How to Troubleshoot When the DNS Server Isn’t Responding

Seeing a “DNS server isn’t responding” error message can stop you from using your internet connection. This problem means the device you have can’t talk to the system that changes website names into numbers called IP addresses. But you do not need to worry, because you can fix this error message. In this guide, you will find tips that range from simply restarting your device to more technical steps, such as clearing your DNS cache. These steps help you fix the DNS error, restore your internet connection, and get back online quickly.

Understanding DNS and Its Role in Internet Connectivity

The Domain Name System (DNS) works like a digital phonebook for the internet. It helps your network connections get to the right places when you go online. Without it, you would need to remember the numbers, called IP addresses, to visit each site instead of just using the domain name.

Knowing how your Domain Name System settings work is important if you want to fix any errors you might have. When the Domain Name System has a problem, your browser won’t find the server of the website. This can lead to a connection error. The next parts will tell you what a DNS server is and how it works.

What Is a DNS Server?

A DNS server is a computer that maintains a list of public IP addresses and the corresponding hostnames. When you type a domain name, like example.com, into your web browser, the DNS server finds the right IP address for you, such as 192.0.2.1. This is needed because computers have to use numbers called IP addresses to talk to each other on the internet.

You can think of the Domain Name System server like a phonebook for the internet. You do not need to remember all the numbers. You type in the easy-to-remember domain name, and the Domain Name System server finds the number, or IP address, for you.

Sometimes, you might see a “DNS server not responding” message. This means your device cannot find the Domain Name System server, or your device cannot get to the internet. It can happen for different reasons, like if the DNS server itself is down, if your network has a problem, or if wrong DNS records are used. When this happens, your browser is trying to connect online but cannot get the number it needs from the phonebook.

How DNS Translates Domain Names to IP Addresses

The process of changing a domain name to an IP address is called a DNS lookup. When you type a URL, your computer sends a request to a DNS resolver. Your internet service provider usually runs this. The resolver tries to find the correct IP address for the website.

First, the request goes to a root DNS server. The root server points the request to a top-level DNS server, for example, for .com or .org. From there, the TLD server sends the query to the authoritative Domain Name System server for that domain name. The authoritative DNS server has the official records. One important Domain Name System record is called the A record, and it keeps the right IP address.

When the authoritative server finds the IP address, it sends it back to your browser. Now, your browser uses this IP address to connect to the website’s server. This whole exchange happens in just milliseconds. It makes your experience on the web smooth and fast. If anything breaks in this process, it can cause errors.

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Common Causes of the “DNS Server Isn’t Responding” Error

The “DNS server not responding” message can happen for a few reasons. Sometimes, it’s because of problems with your device. Other times, it can be something wrong with the DNS server you are trying to connect to. Network issues or software mistakes on your device are common causes.

Knowing what can cause the problem helps a lot with fixing it. It could be a bad cable, wrong settings, or even an issue with your internet service provider. Once you figure out what’s wrong, you can fix it and get back online. Now, let’s look at some of the most common causes that might lead to this DNS server not responding error.

Network Connectivity Issues

Sometimes, the issue is not with the DNS server. It can be your own internet connection causing the problem. Basic connectivity issues may stop your device from talking to the DNS server, so you get errors when you try to get online. Before you try harder fixes, make sure the cables, your router, and network hardware are all working well.

These problems can show up as random drops in your connection or no internet access at all. Have you checked your physical setup? Even a loose Ethernet cable can break the network signal and lead to this error. If you are using wireless, try running wireless checks to see if there is signal trouble or anything else wrong.

Common network connectivity issues include:

• Faulty Ethernet cables: Damaged or loose cables can break your connection.
• Wireless interference: Thick walls, distance to your router, or other electronics can make your Wi-Fi signal weak.
• Router or modem glitches: Your router might just need a quick restart to clear up simple issues.

Misconfigured DNS Server Settings

Incorrect DNS server settings on your computer are a common cause of this problem. If your device uses the wrong Domain Name System server address, it will not be able to look up websites the right way. This often happens when someone changes the Domain Name System server settings by hand, after recent software updates, or if your ISP sends out wrong settings.

You can check and edit your Domain Name System server settings using the control panel in the operating system, like Windows. The settings are found in the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) properties of your network connection.

Making sure these settings are right is a big step when you have trouble getting online. If your ISP’s DNS server goes down, you can swap it for an alternate server, such as Google or Cloudflare. You can choose a preferred DNS server and a backup to help keep your internet working.

Firewall, Antivirus, or Security Software Interference

Your security software helps keep you safe. Sometimes, it can work too hard and block things it shouldn’t. Your firewall or antivirus software may see normal DNS server traffic as a possible danger and stop it. When this happens, your device can’t finish Domain Name System lookups, and you might see the “DNS server not responding” message.

