How Do I Fix a Bad DNS Server?

How Do I Fix a Bad DNS Server?

If you are experiencing issues with your internet connection, it might be due to a bad DNS server. DNS, which stands for Domain Name System, is responsible for translating domain names into IP addresses. When the DNS server you are using is not functioning properly, it can result in slow browsing speeds or even complete inability to access certain websites.

Identifying the Problem

The first step in fixing a bad DNS server is to identify the problem. Here are some common signs that your DNS server might be causing issues:

• Slow loading websites: If websites take longer than usual to load, it could be a sign that your DNS server is not working optimally.
• “Server not found” errors: If you frequently encounter errors stating that the server cannot be found when trying to access websites, it indicates a potential problem with your DNS server.
• Inconsistent website accessibility: If some websites load while others do not, it could indicate an issue with specific DNS records on your server.

Fixing the Bad DNS Server

Now that you have identified that your DNS server is causing problems, let’s explore some potential solutions:

1. Restart Your Router

In many cases, simply restarting your router can resolve temporary issues with the DNS server.

Unplug the power cord from your router and wait for about 30 seconds before plugging it back in. This will give your router enough time to reset and establish a new connection with the ISP’s DNS servers.

2. Change Your DNS Server

If restarting the router did not solve the problem, you can try changing your DNS server.

By default, your router uses the DNS server provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP). However, there are alternative DNS servers available that might offer better performance and reliability.

To change your DNS server:

1. Access your router’s configuration page by typing its IP address into a web browser.
2. Locate the DNS settings in the router’s configuration menu.
3. Replace the existing DNS server addresses with the addresses of a public DNS service such as Google Public DNS (8.8.8 and 8.4.4) or OpenDNS (208.67.222.222 and 208.220.220).
4. Save the changes and restart your router to apply the new DNS server settings.

3. Flush Your DNS Cache

If changing the DNS server did not resolve the issue, you can try flushing your computer’s DNS cache. The cache stores information about previously accessed websites, and clearing it can help resolve any conflicts or outdated records.

To flush your DNS cache:

1. Open the Command Prompt on Windows or Terminal on macOS.
2. Type “ipconfig /flushdns” (without quotes) on Windows or “sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder” (without quotes) on macOS.
3. Press Enter to execute the command.

4. Contact Your ISP

If all else fails, it might be necessary to contact your Internet Service Provider for further assistance. They can investigate whether there are any issues with their own DNS servers or provide additional guidance to resolve the problem.

By following these steps, you can effectively fix a bad DNS server and restore your internet connection to its optimal state. Remember to keep your DNS server settings up to date and consider using reliable public DNS services for improved performance and security.