If you’re having trouble connecting to the internet, you might have come across the “DNS Server Not Responding” error message. This error can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to browse the web or stream your favorite shows. Luckily, fixing this issue is easier than you might think.
In this article, we’ll guide you through four easy steps to help you fix the “DNS Server Not Responding” error message on your Windows computer. Understanding what causes the error and how to troubleshoot common issues can save you time and frustration.
So, if you’re ready to get started and resolve this issue once and for all, keep reading for our step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Understanding the DNS Server Not Responding Error
If you are experiencing issues with your internet connection, you may have encountered the DNS server not responding error. This error message typically indicates that your computer or device is having trouble connecting to the Domain Name System (DNS) server, which is responsible for translating domain names into IP addresses that computers can understand.
The DNS server not responding error can be caused by a variety of factors, including incorrect network settings, issues with the DNS server itself, or problems with your internet service provider (ISP). It can also be caused by malware or other software that is interfering with your network connection.
To diagnose and fix the DNS server not responding error, it’s important to understand the underlying causes and potential solutions. In the next few steps, we’ll walk you through some troubleshooting techniques and tips to help you get your internet connection back up and running.
The Basics of DNS
DNS stands for Domain Name System, which is a critical component of the Internet infrastructure. It works like a phonebook, translating human-friendly domain names like google.com into machine-readable IP addresses like 172.217.11.46. Without DNS, we would have to remember long strings of numbers instead of easy-to-remember domain names.
When you enter a website URL into your browser, your computer sends a request to a DNS server, which returns the corresponding IP address. If the DNS server is not responding, you will see an error message and won’t be able to access the website.
The DNS system is distributed, with multiple DNS servers around the world that communicate with each other to provide reliable and fast DNS resolution. Understanding how DNS works is essential to troubleshoot the “DNS server not responding” error.
Step 2: Troubleshooting Common Causes of DNS Server Not Responding
If you’re experiencing DNS server not responding issues, it’s essential to identify the underlying problem. Here are some common causes and ways to troubleshoot them:
Incorrect DNS settings: Check if the DNS settings are configured correctly. If not, reset them to default or manually update them.
Connectivity issues: Ensure that your network connectivity is stable. Check if the cables, modem, and router are working correctly. Reset them if required.
Firewall or antivirus blocking the DNS server: Disable the firewall or antivirus temporarily to see if it’s causing the issue. If yes, whitelist the DNS server in the software.
Malware or virus infection: Scan your device for malware or virus infection. If found, remove it using an updated antivirus software.
Check Your Internet Connection
Slow internet speed can cause DNS server issues, so the first step is to check your internet connection. You can use an online speed test tool to check your connection’s download and upload speeds. If you find that your internet speed is slow, try resetting your router or modem to see if that helps.
Check your Ethernet cable if you’re using one to connect to the internet. Sometimes, a loose or damaged Ethernet cable can cause issues with the DNS server. Try unplugging and plugging it back in or replacing it with a new one to see if that fixes the issue.
Restart your devices including your computer, smartphone, or tablet. Restarting your devices can sometimes fix issues with the DNS server. This is because restarting your device will clear its cache, which can sometimes cause DNS issues.
Step 3: Resetting DNS Settings to Fix DNS Server Not Responding
If you have tried the previous methods and the issue persists, resetting the DNS settings can help. Here’s how:
Flush the DNS Cache: Open Command Prompt and type “ipconfig /flushdns” and hit enter. This will flush the DNS cache and remove any corrupt entries.
Reset the TCP/IP: Open Command Prompt and type “netsh int ip reset” and hit enter. This will reset the TCP/IP stack and resolve any IP conflicts.
Change DNS Server Addresses: Open Network and Sharing Center, click on Change adapter settings, right-click on your network connection, and select Properties. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties. Choose “Use the following DNS server addresses” and enter the following:
- Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
- Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
Disable IPv6: Open Network and Sharing Center, click on Change adapter settings, right-click on your network connection, and select Properties. Uncheck Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) and click OK.