Many apps with network protection and threat protection watch all the traffic. They check what comes in and what goes out. If they use strong filters, it can mess with regular internet use. So, it’s good to ask if your security tool is causing the problem.

You can check this by turning off your firewall and antivirus software for a short time. If the error does not show up, you know what caused it. Then, turn your protection back on. You may need to change some settings for DNS server traffic.

ISP Outages or Restrictions

The problem may not be with your equipment. Sometimes, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) has issues with the network connections on their side. For example, if the DNS server from your ISP goes down or there is a lot of traffic, your internet access could stop working.

This often happens when you see that you are connected to Wi-Fi, but you cannot visit any websites. In this case, your device and the wifi seem fine. But your ISP’s Domain Name System server is down, so you cannot get to the internet. When this happens, there is not much you can do to fix their system.

Still, there are some things you can try. You can go to your ISP’s website or social media, if you still have some internet access, to check if they have posted about an outage. Many ISPs share updates about these problems. You can also change your settings to use a public DNS server. This can help you get back to the internet by not using your ISP’s DNS server. It is a simple way to fix internet access issues when your ISP’s server is down.

Identifying Symptoms and Diagnosing the Error

The first thing you need to do is figure out what the problem is. The main sign of trouble is a DNS error message that shows up in your browser when you try to go to a website. The way this error message looks may change, but the main thing is always this: your device can’t get an answer from the Domain Name System server.

Seeing the exact error message on your screen can help you guess what caused it. You can also use your computer’s network diagnostics to see if the problem is with the Domain Name System server and not something else. The next parts will show what these error messages look like and how troubleshooting with DNS error messages and network diagnostics can be different on each device.

Typical Error Messages Across Devices

While the underlying issue is the same, the exact DNS error message you see can differ depending on your operating system and web browser. For example, Google Chrome is known for being very specific with its error reports, while other browsers might provide a more generic “cannot connect” message.

Understanding these variations can help you confirm that you are indeed dealing with a DNS problem. Although the phrasing may change, they all point to a failure in the domain name resolution process.

Here are some typical error messages you might encounter:

Differences Between PC and Mac Troubleshooting

While some steps to fix problems are the same for everyone, the exact way you solve DNS errors depends on your operating system. On Windows and Mac, these steps are not in the same place. The user interface, command prompt, tools, and system settings change from one operating system to another, so you will need to use guides made for your own computer.

For instance, if you are on a Windows PC, you can flush the Domain Name System cache with the ipconfig command in the command prompt. If you use a Mac, you open up Terminal and type a different command. This command may be different if you use older macOS versions.

There is another big difference when you update a network adapter’s drivers. On Windows, you have to go into the Device Manager, then find and update those drivers yourself. Old or bad network adapter drivers can stop you from going online. If you use a Mac, driver updates come with system updates, so Mac users do not usually have to update drivers by hand.

Beginner’s Guide: Getting Started with DNS Troubleshooting

Starting DNS troubleshooting may look hard at first, but the best fixes are often simple. Before you change anything, be sure to get the tools you need. It is also smart to know a few basic ways to keep everything safe. This small step can help make things go more easily and keep problems away.

This guide will show you what to do, from clearing your Domain Name System cache to updating your network drivers. If you have the right tools and know what to watch out for, you can solve the problem with more confidence and not make new mistakes.

What You’ll Need Before You Begin (Equipment & Resources)

You do not need a lot of special tools to fix DNS issues. Most of the time, you can use the software that comes with your computer. But it is good to have a few things ready before you start. This can make the steps in this guide quicker and easier for you to follow.

When you are ready, you can move through each step without stopping. Do you know how to open and use the tools that manage your computer? If you can do this before you begin, it will help you a lot.

Here is a short list of what you should have ready:

• Administrator access to your computer so you can change network settings and use commands.
• A way to reach your internet router so you can restart it if needed.
• Knowledge of your operating system (like Windows 10 or macOS Ventura) so you can follow the right instructions for you.
• Access to the Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac).

Safety Precautions When Making Network Changes

When you start to change network settings, be sure to take some safety tips. Most steps in this guide are safe, but making the wrong changes can sometimes cause more connectivity issues. A bit of care now can help you avoid problems later.

The aim is to solve the issues, not make new ones. It is always a good idea to back up or write down your current settings first. That way, you can go back to your original setup if something does not work the way you want.

Follow these simple steps for better network protection:

• Save your work: Save all your files before you restart your computer or router so you don’t lose any data.
• Note current settings: Always write down your current DNS server addresses before you change them. This helps you switch back if needed.
• Restart in Safe Mode: When you think a program might be causing a problem, you can boot in safe mode. This way, you set up a secure way to find what’s wrong.

• How do I fix a DNS server not responding problem?

