How to Fix a DNS Server Not Responding
Sometimes when you are loading the website, you get the “DNS server not responding”; this can stop your browsing and streaming. But have you ever wondered why it happens? It can occur because the DNS server is not connected properly. In this short blog, you will learn how to fix a DNS server not responding. Moreover, know why the DNS server is not responding to Wi-Fi in this guide.
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What Is DNS?
DNS Domain Name Server converts the website name to the IP address, so the computer can read it easily and show you the exact platform that you are searching for.
You can learn more about DNS from here: What Is a DNS?
What Is a DNS Server Not Responding Error?
You might have seen the “DNS Server not Responding” message that comes up anytime while you are streaming or browsing on the internet. There isn’t only one reason for this, but there are several reasons for that DNS server is not responding.
The reason for the DNS not responding error message:
- Internet Issue: Since the internet connection is not always stable, the DNS server is not responding. Any sudden internet slowdown or problem can cause this error.
- Old DNS Settings: Always add the correct DNS settings if you have entered them incorrectly, as it’s difficult for the computer to fetch the right website. Moreover, this typically occurs when settings are changed manually.
- Network or Adapter Issues: If your router or network adapter isn’t working properly, your internet will not work efficiently. On accessing the website, you will get the DNS not responding error.
- Firewall & Antivirus Blocks: However, Firewall or antivirus programs keep your browsing secure and block DNS requests to prevent access to non-secure websites. This is a reason why the DNS Server Is not responding.
- Public DNS Server Load: One reason DNS may not respond is the overload of the DNS server. It occurs when a large number of users simultaneously request the same server. Moreover, it happens in Public DNS servers, which include Google’s DNS and Cloudflare.
How to Fix the DNS Server Not Responding Error?
Don’t panic if you are getting a ” DNS Server not responding ” message; here are some troubleshooting ways that will help you fix this issue, and then you can browse the platform:
Restart your devices
Start restarting with both devices, the router and your PC, this will refresh both, and when you again access the site from the browser, you won’t get the DNS not responding ” error. Moreover, this error can also occur when your system’s memory is near full, and any minor glitch can be a reason.
Use Another Device/Browser
Another way is to switch browsers and access the website on another browser. Additionally, you can also test the site on another device’s browser to determine the actual issue. If it does not work on the browser and perfectly works on a device, then the issue is with your browser and vice versa.
Flush DNS cache
DNS cache is the data of DNS stored in memory. If this data gets old and outdated, accessing it will show you an error. To get refreshed data by clearing the cache from the DNS server on both macOS and Windows, here is the method for it:
Flush DNS Cache From Windows
- Press Windows+R on the keyboard.
- Run Windows will appear, and type cmd, then click OK.
- Type ipconfig /flushdns, press Enter.
- A message will appear that “DNS cache has been successfully cleared.”
Flush DNS Cache From MacOS
- Search for terminal.
- Type the command to clear DNS cache; these commands varies to the operating mac OS you are using.
- Press Enter, now you will get the refreshed data.
Also Read: What is a DNS Cache & How to Flush DNS Cache?
Change DNS Address
ISP provides the DNS server, and if you are accessing the website from the provided server, you get a DNS not responding server, then you won’t access the site. Google offers a free DNS server, and some other companies also offer free DNS servers, which you can use.
Here is how you can change the DNS server address on different devices:
On Windows
These are the steps to make changes to your DNS settings from Windows 10 and 11:
- Open run Window by clicking Windows+R.
- Type ncpa.cpl and Enter.
- The list of network connections will appear. Click right on the network you are using.
- Select Properties and click on TCP/IPv4, then click Properties.
- Now Enter the DNS address.
On macOS
Here are the steps to help you to modify DNS settings on macOS:
- From the Apple menu, click on Settings.
- From Networks, select your Network.
- Click Details and go to the DNS section.
- Click the plus button to add the servers, then click OK.
On Andriod
From the given methods, change your DNS address simply:
- Go to Settings and then to Network & Internet.
- Select the Wi-Fi which is in your use.
- Go to Advanced settings and change your UP to static
- Edit DNS settings.
On iOS
Edit DNS settings from iOS, from the given steps, when you are getting a DNS not responding error:
- From iOS settings, go to Wi-Fi.
- Click on the “i” icon, which is next to yoru Wi-Fi.
- Tap on Configure DNS, and choose manual.
- Edit the DNS server address and save changes.
How Does iProVPN Protect From DNS Leaks?
When you access the site, the request is leaked as this request goes to your ISP instead of the VPN server. This is called DNS leaks. Here is how using iProVPN will protect you from DNS leaks:
- Encrypts DNS Requests: iProVPN hides all your browsing and keeps you anonymous, so that your ISP won’t know about it.
- Data through the right path: It helps to send all your DNS requests through a secure VPN server, so there will be no DNS leaks.
- Protects on Public Networks: iProVPN will provide you with security on Public Wi-Fi, protecting you from online attackers from interfering with your DNS server.
Conclusion
DNS server not responding error is one you have once faced while online browsing. Sometimes it can even happen if your internet is turned on. Moreover, you can see this error on any device, may ot be your PC, Phone or Laptop. Some common issues are an unstable internet and device issues. Follow the methods given in the blog to resolve the error.
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DNS Server Not Responding - FAQs
- How do you fix DNS server not responding
There are some methods that you can follow, including restarting your devices and routers, checking on browsers and other devices. Moreover, you can also Flush DNS cache.
- What does a DNS server not responding mean?
A DNS server not responding means that the site you are accessing, your computer, can’t fetch the result as it is unable to translate the website domain.
- Does DNS not responding error occur on both the 10 and 11 window
Yes, it can occur on both Windows versions; additionally, both have the same troubleshooting methods.
- What is 8.8.8.8?
8.8.8.8 is a free DNS server by Google. When you are unable to access the website on a browser, you can use this.
- DNS server not responding to WiFi Android?
For this error on Android, you can refresh your internet and turn DNS to auto. Moreover, you can also use Google’s DNS server.
