What Can I Do if the DNS Server Cannot Be Reached?
When you encounter the error message “DNS server cannot be reached,” it can be frustrating as it prevents you from accessing websites or connecting to the internet. However, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve this issue. In this article, we will explore some effective solutions to help you get your DNS server up and running again.
1. Check your Internet Connection
If you are experiencing the “DNS server cannot be reached” error, start by checking your internet connection.
Ensure that your Wi-Fi router or Ethernet cable is properly connected and functioning correctly. Sometimes, a loose or faulty connection can cause issues with DNS server connectivity.
2. Restart Your Router
A simple but effective solution is to restart your router.
This will refresh the network settings and may resolve any temporary glitches causing the DNS server problem. To do this, locate the power button on your router and turn it off for about 30 seconds before turning it back on.
3. Clear DNS Cache
Your computer stores information about visited websites in its DNS cache to speed up future access.
However, at times, this cache can become corrupted or outdated, leading to problems connecting to the DNS server. To clear the DNS cache:
- Windows: Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type “ipconfig /flushdns”.
- Mac: Open Terminal and enter “sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder”.
- Linux: Open Terminal and enter “sudo service network-manager restart”.
4. Change DNS Server
If the above steps didn’t resolve the issue, you can try changing your DNS server.
By default, your computer uses the DNS server provided by your internet service provider (ISP). However, these servers can sometimes be slow or unreliable. Switching to a different DNS server like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS can improve your internet connection and resolve the “DNS server cannot be reached” error.
5. Disable Firewall and Antivirus Temporarily
In some cases, firewalls or antivirus software can interfere with your computer’s connection to the DNS server.
Temporarily disabling them can help determine if they are causing the issue. Remember to re-enable them after troubleshooting.
6. Update Network Drivers
If you are still experiencing problems, updating your network drivers might help.
Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause connectivity issues, including problems with accessing the DNS server. Visit your computer manufacturer’s website or network adapter manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest drivers for your network card.
7. Contact Your Internet Service Provider
If all else fails and you are unable to resolve the “DNS server cannot be reached” error, it may be an issue with your internet service provider (ISP). Contact their customer support for further assistance and troubleshooting steps specific to their network configuration.
By following these steps, you should be able to troubleshoot and resolve the “DNS server cannot be reached” error effectively. Remember to perform each step in order and test connectivity after each solution before moving on to the next one. Hopefully, one of these solutions will get you back online in no time!