The DNS Server Not Responding error can completely block internet access. Websites fail to load, apps stop working, and connections feel broken. Fortunately, this issue is common and easy to fix with proven steps.
What Causes DNS Server Not Responding Error? ⚠️
Several issues can trigger this error:
- ISP DNS server outage or instability.
- Incorrect network or DNS settings.
- Corrupted cache or outdated drivers.
- Firewall, antivirus, or VPN conflicts.
Fixing the root cause restores internet access quickly. ✅
Restart Your Router and Device 🔄
This is the fastest solution.
- Power off your router and modem.
- Wait at least 60 seconds.
- Restart your device and router.
This refreshes the network and resolves temporary DNS failures. ⚡
Switch to a Different DNS Server 🌍
Changing DNS servers often fixes the issue instantly.
Use Google DNS:
- Preferred: 8.8.8.8
- Alternate: 8.8.4.4
Use Cloudflare DNS:
- Preferred: 1.1.1.1
- Alternate: 1.0.0.1
Go to Network Settings > IPv4 Properties and enter these manually. This improves speed and reliability. 🚀
Flush DNS Cache 🧹
Corrupted DNS cache can block websites.
On Windows:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type:
ipconfig /flushdns - Press Enter and restart your PC.
On macOS:
- Open Terminal and run:
sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
This clears outdated DNS records. ✔️
Disable Antivirus, Firewall, or VPN Temporarily 🛡️
Security software can interfere with DNS requests.
- Temporarily disable antivirus or firewall.
- Turn off VPN services.
- Test your internet connection again.
If it works, add your browser and network as trusted apps. 🔧
Update Network Adapter Drivers ⬆️
Outdated drivers can break DNS communication.
- Open Device Manager.
- Expand Network Adapters.
- Right-click your adapter and choose Update Driver.
Updated drivers improve network stability and performance. ⚙️
Reset Network Settings 🔁
A full network reset fixes deep configuration issues.
On Windows:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings.
- Click Network Reset.
- Restart your PC.
This restores default network configurations. ✅
Change Power Settings for Network Adapter ⚡
Power-saving settings may disable network access.
- Open Device Manager.
- Right-click your network adapter.
- Go to Power Management tab.
- Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device.
This keeps your connection stable. 🔒
Check Hosts File 📄
Malicious entries can block DNS resolution.
- Navigate to:
C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts - Open the file using Notepad as administrator.
- Remove suspicious entries.
Save changes and restart your system. ✔️
Contact Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) 📞
If nothing works, the issue may be external.
- Ask about DNS outages.
- Request new DNS server addresses.
- Confirm there are no service disruptions.
ISP-side fixes resolve persistent DNS errors. 🧰
Conclusion ✅
The DNS Server Not Responding error can disrupt everything online. However, restarting devices, changing DNS servers, and flushing cache usually fix it quickly. Advanced steps like driver updates and network resets solve deeper issues.
