Is your Windows 11 PC struggling with DNS server problems? You’re not alone! DNS issues can cause slow internet, websites not loading, or annoying “DNS server not responding” errors. But don’t worry — fixing these problems is easier than you might think. This guide will walk you through practical, easy-to-follow steps to solve DNS server problems in Windows 11 and get you back online quickly.
What is a DNS Server and Why Does It Matter?
Before diving into fixes, let’s quickly understand what DNS (Domain Name System) is. DNS acts like the internet’s phone book — it translates website names like www.google.com into IP addresses that computers can understand. When your DNS server isn’t working right, your PC can’t find websites properly, causing connection issues.
Common Signs of DNS Server Problems in Windows 11
- Websites won’t load even though your internet is connected
- “DNS server not responding” error messages
- Slow browsing or intermittent connectivity
- Can connect to websites by IP address but not by name
How to Fix DNS Server Problems in Windows 11
1. Restart Your Router and PC
Sometimes, DNS issues can be temporary glitches caused by your router or computer.
- Turn off your router/modem and unplug it for 30 seconds
- Restart your Windows 11 PC
- Turn your router back on and reconnect
This simple step often fixes minor DNS hiccups.
2. Flush DNS Cache
Your computer stores DNS info temporarily, and if this cache gets corrupted, you can run into problems.
-
Press Windows key + S and type
cmd -
Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator
-
Type the following command and press Enter:
ipconfig /flushdns
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You’ll see a confirmation message saying the DNS cache is cleared
3. Change to a Public DNS Server
Your current DNS server provided by your ISP might be slow or down. Try switching to a reliable public DNS like Google’s or Cloudflare’s:
- Press Windows key + I to open Settings
- Go to Network & internet > Advanced network settings > More network adapter options
- Right-click your active network and select Properties
- Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties
- Select Use the following DNS server addresses:
- Preferred DNS server:
8.8.8.8(Google DNS) - Alternate DNS server:
8.8.4.4
- Preferred DNS server:
- (Alternatively, use Cloudflare DNS:
1.1.1.1and1.0.0.1) - Click OK and restart your internet connection
4. Reset TCP/IP Stack
If DNS issues persist, resetting the TCP/IP stack can help clear network-related problems:
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Open Command Prompt as administrator (see step 2)
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Run these commands one by one:
netsh int ip reset
netsh winsock reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew -
Restart your PC and check your connection
5. Disable IPv6 (If Applicable)
Sometimes IPv6 interferes with DNS resolution:
- Open Network Connections (search for it via Start menu)
- Right-click your active adapter and choose Properties
- Uncheck Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)
- Click OK and restart your PC
6. Temporarily Disable Firewall and Antivirus
Security software might block DNS traffic by mistake:
- Temporarily disable your firewall and antivirus (be cautious and only do this to test)
- Check if your DNS problem is resolved
- Re-enable your protection afterward
- If this fixes your problem, update your security software or adjust its settings
Final Thoughts
DNS server problems in Windows 11 can be frustrating, but usually, a simple tweak can get you back online quickly. Start with a quick router and PC reboot, flush your DNS cache, then consider switching to public DNS servers if needed. If you’re still stuck, don’t hesitate to seek professional tech support.
Keep these tips handy — and remember, the internet should be smooth sailing, not a DNS maze!
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If you found this helpful, feel free to share it with friends who might be facing those pesky DNS problems on Windows 11! Need more help? Just ask!
