How to troubleshoot and fix DNS server not responding errors

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to troubleshoot and fix DNS server not responding errors. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

A "DNS server not responding" error occurs when your computer cannot translate a website's domain name (like google.com.au) into an IP address. This means you may have a working internet connection, but your browser cannot find the destination. This guide will help you resolve this issue using standard troubleshooting methods for Windows and macOS.

Quick Fix Steps

Before diving into deeper settings, try these rapid solutions which resolve the majority of DNS conflicts:

• Restart your router: Unplug your modem/router from the power for 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
• Check your connection: Ensure you are properly connected to your network. If you are using wireless, refer to our guide on How to connect to Wi-Fi.
• Try a different browser: Open a different web browser (e.g., switch from Chrome to Edge) to see if the issue is browser-specific.
• Disable VPNs: If you use a VPN for remote work, disconnect it and try loading the page again.

Detailed Instructions for Windows 10 & 11

Flush the DNS Cache

Your computer stores a local list of DNS lookups. If this cache becomes corrupted, it can cause connection errors.

1. Press the Windows Key and type cmd.
2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
3. In the black window, type the following command and press Enter: ipconfig /flushdns
4. You should see a message stating "Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache."

Change your DNS Servers

If your ISP's default DNS servers are experiencing an outage, switching to a public provider like Google or Cloudflare often restores connectivity.

1. Open the Control Panel and go to Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Centre.
2. Click Change adapter settings on the left-hand menu.
3. Right-click your active connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and select Properties.
4. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click the Properties button.
5. Select the radio button Use the following DNS server addresses.
6. Enter the following preferred public DNS addresses:
   • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8 (Google)
   • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4 (Google)
7. Click OK and restart your browser.

Detailed Instructions for macOS

Clear DNS Cache

1. Open Terminal (found in Applications > Utilities).
2. Type the following command and press Enter: sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
3. Enter your Mac administrator password when prompted (you will not see characters as you type) and press Enter.

Change DNS Settings

1. Click the Apple Menu and select System Settings (or System Preferences).
2. Navigate to Network.
3. Select your active connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and click the Details... or Advanced button.
4. Click the DNS tab.
5. Click the + button under the DNS Servers list and add: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4.
6. Click OK and then Apply.

Advanced Troubleshooting

Disable IPv6

In some rare cases, an unstable IPv6 implementation can interfere with DNS resolution.

1. Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Centre > Change adapter settings.
2. Right-click your connection and select Properties.
3. Uncheck the box next to Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6).
4. Click OK and test your connection.

Check Firewall and Antivirus

Over-aggressive security software can sometimes block DNS requests. Try temporarily disabling your third-party antivirus or firewall to see if the web pages load. If they do, you will need to add an exception for your browser in the security software settings.

If you have followed these steps and are still unable to access the internet, please Open a Ticket so our technical team can analyse your connection remotely.

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