The DNS Server Isn’t Responding Windows 10: A Comprehensive Guide for Dev

Greetings Dev! In today’s digital age, the internet is an essential tool for all of us. However, there are times when we encounter issues while accessing websites or establishing connectivity. One of the most common problems is the DNS server not responding in Windows 10. This issue can be frustrating, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explain the causes of this issue and provide you with step-by-step solutions to fix it. So let’s get started!

What is a DNS Server?

Before we dive into the solutions, let’s understand what a DNS (Domain Name System) server is. It is a crucial component of the internet infrastructure that translates domain names into IP addresses, allowing devices to communicate with each other over the internet. For instance, when you type a website URL into your browser, the DNS server translates it into an IP address, enabling you to access the website.

What Causes the DNS Server Not Responding Issue in Windows 10?

There are several reasons why the DNS server isn’t responding in Windows 10. It can be due to issues with your network configuration, firewall settings, or DNS server settings. Other possible causes are:

Cause
Description
Outdated Network Drivers
If your network drivers are outdated, they may cause conflicts with the DNS server.
Incorrect DNS Settings
If your DNS server settings are incorrect, you won’t be able to access the internet.
Malware and Viruses
Malware and viruses can interfere with your DNS server settings and cause connectivity issues.
Firewall Restrictions
If your firewall settings are too strict, they may block your DNS server from responding.

How to Fix the DNS Server Isn’t Responding Issue in Windows 10

1. Restart Your Router and Computer

The first and foremost step is to restart your router and computer. This helps refresh the network settings and resolve any connectivity issues. Follow these steps:

  1. Turn off your router and computer.
  2. Wait for 30 seconds.
  3. Turn on your router and wait for it to establish a stable connection.
  4. Turn on your computer and check if the issue is resolved.

2. Flush DNS Cache

Flushing the DNS cache can help resolve the issue by clearing any conflicting or outdated DNS data. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Press the Windows key and X key simultaneously.
  2. Select “Command Prompt (Admin)” from the list of options.
  3. Type “ipconfig /flushdns” in the command prompt and hit Enter.
  4. Wait for the process to complete and restart your computer.

3. Use Google DNS

If your DNS server provider is experiencing issues, you can switch to Google DNS. Here’s how:

  1. Press the Windows key and X key simultaneously.
  2. Select “Network Connections” from the list of options.
  3. Right-click on your active network connection and select “Properties”.
  4. Select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click on “Properties”.
  5. Select “Use the following DNS server addresses”.
  6. Enter the following values:
    • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
    • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
  7. Click “OK” and restart your computer.

4. Disable Your Firewall

If your firewall settings are too strict, they may be blocking your DNS server from responding. You can temporarily disable your firewall and check if the issue is resolved. Here’s how:

  1. Press the Windows key and R key simultaneously.
  2. Type “control panel” and hit Enter.
  3. Select “Windows Defender Firewall” from the options.
  4. Click on “Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off”.
  5. Select “Turn off Windows Defender Firewall” for both public and private networks.
  6. Click “OK” and restart your computer.
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5. Update Your Network Drivers

If your network drivers are outdated, they may be causing conflicts with your DNS server. You can update your network drivers by following these steps:

  1. Press the Windows key and X key simultaneously.
  2. Select “Device Manager” from the list of options.
  3. Expand the “Network adapters” category.
  4. Right-click on your network adapter and select “Update Driver”.
  5. Choose “Search automatically for updated driver software”.
  6. Wait for the process to complete and restart your computer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the DNS Server?

The DNS (Domain Name System) server is a crucial component of the internet infrastructure that translates domain names into IP addresses, allowing devices to communicate with each other over the internet.

Q2. Why Isn’t My DNS Server Responding?

There are several reasons why the DNS server isn’t responding, such as outdated network drivers, incorrect DNS settings, malware and viruses, and firewall restrictions.

Q3. How Can I Fix the DNS Server Isn’t Responding Issue in Windows 10?

You can fix the DNS server isn’t responding issue in Windows 10 by restarting your router and computer, flushing the DNS cache, using Google DNS, disabling your firewall, and updating your network drivers.

Congratulations, Dev! You’ve reached the end of our comprehensive guide on fixing the DNS server isn’t responding issue in Windows 10. We hope that this article has helped you resolve the issue and get back online. If you have any questions or feedback, please let us know in the comments section below. Happy browsing!