How to Fix "DNS Server Is Not Responding" in Windows
By Daniel Carter
· About Zone Desire
Quick answer
"Your DNS server might be unavailable" or "DNS server is not responding" means your PC cannot translate website names into addresses. Restart the router, flush DNS, and switch to a public DNS server such as 1.1.1.1 or 8.8.8.8.
What does “DNS Server Not Responding” mean?
The DNS server your PC uses (usually your router or ISP) did not answer.
What causes it?
- Router or ISP DNS problem
- Old DNS cache
- Network adapter settings
- Antivirus or VPN interfering
Steps to try
Stop when the issue is resolved.
- Restart the modem and router.
- Open Command Prompt as administrator and run: ipconfig /flushdns
- Run: ipconfig /release then ipconfig /renew
- Settings → Network & internet → your connection → DNS server assignment → Edit → Manual → set 1.1.1.1 and 8.8.8.8.
- Turn off VPN and retry.
Need more support? Check the official help: Microsoft Support: Fix Wi-Fi connection issues
FAQs
Is 1.1.1.1 safe to use?
Yes. It is Cloudflare's public DNS. 8.8.8.8 is Google's.
Can I change DNS on the router?
Yes, which fixes it for every device on the network.