A connection to the DNS server is essential for easy web browsing. Here's how to fix an unresponsive DNS server on Windows 11.
DNS or Domain Name System is the decentralized naming system that identifies computers, servers and other resources that the Internet can reach. It basically helps in identifying your PC and incoming traffic. However, you may encounter some errors if your computer fails to access the DNS server.
If you get a "DNS Server Not Responding" error on Windows 11, don't panic. It is still a new system and bugs can affect it from time to time. Simply follow the fixes below and you will get your system backed up in no time.
How to fix DNS server unresponsive error on Windows 11 computer
There are many reasons why you are getting this error. In most cases, your computer cannot establish a connection with the Internet. Sometimes, Windows misidentifies network-related issues as DNS issues, while in some cases it's caused by a third-party app interfering with your connection.
Whatever the reason, you can try the fixes below to resolve the “DNS Server Not Responding” error on Windows 11.
Important reminder: Before trying any solutions, make sure you have a working internet connection. As mentioned, this is usually caused by network-related issues, so it's best to eliminate this cause immediately. If you have internet problems, fix it before going through all these steps.
Disable third party antivirus
If you have a third-party antivirus installed on your computer, such as Avast AVG or McAfee, it could be the reason why you are getting this error. Sometimes, it can interfere with your network and cause various errors like DNS problems.
To check if this is causing the problem, temporarily disable your third-party antivirus software and check if you still have a problem with the DNS server. If it works correctly, the program is likely to be the cause, and you should consider other ways to protect your computer.
You can uninstall it completely and use Windows 11's built-in security program, Microsoft Defender, or wait for a new Windows 11 update and see if it will fix this problem.
Clear your DNS
This is the most popular way to fix most DNS problems, especially if it is due to incorrect settings on your device. Here's how to clear and renew your DNS on Windows 11.
- Open Run while holding down the keys Win + R. Then, type cmd I awarded Submit to open the command prompt.
- At the command prompt, type ipconfig / flushdns I awarded Submit to execute the command.
- Then, type ipconfig / registerdns I awarded Enter.
- Next, type ipconfig / release I awarded Enter.
- Then, type ipconfig / renew I awarded Submit
- Finally, type netsh winsock reset I awarded Enter.
- After typing all the commands, restart your computer. This should correct the DNS error caused by an incorrectly configured setting. If the problem persists, try the following solutions.
Change the DNS on your Windows PC
In some cases, using the network provider's default DNS can cause system problems. If you haven't changed yours yet, we recommend that you switch to a free DNS provider. You can change this from your router settings or from your computer's network card setting. Here are some of the free DNS providers and addresses you can use:
- Google: 8.8.8.8 | 8.8.4.4
- OpenDNS Home: 208.67.222.222 | 208.67.220.220
- CloudFlare: 1.1.1.1 | 1.0.0.1
- Alternate DNS: 76.76.19.19 | 76.223.122.150
- AdGuard DNS: 94.140.14.14 | 94.140.15.15
- Quad9: 9.9.9.9 | 149.112.112.112
Follow the instructions below to change the DNS setting on your Windows 11 computer:
- Keep the keys pressed Windows + I to open the Settings.
- In the Settings app, click “Network and Internet > Wi-Fi > Hardware properties ".
- From the DNS server assignment, click Edit.
- In the Change DNS Settings section, choose Manual from the drop-down menu.
- Depending on the chosen DNS provider, turn on the switch for IP4 or IPV6.
- Then, enter the public DNS you have chosen in the preferred DNS section . Then, type the address in the section Alternate DNS.
- If encryption is available, select it from the option. Then, click Save.
- You now have a new DNS setting on your computer. Check the error and see if your system is working normally.
Update the drivers
If you want to quickly update your computer's essential drivers, you can download and use a. However, if you don't like installing other programs on your computer, you can manually update them using Windows settings. Follow these steps:
- Open Settings by holding down the keys Windows + I.
- Then, click Windows Update , then click the button Check for updates .
- Finally, install all available updates and reboot the system.
- Once your computer starts, check if you are getting the same error.
Boot into Safe Mode
If the problem still persists even after you have done all the troubleshooting steps mentioned above, it is best to restart your PC in Safe Mode. In Safe Mode, Windows will only perform basic settings and remove any settings that may be causing the error. Here's how you can boot into safe mode.
- Open the Start menu and click on the icon Power supply .
- Then, hold down the key Shift and click Restart .
- Under Recovery options, click Troubleshooting
- Then, click Advanced options.
- Under Advanced Options, choose Startup Settings.
- Then, press Restart.
- Then, press 5 o F5 to restart your computer in Safe Mode with Networking. This will also allow you to access the internet even in safe mode.
- After restarting your PC in Safe Mode, test the Internet and see if the problem persists. If not, the DNS error you're experiencing is likely caused by a third-party app or service you're using. Unfortunately, there is no automatic way to determine what the cause is. You have to manually uninstall or disable the app to check which one is causing the problem.
