Fixing the “DNS server not responding” issue in Windows 11 involves a few simple steps that anyone can follow. You’ll be adjusting settings and running some commands to get your internet connection back to normal. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a better understanding of how to troubleshoot and resolve this common network problem.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding in Windows 11
In the following steps, you’ll learn how to restart your network, change DNS settings, and reset network configurations to resolve the DNS server issue.
Step 1: Restart Your Router and Computer
Turn off your router and computer, then turn them back on after 30 seconds.
Restarting both your router and computer helps clear temporary glitches and refreshes the network connection. It’s a simple first step that often resolves the issue without further troubleshooting.
Step 2: Change DNS Server Addresses
Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Change adapter options, right-click your network connection, select Properties, and then change IPV4 DNS settings to 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 (Google DNS).
Changing DNS server addresses to Google’s public DNS can help bypass issues with your ISP’s DNS server. Google’s DNS is reliable and often faster.
Step 3: Flush DNS Cache
Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type ipconfig /flushdns
, then press Enter.
Flushing the DNS cache removes outdated or incorrect DNS records, ensuring your computer uses the most current and accurate data from the DNS server.
Step 4: Reset TCP/IP Stack
In Command Prompt, type netsh int ip reset
and press Enter.
Resetting the TCP/IP stack can fix network errors by restoring the default configuration. It’s like giving your network settings a clean slate.
Step 5: Disable Firewall and Antivirus Temporarily
Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall, and turn it off. Also, temporarily disable your antivirus software.
Sometimes, firewalls and antivirus programs can block DNS traffic. Disabling them temporarily can help determine if they are the cause of the DNS issue.
After completing these steps, your computer should be able to connect to the internet without encountering the DNS server not responding error.
Tips for Fixing DNS Server Not Responding in Windows 11
- Use Reliable DNS Servers: Google DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) and Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1) are good alternatives.
- Keep Software Updated: Ensure your Windows OS and network drivers are up to date to avoid compatibility issues.
- Check for Malware: Run a full system scan to ensure malware isn’t causing network problems.
- Reboot Regularly: Regularly restart your router and computer to maintain a fresh network connection.
- Consult Your ISP: If problems persist, contact your internet service provider for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes DNS server not responding errors?
This error can be caused by issues with your ISP’s DNS server, incorrect network settings, or temporary glitches in your router or computer.
How do I know if my DNS settings are correct?
You can check your DNS settings by going to Network & Internet settings in Windows. Make sure you use reliable DNS addresses like those provided by Google or Cloudflare.
Can malware affect DNS settings?
Yes, malware can hijack your DNS settings, redirecting you to malicious sites. Always run regular scans to keep your system clean.
Will changing DNS servers speed up my internet?
It can. Using a faster, more reliable DNS server can improve response times and overall internet speed.
Is it safe to disable the firewall to fix DNS issues?
It’s safe to disable it temporarily for troubleshooting. However, always turn it back on once you’ve identified the problem to protect your system.
Summary of Steps
- Restart your router and computer.
- Change DNS server addresses.
- Flush DNS cache.
- Reset TCP/IP stack.
- Disable firewall and antivirus temporarily.
Conclusion
Fixing the “DNS server not responding” issue in Windows 11 can be a straightforward task with the right steps. By restarting your devices, changing DNS settings, and resetting network configurations, you can often solve the problem quickly. Remember to make use of reliable DNS servers like Google’s or Cloudflare’s for better performance and security.
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it’s always a good idea to seek further assistance from your ISP or consult additional online resources. Keeping your system updated and free from malware will also help in preventing such issues in the future. Happy troubleshooting!
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.