If you’re having trouble accessing websites or experiencing internet slowdowns, clearing your DNS cache on Windows 11 might just be the fix you need. In simple terms, this process involves refreshing the stored IP addresses that your computer uses to quickly locate websites. Ready to make your browsing smoother? Here’s how to do it.
How to Clear DNS Cache on Windows 11
Clearing the DNS cache on Windows 11 helps ensure your system has the most up-to-date IP addresses for websites. This can solve various connectivity issues and improve overall internet performance.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt
Open the Start menu, type “cmd,” then right-click “Command Prompt” and select “Run as administrator.”
Opening Command Prompt with administrative privileges ensures you have the necessary permissions to clear the DNS cache. This step is crucial for the command to execute correctly.
Step 2: Confirm the User Account Control (UAC) Prompt
Click “Yes” when prompted by the UAC.
User Account Control (UAC) will pop up to make sure you really want to proceed. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized changes to your system.
Step 3: Type the Flush DNS Command
In the Command Prompt window, type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
The ipconfig /flushdns command is what actually clears the DNS cache. Pressing Enter will execute the command and refresh the stored IP addresses.
Step 4: Wait for the Confirmation Message
Look for a message saying, “Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache.”
This confirmation message lets you know the DNS cache has been cleared. If you don’t see this, double-check your typing and try again.
Step 5: Close the Command Prompt
Simply close the Command Prompt window to finish up.
No need to keep the Command Prompt open; closing it wraps up the process neatly.
After you complete these steps, your DNS cache will be cleared, helping to resolve any issues related to outdated or incorrect IP addresses.
Tips for Clearing DNS Cache on Windows 11
- Make sure you’re using an administrator account to run Command Prompt.
- If the
ipconfig /flushdnscommand doesn’t work, try restarting your computer and attempting the steps again. - Regularly clearing your DNS cache can help maintain optimal internet performance.
- If you’re still having issues after clearing the cache, it may be worth checking your internet connection or contacting your ISP.
- You can also clear the DNS cache of specific browsers like Chrome or Firefox if the problem persists.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DNS cache?
DNS cache stores IP addresses of websites you’ve visited to load them faster next time.
Why should I clear my DNS cache?
Clearing the cache can resolve connectivity issues and ensure your system uses the most current IP addresses.
How often should I clear my DNS cache?
There’s no set rule, but it’s a good idea to clear it if you experience connection problems or slow internet speeds.
Will clearing the DNS cache affect my browsing history?
No, clearing the DNS cache won’t impact your browsing history or saved passwords.
Can I automate the process of clearing DNS cache?
Yes, you can create a script or use Task Scheduler in Windows to automate DNS cache clearing.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt.
- Confirm the UAC prompt.
- Type the flush DNS command.
- Wait for the confirmation message.
- Close the Command Prompt.
Conclusion
Clearing the DNS cache on Windows 11 can be a simple yet effective way to resolve internet connectivity issues and enhance your browsing experience. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your system is always using the most up-to-date IP addresses.
While this may seem like a minor maintenance task, it can significantly improve your overall internet performance. If you’re still facing problems even after clearing the DNS cache, consider exploring other potential issues like your router settings or contacting your ISP for further assistance.
For those who want to delve deeper, learning about DNS and how it works can provide valuable insights into how the internet functions. So next time your browsing slows down or websites won’t load, remember that a quick DNS cache clear might just be the solution you need.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.