Are you experiencing the frustrating issue of an unavailable DNS server? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the possible causes of this problem and provide step-by-step solutions to get your DNS server up and running again.
Understanding DNS
DNS stands for Domain Name System. It is responsible for translating domain names into their respective IP addresses, allowing your computer to establish connections with websites on the internet. When you type a URL into your browser, it sends a DNS request to a DNS server to find the corresponding IP address.
Possible Causes of Unavailable DNS Server
There can be several reasons why your DNS server may become unavailable. Let’s explore some common causes:
- Internet Connection Issues: A weak or unstable internet connection can prevent your device from communicating with the DNS server.
- Incorrect Network Configuration: If your network settings are misconfigured, it can lead to issues with accessing the DNS server.
- DNS Server Outage: Sometimes, the DNS server itself may experience downtime or maintenance periods, resulting in its unavailability.
Solutions to Fix Unavailable DNS Server
1. Restart Your Router
If you are experiencing an unavailable DNS server, a simple router restart can often resolve the issue. To do this, follow these steps:
- Locate the power button on your router and turn it off.
- Wait for about 10-15 seconds before turning it back on.
- Your router will now reboot. Once it’s back online, check if the DNS server is now available.
2. Check Your Internet Connection
Ensure that your internet connection is stable and working properly. You can try the following steps:
- Restart your device: Sometimes, a simple restart can fix temporary internet connection issues.
- Check cables and connections: Make sure all cables are securely connected to your modem and router.
- Contact your ISP: If you continue to experience internet connection problems, contact your Internet Service Provider for assistance.
3. Change DNS Server Settings
If the above steps do not resolve the issue, you can try changing your DNS server settings. Follow these instructions:
- Open the Control Panel on your computer.
- Select “Network and Internet” and then click on “Network and Sharing Center”.
- In the left-hand menu, click on “Change adapter settings”.
- Right-click on your active network connection and select “Properties”.
- Select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” from the list and click on “Properties”.
- In the new window, select “Use the following DNS server addresses” option.
- Preferred DNS Server: Enter a custom DNS server address (e.g., Google’s public DNS – 8.8.8).
- Alternate DNS Server: Enter another custom DNS server address (e.4.4).
- Click “OK” to save the changes.
After changing the DNS server settings, check if the DNS server is now available.
4. Contact Your Internet Service Provider
If none of the above solutions work, it’s time to get in touch with your Internet Service Provider. They will be able to assist you in troubleshooting the issue and ensuring that your DNS server is functioning correctly.
Conclusion
An unavailable DNS server can be a frustrating problem, but with the help of this guide, you should now have a solid understanding of its causes and how to fix it. Remember to start with simple solutions like restarting your router and checking your internet connection before proceeding to more advanced steps like changing DNS server settings. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to contact your Internet Service Provider for further assistance.
Happy browsing!