Restart your Computer: After making these changes, restart your computer to apply the changes and check if the DNS Server Not Responding error is resolved.
If you’re experiencing DNS server not responding error on your Windows computer, you can reset your DNS settings to fix the issue. Resetting DNS settings clears all the data and history, so make sure to save any important data before proceeding.
To reset DNS settings on Windows, you can follow the steps below:
- Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
- Type ipconfig /registerdns and press Enter.
- Type ipconfig /release and press Enter.
- Type ipconfig /renew and press Enter.
After executing the above commands, restart your computer to apply the changes. This should reset your DNS settings and fix the DNS server not responding error on your Windows computer.
Resetting DNS Settings on Mac
If you’re experiencing connectivity issues with your Mac, it might be time to reset your DNS settings. DNS, or Domain Name System, is responsible for translating website URLs into IP addresses, allowing your computer to access the internet. When DNS settings become corrupted, it can lead to slow or no internet connectivity.
Resetting your DNS settings on a Mac is a straightforward process that can be done in a few simple steps. The following are the steps you should follow:
- Launch the Terminal application on your Mac. You can find this by navigating to Applications > Utilities > Terminal.
- Type the command “sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder” and press Enter. You will be prompted to enter your admin password. Type your password and press Enter again.
- Once the command has been executed, you should see a message indicating that the process has been restarted.
- Exit the Terminal application and restart your Mac. Your DNS settings will now be reset.
It’s important to note that resetting your DNS settings will clear your DNS cache and any custom DNS servers you have configured. After resetting your DNS settings, your Mac will automatically use your ISP’s default DNS servers.
If you’re still experiencing connectivity issues after resetting your DNS settings, it might be worth considering other troubleshooting steps, such as restarting your router or modem or contacting your ISP.
Resetting DNS settings on a Mac can be a quick and easy fix for connectivity issues. By following these simple steps, you can get your Mac back online and running smoothly again.
Step 4: Additional Tips and Tricks to Fix DNS Server Not Responding
If resetting your DNS settings didn’t solve the issue of DNS server not responding, there are a few additional tips and tricks you can try to get your internet connection back up and running. Here are some options:
Flush the DNS Cache: Clearing your DNS cache can help resolve issues related to DNS. To do this, open the Command Prompt and type the command “ipconfig /flushdns” and press Enter. This will flush your DNS cache and help resolve any connectivity issues.
Switch to a Public DNS Server: Sometimes the issue can be with your ISP’s DNS server. In such cases, switching to a public DNS server such as Google DNS or OpenDNS can help resolve the issue. You can find instructions for changing DNS servers online.
Update Your Router Firmware: Outdated firmware on your router can also cause DNS issues. Check your router’s manual for instructions on how to update its firmware. This may help solve your connectivity issues.
Hopefully, these additional tips and tricks can help you resolve any lingering DNS server not responding issues. If none of these steps worked, you may want to consider seeking professional help or contacting your ISP for further assistance.
Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
If you are experiencing issues with websites not loading properly, one potential solution is to clear your browser’s cache and cookies. Here are some steps you can follow:
- Step 1: Open your browser and locate the settings menu. This can usually be found in the top-right corner of your screen.
- Step 2: Within the settings menu, find the option to clear your browsing data. The location of this option may vary depending on your browser.
- Step 3: Choose the option to clear your cache and cookies. This will delete any temporary files and data stored by your browser.
- Step 4: Once you have cleared your cache and cookies, close and reopen your browser. You should now be able to access websites without any issues.
Clearing your browser’s cache and cookies can help resolve a variety of issues, including slow loading times and error messages. It is a good idea to do this regularly to ensure that your browsing experience remains smooth and seamless.
Disable Firewall Temporarily
If you have tried all the above methods and you are still encountering the “DNS server not responding” error, then it is time to check if your firewall is causing the problem. A firewall can block DNS requests, resulting in the error message.
To disable the firewall temporarily, open the System Preferences on your Mac and click on “Security & Privacy”. Next, click on the “Firewall” tab and click on the lock icon in the bottom left corner to make changes. Then, click on “Turn Off Firewall” to disable the firewall.
