How to Fix 'DNS Server Not Responding' Error on Windows 10/11

The "DNS server not responding" error prevents your computer from translating domain names (like google.com) into IP addresses. Here’s how to resolve it:

What Causes This Error?

• Outdated network drivers
• Incorrect DNS settings
• Firewall/antivirus blocking DNS requests
• Corrupted TCP/IP stack
• ISP-related DNS issues

Method 1: Restart Your Network Devices

Best for: Temporary glitches

1. Turn off your computer, router, and modem
2. Wait 30 seconds
3. Power on modem → router → computer

Method 2: Use Windows Network Troubleshooter

Best for: Quick automated fixes

1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status
2. Click Network Troubleshooter
3. Follow prompts to detect/fix issues

Method 3: Change DNS Server Manually

Best for: Persistent DNS resolution issues

1. Open Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center
2. Click your active network connection > Properties
3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) > Properties
4. Choose Use the following DNS server addresses:
• Preferred DNS: 8.8.8.8 (Google DNS)
• Alternate DNS: 8.8.4.4

Method 4: Reset TCP/IP Stack

Best for: Corrupted network configurations

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator
2. Run these commands one by one:

                   ipconfig /release
                   ipconfig /renew
                   ipconfig /flushdns
                   netsh int ip reset
                   netsh winsock reset
               

3. Restart your computer

Method 5: Disable IPv6

Best for: Conflicts with modern DNS systems

1. Open Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center
2. Click Change adapter settings
3. Right-click your network adapter > Properties
4. Uncheck Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)

Advanced Fixes

Update Network Drivers

1. Press Win + X > Device Manager
2. Expand Network adapters
3. Right-click your adapter > Update driver

Temporarily Disable Firewall/Antivirus

Some security software blocks DNS requests. Test by disabling them temporarily.

Prevention Tips

• Use a wired connection for stability
• Set up a secondary DNS (e.g., 1.1.1.1 for Cloudflare)
• Schedule regular driver updates

When to Contact Your ISP

If all else fails, your ISP’s DNS servers might be down. Contact support or:

• Ask to reset your modem remotely
• Request a new IP address

FAQ

Does this error affect all browsers?

Yes – it’s a system-level issue, not browser-specific.

How long do fixes take?

Most methods work immediately after restarting your connection.

Why does this keep happening?

Persistent issues point to faulty hardware (router/modem) or ISP problems.

Still stuck? Describe your specific setup in the comments for tailored help!