Are you facing the frustrating issue of not being able to connect to the internet on your Windows 10 computer? One common problem that could be causing this is a DNS server not responding. In this article, we will explore what a DNS server is, why it might stop responding, and how to fix it.
What is a DNS server?
A DNS (Domain Name System) server is like the phonebook of the internet. When you type a website address in your browser, such as www.example.com, your computer needs to find out the IP address associated with that domain name. The DNS server is responsible for translating human-readable domain names into machine-readable IP addresses.
Why does the DNS server stop responding?
There are several reasons why a DNS server may stop responding:
- Internet connectivity issues: If your internet connection is unstable or experiencing problems, it can affect the communication between your computer and the DNS server.
- DNS cache issues: Your computer may have cached incorrect or outdated information about a particular website. This can cause conflicts with the DNS server.
- DNS server issues: The DNS server itself may be experiencing technical difficulties or undergoing maintenance.
How to fix a DNS server not responding?
Method 1: Restart your router
If you’re experiencing intermittent connectivity issues or if multiple devices on your network are affected, restarting your router can help. Simply unplug it from the power source, wait for about 30 seconds, and then plug it back in. Give it a few minutes to fully restart before trying to connect again.
Method 2: Clear DNS cache
If your computer has cached incorrect DNS information, you can flush the DNS cache to resolve the issue. Here’s how:
- Open Command Prompt: Press Windows Key + X and select Command Prompt (Admin).
- Type the following command:
ipconfig /flushdns - Press Enter: This will clear the DNS cache on your computer.
Method 3: Change DNS server
If the default DNS server provided by your ISP is not responding, you can try using a different one. Here’s how to change your DNS server:
- Open Network and Sharing Center: Right-click on the network icon in the system tray and select Open Network and Sharing Center.
- Select your network connection: Click on the connection name (e.g., Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
- Select Properties: In the new window, click on Properties.
- Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4): Click on it once to highlight it, then click on Properties.
- Select “Use the following DNS server addresses”:
- DNS server preferred: Enter a preferred DNS server address (e., 8.8.8 for Google Public DNS).
- DNS server alternate: Enter an alternate DNS server address (e.4.4 for Google Public DNS).
- Click OK: Save the changes and close all windows.
These methods should help you resolve the issue of a DNS server not responding on your Windows 10 computer. If the problem persists, you may want to contact your internet service provider for further assistance.
Remember, troubleshooting network issues can sometimes be complex, but with patience and the right steps, you can get back online in no time!