Remember to turn on your firewall once you have confirmed if it is causing the problem or not. Disabling your firewall permanently can leave your computer vulnerable to various security threats.
If you have tried disabling the firewall but the issue still persists, it may be time to contact your internet service provider for further assistance.
Use Google DNS
If you are still facing the DNS server not responding issue, you can try using the Google DNS. Google provides free DNS service that you can use to improve your internet speed and fix DNS server issues.
Follow these steps to use Google DNS:
- Go to System Preferences on your Mac
- Click on Network
- Select the Wi-Fi network you are connected to and click on the Advanced button
- Click on the DNS tab and add 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 to the DNS Servers list
Once you have added the Google DNS servers to your network settings, click on the OK button and restart your Mac to apply the changes. This will allow your Mac to use the Google DNS servers and help you resolve any DNS server not responding issues that you might be facing.
Using Google DNS can also improve your browsing speed and protect you from online threats such as phishing and malware attacks.
Why DNS Server Not Responding Error Occurs?
DNS server not responding error can be frustrating and can interrupt your internet connectivity. The most common reason for this error is a misconfiguration or failure of the DNS server. This error can also occur due to problems with your internet connection, corrupt or outdated network drivers, or malware infections.
Another possible reason for this error is a faulty router, which can cause issues with your internet connection. Additionally, if your computer’s DNS cache is corrupted, it can also result in the DNS server not responding error.
Lastly, issues with your firewall or antivirus software can also cause this error to occur. Sometimes, these programs may block DNS requests, leading to connectivity issues. It is important to ensure that your firewall or antivirus settings are properly configured to avoid this problem.
Malware or Virus Infection
If your device is infected with a malware or virus, it can cause issues with the DNS server. Malware can modify your network settings and redirect your internet traffic to malicious sites, resulting in a DNS server not responding error. It can also create fake DNS servers that intercept and modify your internet traffic.
To fix this issue, it’s important to scan your device for malware and viruses. Install a reputable anti-malware software and run a full system scan. Make sure to keep your anti-malware software up-to-date and schedule regular scans to prevent future infections. Additionally, avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown software to reduce the risk of malware infections.
If your anti-malware software detects and removes any malware or viruses but you’re still experiencing DNS server issues, try resetting your DNS settings or contacting your internet service provider for further assistance.
Outdated DNS
| Date | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 | The DNS system is susceptible to cache poisoning attacks, exposing users to malicious websites and compromising the integrity of the internet. | Severe: User data and sensitive information can be stolen or altered by attackers. |
| 2015 | The DNS root key signing key is replaced for the first time to improve security against cyber attacks. | Moderate: Minor impact on users as the transition is seamless and only improves security. |
| 2020 | The DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH) protocol is introduced to enhance privacy and security for users. | Low: No significant impact on users, but can improve privacy and security if enabled. |
Domain Name System (DNS) is a critical part of the internet infrastructure, responsible for translating human-readable domain names into machine-readable IP addresses. However, outdated DNS systems can pose significant security risks, making users vulnerable to cyber attacks and exposing sensitive information to malicious actors.
One major vulnerability of outdated DNS is the susceptibility to cache poisoning attacks, where attackers can inject false data into the cache of a DNS resolver, causing it to return incorrect IP addresses. This can redirect users to malicious websites, exposing them to phishing scams, malware, and other forms of cyber attacks. In 2008, a widespread cache poisoning attack exploited this vulnerability, demonstrating the severity of the issue and the importance of updating DNS systems.
To address security concerns, efforts have been made to improve the security of the DNS system. In 2015, the DNS root key signing key was replaced for the first time, enhancing the security against cyber attacks. Additionally, the DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH) protocol was introduced in 2020 to encrypt DNS queries and protect users’ privacy. Although these changes may have only had a moderate or low impact on users, they demonstrate the importance of staying current with DNS technologies and security updates.