  Re-enable security: If you turn off your firewall or antivirus to test something, do not forget to turn it back on right away after testing.To fix a DNS server not responding problem, start by restarting your router and checking physical connections. Then, clear your browser cache and flush the Domain Name System cache using the command prompt commands. If issues persist, consider switching to public Domain Name System servers like Google (8.8.8.8) for improved reliability.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix the “DNS Server Isn’t Responding” Error

Now it is time to fix the DNS error on your internet connection. The steps to troubleshoot this problem are listed from the easiest to the most hard. Start with the first step. Then go down the list until you get to a potential solution that works for you. This is the fastest way to figure out the problem and fix it.

Do not worry if some steps look hard. Each step is explained simply. Almost anyone can do them. By using this guide, you can check the common causes of this issue and get your internet connection working again.

Step 1: Try a Different Web Browser

Before you change any network settings, start by trying a different web browser. The problem may not be with your network. It could be your default browser causing it. Every browser has its own cache. If your browser has old or wrong DNS details saved, that can make this error happen.

Using another browser helps. It does not use the old cache and tries the connection fresh. If the website works in a different browser, then it’s likely there is an issue with your main browser’s settings or its cache.

Here’s what to do:

• If you use Google Chrome all the time, open the site in Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft Edge.
• If the site opens fine, the problem is with your default browser.
• Try deleting your browser’s cache and cookies.
• If that is not enough, update your browser to the latest version. If that also fails, you can reinstall it.

This simple fix can save you time and help you determine if the error is from your web browser or something else.

Step 2: Test Connectivity on Another Device

If changing your browser did not help, the next thing to do is see if the issue is only with your computer. Try to open the same website on a different device, such as another laptop or a phone, that is connected to the same Wi-Fi. This can help you find out if the trouble comes from the device itself or from your internet connection.

If the website opens on the other device, then your first computer is the problem. If it does not work on any device, then your router or your internet service may be the cause.

Here’s how to do this:

• Take a different device, like a phone or a tablet.
• Connect it to the same Wi-Fi network and try to open the website.
• If you can, switch your phone to mobile data and see if the site works. If it works now, your local internet connection might have the issue.
• If you can, check the website on both a Wi-Fi and a wired Ethernet connection to help find out where the problem is.

Step 3: Restart Your Router and Computer

One of the easiest and best ways to fix problems is to restart your hardware. When you restart your internet router and computer, it can clear out so many small glitches, bad cache data, and other things that cause the Domain Name System error. People call this method a power cycle.

Restarting your gear helps flush the DNS cache on the router, gives your device a new IP address, and gets a new network connection to your internet service provider. If you think this is too plain to work, you may find it helps with many network problems.

Here is how you can do it:

• Turn off your computer and your internet router. Hit the power button if there is one, then unplug both from the wall.
• Wait for 30 seconds so they can fully power down.
• Plug the router back in first. Wait for all the lights on it to stop blinking and become steady.
• Next, turn your computer on and see if you can go online.

Step 4: Temporarily Disable Antivirus and Firewall

Sometimes, your antivirus software or firewall can get in the way of your internet connection. One thing you can do is turn these off for a short time to check if this helps with the DNS error. This step helps you figure out what’s wrong. Make sure you turn your protection back on when you are done.

If the problem goes away after you disable them, you may need to change some settings in your antivirus software. Add your browser or DNS traffic as an exception. This way, you still get network protection, but your connection will not get blocked.

Here’s what to do:

• Find your antivirus software and firewall settings. If you use Windows, go to “Windows Security.”
• Turn both programs off for now.
• Try to visit the website again.
• If everything works, turn your security back on. Then look in the settings for something about network filtering or application control and make changes there. Booting into Safe Mode with networking can help you check if other software is causing the trouble.

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Step 5: Flush DNS Cache and Renew IP Address

Your computer keeps a local DNS cache for DNS lookups. This helps it get to sites quicker the next time you go to them. But if the DNS cache gets old or not wrong, you can get Domain Name System errors. To fix this, you need to flush the DNS cache and renew your IP address. This tells your computer to get new data from your network.

You do this with the command prompt if you use Windows, or the terminal if you use a Mac. The steps below will clear the old info and give your network interface a new setup.

Here’s how to do it:

• On Windows: Open Command Prompt as an administrator. Type ipconfig/flushdns and press Enter. Then, type ipconfig/release followed by ipconfig/renew.
• On Mac: Open the Terminal. The command you use may depend on your version of macOS, but for new ones, type sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder, then press Enter.
• This updates the DNS configuration for your network interface.
• Restart your computer so the updates work properly.

Step 6: Change DNS Server Settings (Windows & Mac)

If you find that your ISP’s DNS server does not work well or is down, you can change your DNS server settings manually. You can use a free DNS server from a public provider instead. Google (8.8.8.8) and Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) are well-liked, as many people find them to be fast and good any time they use them. This kind of Domain Name System change may solve Domain Name System issues for you, especially if they stick around.

