Seeing the DNS server not responding error can be frustrating, especially when your internet appears connected, but websites won’t load. This is a very common issue on Windows computers and usually happens due to network misconfiguration, DNS cache problems, or router issues.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to fixa DNS server not responding using simple and proven methods. Each solution is explained clearly so even beginners can troubleshoot the problem confidently.
What Does “DNS Server Not Responding” Mean?
Before learning how to fix a DNS server not responding, it’s important to understand what the error actually means.
When the DNS server fails to respond, your browser cannot find the website—even if your internet is working.
Common Signs of a DNS Server Not Responding
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Websites won’t open
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The Internet shows “connected.”An error appears in the browser or the Windows troubleshooter
This issue can affect one website or all websites.
Why Does DNS Server Not Responding Error Occur?
There are several reasons why this error happens.
Common Causes
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Incorrect DNS settings
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Corrupt DNS cache
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Outdated network drivers
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Router or modem problems
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Firewall or antivirus interference
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ISP DNS server outage
Identifying the cause helps determine how to fix the DNS server not responding quickly.
Basic Checks Before Fixing DNS Issues
Before trying advanced fixes, start with simple checks.
Quick Things to Try
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Restart your computer
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Restart the router and the modem
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Check if other devices have internet
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Try opening a different website
If the error persists, move on to the fixes below.
How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding Using Windows Troubleshooter
Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can detect DNS problems.
Steps
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Right-click the Network icon
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Select Troubleshoot problems
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Choose Internet Connections
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Follow on-screen instructions
Sometimes, Windows fixes the issue automatically.
How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding by Restarting the Router
Router issues often cause DNS errors.
Steps
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Turn off the router and the modem
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Unplug power cables
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Wait 30 seconds
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Plug cables back in
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Turn devices on
This refreshes the network connection and DNS routing.
How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding by Clearing DNS Cache
A corrupted DNS cache is a common cause.
Steps to Flush DNS Cache
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Press Windows + R
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Type
cmdand press Enter -
Run Command Prompt as administrator
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Type:
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Press Enter
You should see a confirmation message.
How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding by Changing DNS Server
Switching to a public DNS often fixes the issue.
Recommended Public DNS Servers
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Google DNS:
8.8.8.8and8.8.4.4 -
Cloudflare DNS:
1.1.1.1and1.0.0.1
Steps to Change DNS in Windows
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Open Control Panel
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Go to Network and Internet
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Click Network and Sharing Center
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Select Change adapter settings
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Right-click your connection → Properties
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Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (IPv4)
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Choose Use the following DNS server addresses
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Enter new DNS values
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Click OK
This is one of the most effective ways to fix a DNS server not responding.
How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding by Disabling IPv6
IPv6 can sometimes conflict with DNS settings.
Steps
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Open Network Adapter Settings
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Right-click your network
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Select Properties
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Uncheck Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6)
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Click OK
Restart your computer afterward.
How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding by Updating Network Drivers
Outdated drivers can cause DNS issues.
Steps
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Press Windows + X
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Open Device Manager
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Expand Network adapters
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Right-click your adapter
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Select Update driver
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Choose Search automatically
Keeping drivers updated improves network stability.
How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding by Disabling Antivirus or Firewall
Security software may block DNS connections.
Steps
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Temporarily disable antivirus
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Turn off the firewall briefly
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Test the internet connection
If the issue is resolved, adjust security settings or switch software.
How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding Using Safe Mode with Networking
Safe Mode helps identify software conflicts.
Steps
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Restart computer
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Press F8 or Shift + Restart
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Choose Safe Mode with Networking
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Test internet access
If DNS works in Safe Mode, background apps are causing the issue.
How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding by Resetting Network Settings
Network reset restores default settings.
Steps
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Open Settings
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Go to Network & Internet
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Click Advanced network settings
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Select Network reset
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Restart computer
This removes corrupted network configurations.
How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding on Wi-Fi Only
If DNS works on Ethernet but not Wi-Fi:
Possible Fixes
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Update Wi-Fi driver
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Forget and reconnect Wi-Fi network
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Change Wi-Fi DNS settings
Wi-Fi-specific issues are common.
How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding on Browser
Sometimes the problem is browser-related.
Browser Fixes
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Clear browser cache
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Disable browser extensions
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Reset browser settings
Try a different browser to confirm.
How to Know If a DNS Issue Is From the ISP
Sometimes the issue is not on your end.
Signs of an ISP DNS Issue
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Multiple users affected
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Works with VPN or a different DNS
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ISP outage notifications
Switching to public DNS helps bypass ISP issues.
How to Prevent DNS Errors in the Future
Prevention saves time and frustration.
Tips
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Use a reliable public DNS
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Keep drivers updated
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Restart the router periodically
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Avoid unstable network software
Good network habits reduce DNS problems.
FAQs About How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding
Flush DNS cache, change DNS server, and restart router.
Why does the DNS server not responding keep happening?
It’s usually caused by DNS misconfiguration, cache corruption, or ISP issues.
Can a VPN fix a DNS server not responding?
Yes, VPNs often use different DNS servers and can bypass DNS issues.
Is a DNS server not responding a serious problem?
No, it’s common and usually easy to fix.
Should I use Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS?
Both are reliable and safe; Cloudflare is slightly faster for many users.
Conclusion
The DNS server not responding error is frustrating but rarely serious. In most cases, the issue can be fixed by restarting your router, flushing DNS cache, or switching to a reliable public DNS server.
By following the methods in this guide, you now know how to fix a DNS server not responding quickly and safely. With proper network maintenance and DNS settings, you can prevent this error from happening again.