Firewall or Antivirus Software Blocking Access
If you are experiencing issues accessing certain websites or online services, there is a chance that your firewall or antivirus software could be blocking the access. Firewalls and antivirus software are designed to protect your computer from malicious threats and prevent unauthorized access to your system. However, sometimes they can block legitimate access to websites or services.
The first step to resolving this issue is to check your firewall or antivirus software settings. Make sure that the website or service you are trying to access is not being blocked by the software. If it is, you can add an exception to the software’s settings to allow access to the website or service.
If you are still experiencing issues after checking your settings, it may be necessary to temporarily disable the firewall or antivirus software to see if that resolves the issue. However, it is important to remember to re-enable the software once you have confirmed that it was not causing the issue.
Another potential issue that can cause firewall or antivirus software to block access is outdated software. Make sure that your firewall and antivirus software are up to date with the latest updates and patches. Outdated software can have vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers and may also cause issues with legitimate access to websites or services.
- Firewall: A network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.
- Antivirus software: A program designed to prevent, detect, and remove malware from a computer system.
- Exceptions: A list of websites or services that are allowed to bypass the firewall or antivirus software’s security rules.
- Patches: Updates released by software vendors to fix security vulnerabilities and improve software performance.
If you have tried all of the above steps and are still experiencing issues, it is possible that the website or service itself is experiencing technical difficulties or is temporarily unavailable. You can try accessing the website or service at a later time or contact the website or service’s support team for assistance.
What Happens When DNS Server Stops Responding?
DNS resolution is a crucial component of the internet, and a DNS server that stops responding can have serious consequences for your online activities. When a DNS server stops responding, your browser is unable to resolve domain names into IP addresses, which is necessary for establishing connections to websites and other internet services.
If your DNS server is down or unresponsive, you may experience slow browsing speeds, or worse, be unable to connect to the internet at all. This can be frustrating and disruptive, especially if you rely on the internet for work or other important activities.
In addition to the inconvenience of not being able to access websites, a non-responsive DNS server can also leave you vulnerable to cyber attacks. Without a functioning DNS server, your computer may be unable to distinguish between legitimate websites and phishing or other malicious sites, putting your personal information and online security at risk.
To mitigate the risk of a DNS server outage, it’s important to have redundant DNS servers in place. This means having multiple DNS servers that can be used as backups if your primary server goes down. Additionally, it’s a good idea to regularly test your DNS servers and monitor them for any signs of issues that could lead to a failure.
In conclusion, a DNS server that stops responding can have serious consequences for your online activities, from slow browsing speeds to potential security risks. It’s important to take steps to mitigate the risk of a DNS outage, including implementing redundant DNS servers and regularly monitoring your DNS infrastructure for issues.
No Internet Access
Imagine settling in to watch your favorite show on Netflix, or trying to finish a last-minute work project, and suddenly you can’t connect to the internet. It’s frustrating, right? One possible cause of no internet access is a problem with the DNS server. If the DNS server isn’t responding, your computer won’t be able to translate domain names into IP addresses, making it impossible to access websites.
Another cause of no internet access is an issue with your ISP, or Internet Service Provider. If the ISP is experiencing an outage or maintenance, you won’t be able to connect to the internet. You can check whether the ISP is experiencing issues by contacting them or checking their website or social media channels for updates.
It’s also possible that your router is the problem. If your router is malfunctioning or misconfigured, it won’t be able to properly connect your devices to the internet. You can try resetting your router, or checking its settings to ensure it’s properly configured.
Lastly, malware or virus infections can cause no internet access. Malware can manipulate your network settings or damage your router, while viruses can damage your computer’s system files. Running a malware or virus scan can help identify and remove any potential threats.
How Long Does it Take to Fix DNS Server Not Responding Issue?
If you are experiencing a DNS server not responding issue, you might be wondering how long it will take to fix. The answer depends on various factors, such as the cause of the issue and your technical knowledge.
If the issue is caused by a simple configuration error or an outdated driver, you might be able to fix it within a few minutes. However, if the issue is caused by a more complex problem such as a malware infection or a hardware failure, it might take longer to troubleshoot and fix.
