DNS, or Domain Name System, serves as a critical component of the Internet, translating readable domain names to IP addresses. Most of us don't even think about DNS where we conduct everyday online activities such as browsing, emailing, or video conferencing. However, if DNS encounters an error, you'll quickly see the impact.
When a DNS server stops working, you'll see a "DNS server not responding" error message. This error can be frustrating and has the potential to disrupt your day-to-day online activities. This blog post provides you with actionable tips and tricks to get the problem fixed quickly.
Before diving into resolving the issue, let's explore how DNS works and what causes errors.
When you type in a domain name, your device sends a request to the DNS server to convert it into an IP address. The DNS server then responds with the correct IP address, allowing your device to connect to the website or server requested.
Several reasons cause DNS issues:
The router plays a significant role in DNS function, including translating domain names into the IP addresses you need to visit websites. However, unexpected router changes to your router, faulty firmware updates, or incorrect DNS settings can cause DNS server not responding error. In such cases, users find themselves on the receiving end of error.
The Internet Service Provider controls the DNS, and if the internet package's DNS settings are not functioning correctly on the server, it'll be difficult to access the website or speed up online tasks. Even the best internet service provider encounters issues such as a DNS server not responding error, and it's up to users to fix it.
Some users choose third-party DNS tools such as Google DNS or OpenDNS to boost network speed, privacy, and security. However, sometimes these tools may not work correctly, leading to DNS server not responding error.
Here are five quick and easy fixes to resolve DNS server not responding issues:
Turn off and unplug the router and modem and wait at least 30 seconds before restarting. Reconnect the cables, power on, and launch your browser to see if it loads the website.
DNS servers have backup IP addresses in case the primary server fails. Changing DNS server addresses might help to fix the problem.
You can Google "public DNS servers" or use popular DNS servers like Google DNS servers—8.8.8.8 or 8.8.4.4, or OpenDNS servers: 208.67.222.222, 208.67.220.220, and 208.67.222.220.
To set up the DNS server in Windows, follow these simple steps:
DNS cache saves website information on your device for easy re-access instead of searching through hundreds of IP addresses when you want to launch a website. When DNS cache is corrupted, it's no surprise that "DNS server not responding" error is the next message you'll see.
To clear the DNS cache, follow these steps:
Sometimes the Windows firewall can interrupt your internet connection. Disabling the Windows firewall is beneficial in troubleshooting DNS server not responding errors. Here's how to do it:
If none of the above fixes work, it's time to call in the experts. At JTG Systems, our team of professionals specializes in fixing all kinds of technological glitches and malfunctions. We are located at 577 Niagara Street in Welland, Ontario, and you can call (905) 892-4555 for help.
DNS server not responding error can be annoying, and it can impact productivity if not treated adequately. In this post, we've listed five quick and easy fixes to resolve the problem, including restarting your router, changing DNS servers, clearing your DNS cache, disabling the Windows firewall, and contacting a specialized professional.
Don't let DNS server not responding error prevent you from working. Try the above fixes to restore your internet connection and productivity.
To find out your DNS server, you should follow these steps:
Several issues can cause a DNS server not to respond, including incorrect DNS settings on your router, faulty firmware updates, or sudden changes, unexpected errors on your Internet Service Provider's server, and third-party DNS tools not working correctly.
While there are several DNS servers available online, Google's Public DNS and OpenDNS are popular options. Google's Public DNS includes 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4, while OpenDNS uses 208.67.222.222, 208.67.220.220, and 208.67.222.220.
