If you see a “DNS server not responding” error, your device is connected to the network but cannot translate website names into the correct server addresses. This prevents websites from loading even though your internet connection may appear to be working.
This issue typically occurs when your device, router, or internet service provider (ISP) is unable to communicate with a DNS server. The steps below will help you identify the cause and restore your connection.
This issue is commonly related to DNS errors, network configuration problems, or browser-related issues.
Common Symptoms
• Websites won’t load but Wi-Fi is connected
• “DNS server not responding” error appears
• Pages time out or fail to load
• Internet works on some devices but not others
“If your internet works but websites won’t load, see: Internet Works but Websites Won’t Load”
What Causes This Problem
This problem usually occurs when your device cannot reach a DNS server or receives no response. Common causes include:
• Incorrect DNS settings
• Router or modem issues
• ISP DNS outages
• Firewall or antivirus blocking requests
• Network configuration errors
Step-by-Step Fixes
Restart Your Router and Device
Start with the simplest fix.
Turn off your router and modem, wait about 30 seconds, then turn them back on. Restart your device as well. This clears temporary connection issues and often restores DNS functionality.
Switch to a Public DNS Server
If your ISP’s DNS server is not responding, switching to a public DNS provider can resolve the issue.
You can use:
Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1
Update your network settings to use one of these DNS servers, then test your connection again.
Flush Your DNS Cache
Your device stores DNS information to speed up browsing. If this cache becomes outdated or corrupted, it can cause errors.
On Windows:
Open Command Prompt and type:
ipconfig /flushdns
Press Enter, then try loading a website again.
Disable VPN or Firewall Temporarily
Some VPNs and firewall settings can block DNS requests.
Temporarily disable them and test your connection. If websites start loading, review your settings and adjust them accordingly.
Reset Network Settings
If the problem continues, resetting your network settings can help.
This will restore your network configuration to default and remove any incorrect settings that may be causing DNS failures.
When This Doesn’t Work
If none of these steps resolve the issue, the problem may be outside your control.
• Your ISP may be experiencing DNS outages
• Your router may need a firmware update
• There may be a deeper network configuration issue
In these cases, contacting your ISP or checking their service status may be necessary.
Related Internet & DNS Troubleshooting
• Wi-Fi Connected but No Internet? How to Fix It (Step-by-Step
• Internet Keeps Disconnecting Every Few Minutes
• Connected to Wi-Fi but Pages Load Slowly or Time Out