It is also important to note that the time it takes to fix the issue can also depend on your own availability. If you have limited time to troubleshoot the issue, it might take longer to fix.
In any case, if you are not confident in your technical skills or if the issue persists even after your attempts to fix it, it is always a good idea to seek professional help. An experienced technician can quickly diagnose and fix the issue, saving you time and frustration.
Depends on the Cause of the Issue
If you’re experiencing an issue with your device, the best course of action will depend on the cause of the issue. In some cases, the problem may be due to a software glitch or a faulty driver, while in other cases, it may be due to a hardware problem.
If the issue is caused by a software glitch, the first step you should take is to try restarting the device. This can often resolve the problem, as it clears out the system’s memory and restarts all of the device’s processes. If that doesn’t work, you may need to update or reinstall the software or driver that’s causing the problem.
On the other hand, if the issue is caused by a hardware problem, restarting the device is unlikely to help. In this case, you’ll need to diagnose the problem and either repair or replace the affected component. Some common hardware problems include a malfunctioning hard drive, a defective graphics card, or a failing power supply.
In some cases, it may not be immediately clear whether the issue is caused by a software or hardware problem. If you’re unsure, you can try running diagnostic tests on the device to help identify the cause of the problem. Many devices have built-in diagnostic tools that can be accessed through the system settings, or you can use third-party software to diagnose the issue.
- If you suspect a software problem, try restarting the device or updating/reinstalling the software or driver.
- If you suspect a hardware problem, diagnose the issue and either repair or replace the affected component.
- If you’re unsure, run diagnostic tests on the device to help identify the cause of the problem.
- Remember to always backup your data before attempting any repairs or updates.
| Cause | Action | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Software glitch | Restart device or update/reinstall software or driver | Problem may be resolved |
| Hardware problem | Diagnose issue and repair or replace affected component | Device may need repair or replacement |
| Unclear cause | Run diagnostic tests on device | Cause of problem may be identified |
Whatever the cause of the issue, it’s always a good idea to backup your data before attempting any repairs or updates. This ensures that you don’t lose any important files or data in the process. If you’re not comfortable diagnosing or repairing the device yourself, it’s best to take it to a professional repair shop or contact the manufacturer for assistance.
Usually Resolved in a Few Minutes
Technical issues can be frustrating, especially when they interrupt your work. Fortunately, most problems can be resolved quickly. The good news is that you don’t need to be a technical expert to fix most issues. In fact, many problems can be solved with just a few simple steps.
First, it’s important to identify the problem. Is it a connectivity issue, a software issue, or something else? Once you have a better idea of what’s causing the problem, you can start looking for a solution. In many cases, you can find step-by-step guides or troubleshooting tips online.
If you’re still having trouble, you can also reach out for help. Many companies have customer support teams that are available 24/They can help you diagnose the problem and provide guidance on how to fix it.
Don’t panic if you encounter a technical issue. Most problems are easily fixable, and you can usually get back to work in just a few minutes. Just take a deep breath, follow the steps outlined above, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common causes of DNS server issues?
There are several common causes of DNS server issues, including incorrect DNS settings, server overload, network congestion, malware infections, and hardware failures.
How can I troubleshoot DNS server problems?
To troubleshoot DNS server problems, you can try several steps, such as resetting your router or modem, checking your DNS settings, clearing your browser cache, and scanning your system for malware.
What are some quick fixes for DNS server issues?
If you’re experiencing DNS server issues, some quick fixes include flushing your DNS cache, disabling your firewall temporarily, and trying to connect to a different network or using a different device.
What should I do if the DNS server is still not responding?
If the DNS server is still not responding after trying basic troubleshooting steps, you can try changing your DNS server settings, resetting your router to its default settings, or contacting your internet service provider (ISP) for further assistance.
How can I prevent DNS server issues from happening again in the future?
To prevent DNS server issues from happening again in the future, you can regularly update your system and antivirus software, avoid visiting suspicious websites or downloading unknown files, and configure your DNS settings to use reliable and secure servers.