servers

Update Your Network Adapter Drivers

Temporarily Disable Your Antivirus

Turn Off IPv6 on Your PC

Disable Other Network Connections

Reboot Your PC in Safe Mode

How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding Errors

In This Article

Recover or Replace a Malfunctioning Router or Modem

Reasons Why You Cannot Connect to a DNS Server

How to Run Windows Network Troubleshooter in Windows 10

How to Run Windows Network Troubleshooter in Windows 7 or 8

How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding Problems

Resolving TCP/IP and DHCP Failures

Handling DNS Provider Problems

Avoiding Internet Blockages from Antivirus Programs

Try using another web browser or device

Get closer to your internet router

In Windows 10 and 11

How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding Problem

Troubleshooting

Flushing the DNS Cache

Disabling Extra Connections

Editing the DNS Server

Resetting the Router

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How to Fix the “DNS Server Not Responding” Error on Windows and Mac

What Does “DNS Server Not Responding” Mean?

How to Fix the “DNS Server Not Responding” Error in Windows and macOS (11 Methods)

1. Switch to a Different Browser

How Do I Switch to a Different Browser?

2. Connect With a Different Device

How Do I Connect to a Different Device?

3. Start Your Computer in Safe Mode

How Do I Start My Computer in Safe Mode?

4. Temporarily Disable Your Antivirus Software and Firewall

How Do I Temporarily Disable My Antivirus Software and Firewall?

5. Disable Secondary Connections

How Do I Disable Secondary Connections?

6. Disable the Windows Peer-to-Peer Feature

How Do I Disable the Windows Peer-to-Peer Feature?

7. Restart Your Router

How Do I Restart My Router?

8. Install Updated Network Adapter Drivers on Your Computer

How Do I Install Updated Network Adapter Drivers?

9. Flush Your DNS Cache and Reset Your IP

How Do I Flush the DNS Cache and Reset My IP?

10. Disable IPv6

How Do I Disable IPv6?

11. Change the Default DNS Server on Your Windows Computer

How Do I Change the Default DNS Server?