How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding Error on Windows

Symptoms

When your computer cannot resolve domain names to IP addresses, you may encounter the following symptoms:

• Websites fail to load in browsers (e.g., Chrome, Edge, Firefox).
• Error message: 'DNS server not responding' or 'DNS probe finished no internet'.
• Other network services like email or online gaming may also fail.
• Pinging a domain name (e.g., ping google.com) returns 'Ping request could not find host'.
• IP addresses work directly (e.g., pinging 8.8.8.8 succeeds).

Root Causes

The 'DNS server not responding' error can be caused by several factors:

• Incorrect DNS settings: Your computer may be configured with wrong or outdated DNS server addresses.
• Corrupted DNS cache: A corrupt local DNS cache can cause resolution failures.
• Network adapter issues: Outdated or faulty network drivers may interfere with DNS queries.
• Router/modem problems: Your router might have a DNS issue or need a reboot.
• ISP DNS outage: Your Internet Service Provider's DNS servers may be temporarily down.
• Firewall or security software: Overly restrictive firewall rules can block DNS traffic.

Step-by-Step Fix

Step 1: Restart Your Router and Computer

1. Unplug the power cable from your router and modem.
2. Wait 30 seconds, then plug them back in.
3. Restart your computer completely.
4. Test if the issue is resolved.

Step 2: Flush DNS Cache

1. Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open Command Prompt as administrator.
2. Run the following commands one by one:

   ipconfig /flushdns
   ipconfig /registerdns
   ipconfig /release
   ipconfig /renew
   netsh winsock reset

3. Restart your computer.

Step 3: Change DNS Server to Google Public DNS

1. Open Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings.
2. Right-click your active network connection and select Properties.
3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
4. Select Use the following DNS server addresses and enter:
   Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
   Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
5. Click OK and close all windows.
6. Run ipconfig /flushdns again in Command Prompt.

Step 4: Reset Network Settings

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
2. Run the following commands:

   netsh int ip reset
   netsh int ipv6 reset
   netsh int tcp reset

3. Restart your computer.

Step 5: Update Network Adapter Drivers

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Network adapters.
3. Right-click your network adapter and select Update driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for drivers.
5. Reboot after installation.

Alternative Fixes

• Disable IPv6: In network adapter properties, uncheck 'Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)'.
• Use Command Prompt to reset Winsock: Run netsh winsock reset catalog and reboot.
• Check firewall settings: Temporarily disable Windows Defender Firewall or third-party antivirus to test.
• Power cycle modem/router: Unplug for 5 minutes, then reconnect.
• Use another device: Test if the issue is isolated to your computer or affects the entire network.

Prevention

• Regularly flush DNS cache: Run ipconfig /flushdns weekly to prevent corruption.
• Use reliable DNS servers: Configure Google (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) DNS as a backup.
• Keep network drivers updated: Check for updates monthly via Device Manager or manufacturer website.
• Restart router periodically: Reboot your router every few weeks to clear temporary glitches.
• Monitor ISP health: Contact your ISP if DNS issues recur frequently.