Overview
DNS (Domain Name System) translates website names into IP addresses. If DNS stops working, websites may load slowly, fail to load, or show errors even when your internet connection is working. This guide covers the most common DNS issues and how to fix them.
Common symptoms
- Websites not loading
- “DNS server not responding” errors
- Only some websites fail to load
- Slow website loading despite normal speed tests
- Frequent “Page cannot be reached” messages
Possible causes
- Faulty DNS server from your ISP
- Corrupted DNS cache
- Router DNS issues
- Incorrect network settings
- VPN or security software interference
Step 1 – Restart your router
- Unplug your router and modem.
- Wait 30 seconds.
- Plug the modem back in and wait for it to fully start.
- Plug the router back in and wait for it to fully start.
Step 2 – Flush DNS cache
- Press Start, type cmd.
- Right‑click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
- Type:
ipconfig /flushdns - Press Enter.
Step 3 – Change your DNS server
Switching to a public DNS server often fixes loading issues.
- Open Settings > Network & Internet.
- Select your connection and choose Edit DNS.
- Switch to Manual.
- Enter:
Preferred: 8.8.8.8
Alternate: 8.8.4.4
Step 4 – Reset network settings
- Open Settings.
- Go to Network & Internet.
- Select Advanced network settings.
- Choose Network reset.
Step 5 – Disable VPN or security software temporarily
VPNs and firewalls can block DNS requests. Disable them briefly to test.
Step 6 – Check your hosts file
If the hosts file contains incorrect entries, websites may not load.
- Press Start and type Notepad.
- Right‑click and choose Run as administrator.
- Open:
C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts - Look for unusual entries and remove them if needed.
Step 7 – Test another device
If DNS issues happen on multiple devices, the problem is likely with your router or ISP.
Step 8 – Contact your ISP
- If DNS issues affect all devices
- If websites load only with public DNS servers
- If outages are reported in your area