You will need to go to your network settings in your system. There, you can enter the new DNS server address details. You have to type pick one preferred DNS server and one alternate DNS server.

Here’s how you can make a switch:

• On Windows: Start by going to “network connections.” Click your active link and go to properties. Find “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” in the list. Put in your new DNS server address next to preferred and alternate.
• On Mac: Open up “System Settings,” and go into “network.” Choose your current network. Hit “details,” then the “DNS” tab. Use the ‘+’ sign to plug in new DNS server settings for both preferred and alternate.
• Some public dns server picks: Google (Preferred: 8.8.8.8, Alternate: 8.8.4.4) and Cloudflare (Preferred: 1.1.1.1)

Step 7: Update Network Adapter Drivers

Your computer uses a network adapter to connect to the internet. The network adapter needs driver software to talk to the operating system. When the driver software is old, damaged, or does not match, the computer can have connectivity issues. DNS errors are one problem that can come up because of this.

On Windows, you can update your network adapter driver to fix these issues. You can do this in the Device Manager or by checking Windows Update. Updating the driver gives your computer the latest version that comes with bug fixes and better performance.

Here’s how to update your network adapter driver on Windows:

• Open the “Device Manager” from the Start menu.
• Expand the “Network adapters” section.
• Right-click on your network adapter and select “Update driver.”
• Choose “Search automatically for drivers” so Windows can look for the latest version. You can also check Windows Update for extra driver updates.

Step 8: Disable IPv6 and Unused Network Connections

Sometimes, new network protocols or extra connections can cause problems. Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6) is the latest version of the Internet Protocol, but not every network or website supports it yet. This may cause DNS issues. If you turn off IPv6, your system will use the more common IPv4.

Also, if you have two or more active network connections, like Wi-Fi and Ethernet, your system may get confused. It is better to disable any extra connections. This way, all traffic will use just your main connection.

You can change these settings in the network advanced options:

• Disable IPv6: In your network connection properties, take the checkmark out from “Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6).”
• Disable Unused Connections: Go to the “Network Connections” window, right-click any unused or secondary connections, and pick “Disable.”
• You can do this on Windows and Mac using their network settings panels.
• Be sure to restart your computer after these changes to see if the error is fixed.

Conclusion

To sum up, fixing DNS server problems may seem hard at first. But if you know the common causes and follow a step-by-step plan, you can sort out these issues in time. Try different devices. Change settings as needed. You can also restart your network equipment. If you know what steps to take, you will be able to work through these problems with more confidence. If you ever feel stuck or can’t solve the issue yourself, it is okay to ask for help. Reach out to Vision Computer Solutions. Their expert team is here to guide you with any DNS server problems and make sure you stay connected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can changing my DNS settings resolve the error?

Yes, changing your DNS settings is a good way to fix the problem. You can go to your network settings and change the preferred DNS server and the alternate DNS server. Many people use public providers like Google or Cloudflare for this. This helps you get around problems with your ISP’s servers and often fixes the error right away.

Does firewall or antivirus software cause DNS issues?

Yes, a firewall or antivirus software can be the reason for DNS issues. These programs sometimes block Domain Name System traffic by mistake. This can happen when they try to give network protection or threat protection. To find out if this is the problem, you can turn them off for a short time. This will help you see if they are causing the trouble.

What should I do if my WiFi is connected but DNS isn’t responding?

If your WiFi is working but you see a DNS error, the problem is usually with the Domain Name System server. It is not caused by your own network. Try some simple fixes. You can flush the DNS cache, restart the router, or switch to a public DNS server. Sometimes, the issue happens because the ISP has an outage.

Are troubleshooting steps different for Windows and Mac?

Although the main ideas do not change, Mac and Windows use different steps. For instance, each system uses its own terminal commands. The way you get to network settings is not the same on the two platforms. The way you update a network adapter driver is also different for each one.

How Vision Computer Solutions Can Help with DNS Issues

If you have tried all these steps but still have DNS issues, Vision Computer Solutions is here to help. Our expert technicians can use advanced DNS troubleshooting to find and fix the main problem fast. This helps cut down your wait time and stress, so you can get back to work soon.

Professional DNS Troubleshooting Services

Vision Computer Solutions offers expert DNS troubleshooting help for businesses. Our team can fix things like wrong settings or hard network problems, and will make sure your connection works well all the time. We give you professional support so you can be back online fast.

Ongoing Support and Preventive Solutions

Vision Computer Solutions does more than just give you a one-time fix. The team can support you all the time and help stop problems before they happen. You get managed IT services, which means there is proactive network protection and monitoring. This can help keep future DNS issues from getting in the way of your business.

Zachary McGraw

Zak McGraw, Digital Marketing Manager at Vision Computer Solutions in the Detroit Metro Area, shares tips on MSP services, cybersecurity, and business tech.