DNS Not Working on Windows 11: Troubleshooting Guide

Experiencing DNS issues on Windows 11 can be frustrating, preventing you from accessing websites and online services. This guide provides comprehensive troubleshooting steps to resolve DNS problems and restore your internet connectivity.

Understanding DNS and Its Importance

DNS (Domain Name System) translates human-readable domain names (like google.com) into IP addresses that computers use to communicate. When DNS fails, your computer can’t find the server associated with a website, resulting in errors like “DNS server not responding” or “This site can’t be reached.”

Common Causes of DNS Problems in Windows 11

Several factors can contribute to DNS issues:

  • Incorrect DNS server settings: Your computer might be configured to use an invalid or non-responsive DNS server.
  • DNS cache corruption: Cached DNS data can become outdated or corrupted, leading to resolution failures.
  • Network adapter problems: Issues with your network adapter or driver can interfere with DNS resolution.
  • Firewall or antivirus interference: Security software might be blocking DNS traffic.
  • Router problems: Issues with your router’s DNS settings can affect all devices on your network.
  • ISP issues: Your Internet Service Provider might be experiencing DNS server outages.

Troubleshooting Steps: Fixing DNS Issues in Windows 11

Follow these steps in order, testing your internet connection after each to see if the problem is resolved.

1. Restart Your Computer and Router

This simple step can often resolve temporary glitches. Restart both your computer and your router to refresh their configurations.

2. Flush the DNS Cache

Flushing the DNS cache clears out outdated or corrupted DNS entries. To do this:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
  3. You should see a message confirming the DNS Resolver Cache was successfully flushed.

3. Reset TCP/IP

Resetting TCP/IP can resolve network connectivity issues, including DNS problems.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Type netsh int ip reset and press Enter.
  3. Restart your computer.

4. Change DNS Server Addresses

Using public DNS servers like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS can improve reliability and speed. Here’s how to change your DNS server addresses:

  1. Open Settings (Windows key + I).
  2. Go to Network & internet.
  3. Click on Wi-Fi or Ethernet, depending on your connection type.
  4. Click on Hardware properties.
  5. Find DNS server assignment and click Edit.
  6. Select Manual from the dropdown.
  7. Turn on IPv4.
  8. Enter the following DNS server addresses:
    • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8 (Google DNS)
    • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4 (Google DNS) OR
    • Preferred DNS server: 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare DNS)
    • Alternate DNS server: 1.0.0.1 (Cloudflare DNS)
  9. Click Save.

5. Disable and Re-enable Network Adapter

Disabling and re-enabling your network adapter can refresh its configuration.

  1. Open Device Manager (search for it in the Start menu).
  2. Expand Network adapters.
  3. Right-click on your network adapter and select Disable device.
  4. Wait a few seconds, then right-click again and select Enable device.

6. Update Network Adapter Driver

An outdated or corrupted network adapter driver can cause DNS problems. To update it:

  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. Expand Network adapters.
  3. Right-click on your network adapter and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers and follow the on-screen instructions.

7. Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Your firewall or antivirus software might be blocking DNS traffic. Temporarily disable them (one at a time) to see if that resolves the issue. If it does, you’ll need to configure your firewall or antivirus to allow DNS traffic (port 53).

8. Run the Windows Network Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in network troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix common network problems, including DNS issues.

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Go to System -> Troubleshoot -> Other troubleshooters.
  3. Click Run next to Internet Connections or Network Adapter.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

9. Check Your Router’s DNS Settings

Access your router’s configuration page (usually by typing its IP address in your web browser – check your router’s manual). Look for DNS settings and ensure they are set to automatically obtain DNS server addresses or are using reliable public DNS servers.

10. Contact Your ISP

If none of the above steps work, the problem might be with your ISP’s DNS servers. Contact your ISP to inquire about potential outages or DNS issues on their end.

Preventing Future DNS Problems

  • Keep your network adapter drivers updated.
  • Regularly flush your DNS cache.
  • Use reliable DNS server addresses.
  • Ensure your firewall and antivirus software are properly configured.
  • Keep your router’s firmware updated.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve most DNS problems on Windows 11 and restore your internet connectivity.