Skip to main content

Ways to Solve the DNS Server Not Responding Problem

An essential mechanism known as DNS, or Domain Name Service, converts machine-readable IP addresses into human-readable web addresses. That's correct, the DNS must translate your "Google.com" search into an IP address before the internet can comprehend it. Here are eight options you may attempt if your DNS server isn't responding. Nevertheless, the DNS server may sometimes stop responding for unclear reasons.

First Method: Restart your gadget

Restarting your device is one of the simplest fixes you may attempt if the DNS server on your device isn't responding. Even while it's not a foolproof solution, it's amazing how many high-severity problems can be resolved with only a restart.

  • On Windows, go to Start > Power Icon> Restart.
,
  • On Android, long-press the Power button or press the Power + Volume Up button and tap on Restart.
, and
  • On iPhone, press and hold the Side button + Volume Up button and drag the slider to the right to turn off the device. Wait for 30 seconds and long-press the Side button until the Apple logo appears to turn it on. Check out dedicated Restart iPhone guide to learn how to reboot another iPhone.

Method 2: Use a Different Device, Browser, or DNS

To find out whether there's a problem with the browser, try using a different one. Similar to the previous point, attempting a different device may assist in determining if the DNS server failure on your device is due to a change in the device's settings.

Try going to Settings > and resetting the network settings on your browser. Reset thesettings.Try using a different DNS if the browser's default DNS isn't working. similar to OpenDNS, NextDNS, or Cloudflare's 1.1.1.1. In Chrome, go to Privacy and Security > Advanced > Advanced Settings > Default DNS to change the setting.

Approach 3: Clear the DNS Cache

The DNS cache can readily cleared using the Windows shell. This is the procedure.Regarding Windows
  1. Launch Command Prompt.
  2. Type the following command and hit the Enter key to flush the DNS cache.
/flushdns in ipconfig
By doing this, Windows' leftover DNS cache will be deleted, presumably restoring your ability to access the internet without restriction.Regarding Mac
  1. Launch the Terminal app from the Launchpad or search for it on Spotlight using the Command + Space keyboard shortcut.
  2. Type the following command and hit the Enter key.
sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
; sudo dscacheutil -flushcache
  1. Enter your Mac password and then press the Enter key again.
This will instantly reset your DNS cache.

Method 4: Turn Your Router Back On

Rerstart router (1)
Picture: Shutterstock
The secret to opening the gate that lets you access the internet without interruptions is within your router. Therefore, if the DNS is not working, there may be a problem with the traffic router or network congestion if several devices are linked to the same network. If so, you may wish to switch off your Wi-Fi network and wait a few minutes before turning it back on.

Method 5:

Reset DNS SettingsYou may attempt to reset the Host cache from the browser by visiting if your device's DNS is not working.#dns in chrome://net-internals by navigating to the Clear host cache button from the address bar. This functions on Linux and all other main systems. After that, try looking for a domain name, and everything ought to work normally again.

Approach 6: Permit an Application Via a Firewall

Firewalls and Antiviruses may sometimes cause DNS to fail. Although it is not a regular occurrence, this might be one of the causes of your DNS server's reported unresponsiveness. We advise turning off any third-party antivirus software you may be using. Check to see if the DNS is working again by trying to browse.If you use Windows Security instead of a third-party antivirus, you may want to consider turning off the firewall for your web browser.Regarding Windows
  1. Go to Windows Security > Firewall & network protection > Allow an app through firewall.
  2. You can then remove Google Chrome from the firewall by navigating to Change settings > Google Chrome > Remove > OK.
Using MacThe instructions listed below may also be used to approve a program via the macOS firewall.
  1. On your Mac, go to System Settings > Network > Firewall > Options. On older macOS versions, you may need to navigate to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Firewall > Firewall Options.
  2. Now, click on the plus + icon, locate and select the web browser app from the Applications folder and click on Add.
  3. The app will now appear inside the list of apps and services. To make sure the app has complete access to network connections, click on it and select Allow incoming connections from the dropdown menu.
  4. You can now click on OK to save changes.

Technique 7: Upgrade Your System

It is conceivable that your machine is not running the most recent security update, even though Microsoft releases them often. This can be the cause of your Windows or Mac computer's DNS not responding.
  • To update your Mac, go to System Settings > General > Software Update > Update Now.

Approach 8: Consult your service provider

Many times, your internet service provider is at blame for some of the typical problems you encounter. It's possible that certain of its services are unavailable in some places, which might have an effect on your region. You can find out whether your service provider is at fault by giving them a short call or submitting a support request, and you can ask them to resolve your DNS problems as soon as possible.If your DNS server is not responding, you may attempt these fixes. You might attempt resetting Windows without losing your personal data if none of the other alternatives have worked for you. By doing this, your DNS issues should be resolved and your Windows installation and settings restored to their original configuration.Have you ever experienced DNS server problems? Tell us in the comments section below.

Topics