The “DNS Server Not Responding” error is a common issue that can disrupt your internet browsing experience. When this error occurs, it means that your device is unable to establish a connection with the DNS (Domain Name System) server, resulting in the inability to translate domain names into IP addresses. Fortunately, resolving this error is often straightforward and doesn’t require advanced technical knowledge. In this guide, we will walk you through a step-by-step process to fix the “DNS Server Not Responding” error and restore your internet connectivity.
Check your Internet Connection:
Before diving into DNS-related troubleshooting, it’s crucial to ensure that your internet connection is stable. Verify that your modem, router, and cables are properly connected and functioning correctly. Restarting your modem and router can sometimes resolve temporary network glitches.
Flush DNS Cache:
DNS cache stores information about previously visited websites, and if it becomes corrupted or outdated, it can lead to the “DNS Server Not Responding” error. To clear the DNS cache:a. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box. b. Type “cmd” (without quotes) and press Enter to open the Command Prompt. c. In the Command Prompt, type “ipconfig /flushdns” (without quotes) and press Enter. d. Wait for the process to complete and then restart your computer.
Change DNS Server Settings:
Sometimes, the default DNS server provided by your ISP (Internet Service Provider) may encounter issues. Switching to a public DNS server like Google DNS or OpenDNS can often resolve the problem. Here’s how you can change your DNS server settings:a. Right-click on the network icon in the system tray and select “Open Network & Internet settings.” b. In the settings window, click on “Change adapter options.” c. Right-click on your active network connection and select “Properties.” d. Scroll down and double-click on “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).” e. Choose the option “Use the following DNS server addresses” and enter the preferred DNS server addresses. For example, you can use Google DNS with “8.8.8.8” as the preferred DNS server and “8.8.4.4” as the alternate DNS server. f. Click “OK” to save the changes.
Disable Firewall or Antivirus:
Firewalls and antivirus software can sometimes block the connection to the DNS server, causing the error. Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus software and check if the “DNS Server Not Responding” error persists. If the error is resolved after disabling the firewall or antivirus, consider adjusting their settings to allow DNS communication.
Update Network Adapter Drivers:
Outdated or incompatible network adapter drivers can also trigger DNS-related issues. To update your network adapter drivers:a. Press the Windows key + X and select “Device Manager” from the menu. b. Expand the “Network adapters” category. c. Right-click on your network adapter and select “Update driver.” d. Choose the option to automatically search for updated driver software. e. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update process.
Conclusion:
Encountering the “DNS Server Not Responding” error can be frustrating, but with the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to resolve the issue and restore your internet connectivity. Remember to check your internet connection, flush the DNS cache, change DNS server settings, disable firewalls or antivirus temporarily, and update network adapter drivers. By following these steps, you can efficiently fix the error and get back to smooth browsing