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How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Experiencing the “DNS Server Not Responding” error on your Windows 11 PC can be frustrating. This error prevents your computer from connecting to the internet properly. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to fix this issue.

This guide will walk you through easy and effective troubleshooting steps. Each step is explained clearly, so even beginners can follow along without confusion.

By the end of this article, you should have your internet connection back to normal. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into detailed fixes.

Understanding the reasons behind DNS errors will help you prevent future problems as well.

Quick Note: Basic Checks Before Troubleshooting

Before trying advanced fixes, make sure you perform these quick checks. They often resolve the problem immediately and save time.

  • Restart your computer: Sometimes a simple reboot clears temporary glitches causing DNS errors.
  • Restart your router or modem: Power cycling your network devices refreshes their connections.
  • Check your internet connection: Make sure other devices can connect to the internet to rule out network-wide issues.
  • Disable VPN or proxy: VPNs or proxies can interfere with DNS, so try disabling them temporarily.

Step 1: Flush DNS Cache

Windows stores DNS information in a cache to speed up browsing. Sometimes this cache becomes outdated or corrupted, leading to errors.

Flushing the DNS cache forces Windows to fetch fresh DNS details from the server.

  1. Press Windows + S and type Command Prompt.
  2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. In the command window, type the following command and press Enter:
    ipconfig /flushdns
  4. You will see a message confirming the DNS Resolver Cache was flushed.
  5. Close the Command Prompt and check your internet connection.

This step clears old DNS data that might be causing the error, allowing Windows to query DNS servers anew.

Step 2: Set DNS Server Manually

Sometimes, your ISP’s DNS server may be slow or unresponsive. Changing to a public DNS server like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS can improve reliability.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Network & internet from the left sidebar.
  3. Select Advanced network settings, then click on More network adapter options.
  4. In the Network Connections window, right-click your active network (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and select Properties.
  5. Scroll down and select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), then click Properties.
  6. Choose Use the following DNS server addresses.
  7. Enter these DNS addresses:
    • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
    • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
  8. Click OK to save changes and close all windows.
  9. Restart your browser or reconnect to the network and test your internet again.

Manually setting DNS servers can bypass issues with your ISP’s default DNS.

Step 3: Disable Network Adapter and Enable It Again

Resetting your network adapter can refresh its connection and fix minor glitches causing DNS problems.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Network adapters section.
  3. Right-click your active network adapter and select Disable device.
  4. Wait a few seconds, then right-click it again and choose Enable device.
  5. Close Device Manager and check if the DNS error persists.

This simple reset can solve connectivity issues without more complex troubleshooting.

Step 4: Run Network Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in network troubleshooter that automatically finds and fixes many network-related problems.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Internet Connections and click Run.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the diagnostic process.
  5. Once done, test your internet connection.

This tool can identify issues you might miss and apply automatic fixes.

Step 5: Reset TCP/IP Stack

The TCP/IP stack is a set of protocols that control internet communication. Resetting it can fix deeper network configuration problems.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (see Step 1).
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
    netsh int ip reset
    netsh winsock reset
  3. Restart your computer after running these commands.
  4. Check if the DNS server error is resolved.

Resetting TCP/IP and Winsock restores default network settings and clears corrupt configurations.

Alternative Method: Use Network Reset

If none of the above steps work, you can try a full network reset. This removes and reinstalls all network adapters and sets network components back to default.

  1. Open Settings with Windows + I.
  2. Go to Network & internet > Advanced network settings.
  3. Select Network reset at the bottom.
  4. Click Reset now and confirm the action.
  5. Your PC will restart automatically.
  6. After reboot, reconnect to your network and check the internet connection.

This method is more drastic but often fixes persistent network problems.

FAQs

What is a DNS server and why is it important?

A DNS server translates website names (like google.com) into IP addresses that computers use to communicate. Without a working DNS, your computer cannot find websites online.

Can I use any public DNS server?

Yes, popular options include Google DNS (8.8.8.8), Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1), and OpenDNS (208.67.222.222). Choose one that suits your location and needs.

Why does the DNS server stop responding sometimes?

DNS errors can happen due to network issues, router glitches, ISP problems, outdated cache, or incorrect network settings.

Does changing DNS affect internet speed?

It can improve speed and reliability if your ISP’s DNS is slow or unstable. However, it usually doesn’t drastically change your overall bandwidth.

Is it safe to flush DNS cache?

Yes, flushing DNS cache only clears temporary stored DNS info and does not harm your system.

Will resetting my network delete any personal data?

No, network reset only affects network settings and adapters. It does not delete personal files or applications.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all these steps and still face the DNS server not responding error, consider the following:

  • Contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to check for network outages or DNS server issues on their end.
  • Try connecting to a different network (such as a mobile hotspot) to see if the problem persists.
  • Visit the official Microsoft support website for advanced help: Microsoft Network Troubleshooting.
  • Consider updating your network adapter drivers from the manufacturer’s website.

If you suspect hardware issues, a professional technician can help diagnose and repair physical network components.

Conclusion

The “DNS Server Not Responding” error on Windows 11 can be fixed by following simple and clear steps. Start with quick basic checks, then flush the DNS cache, change DNS servers, and reset network settings if needed.

Using the built-in Windows troubleshooters and resetting TCP/IP often resolves underlying problems. If all else fails, network reset or contacting your ISP may be necessary.

By understanding these steps, you can regain internet connectivity smoothly and prevent future DNS errors.

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