Having issues with one’s internet connection may be quite annoying, especially when one is working on a project that requires one to be online. The error message “DNS server is not responding” is the one that most frequently displays on the screen. But what exactly is the nature of this problem, and what are some possible solutions to this problem that may be implemented? DNS issues are extremely prevalent, but this does not change the fact that they have the potential to make your work more challenging and your day more complicated. You are fortunate since there are a variety of approaches to resolving these DNS server issues, and you can select one that works best for you. To begin, let’s review some of the more fundamental aspects.
What is a DNS?
The Domain Name System, also known as DNS, is a directory that is used to translate domain names or hostnames into an IP address (Internet Protocol address). Users are able to browse the internet and visit virtually any website thanks to the Domain Name System (DNS). On the other hand, computers that have problems with their DNS server are unable to load online pages or connect to the internet.
The “DNS Server Not Responding” error message continues to be the most common. It indicates that the system is unable to connect to the web pages because it is unable to map the hostname and domain names in the right manner. This error could be displayed to users for a variety of reasons, including straightforward causes such as incorrectly set internet adapters or incorrect DNS addresses. Consequently, there is not just one type of challenge that you will face while attempting to find a solution to the problem. However, if you are familiar with the appropriate procedures, recognizing and fixing these problems won’t be difficult at all.
“DNS Server Not Responding.” What Exactly Does That Imply?
The error message shows that the computer failed to connect to the internet because it was unable to connect to the domain name server (DNS), which rendered the internet unavailable to the machine. When trying to discover a solution to this issue, different people approach it from a variety of angles and perspectives.
For example, the vast majority of people will request that you kindly restart their internet router because the issue may just be a simple configuration error that can be corrected straight away. People will sometimes try to restart their laptops in order to ensure that their devices connect to the internet in the appropriate manner. This is done in response to certain scenarios. What are some potential reasons for the DNS Server Not Responding problem, and how can it be avoided in the first place? The following is a list that contains some of the potential reasons why a DNS server might experience connectivity issues.
Invalid DNS Provider:
The internet connection on your device may become unavailable if the backend network is experiencing heavy traffic or a server outage.
Router or Broadband Problems:
Problems with the Network or a connectivity might also result in problems with the DNS server. There is more than one solution to the problem, such as inspecting the Ethernet cables and ports to identify the primary source of the fault. There have been issues with both the apparatus and the Network. Connectivity problems with the DNS Network can also be caused by hardware faults. Take, for instance, the scenario in which the server is unable to correctly send the information to the subsequent server.
Antivirus Issues:
It’s possible that if you’re having issues with your antivirus software, the connection to your Network won’t work properly. Although these easy remedies might help some users, others won’t be able to make use of them for whatever reason. Let’s go through some of the most effective solutions for fixing the DNS Server Not Responding Error that may appear on your personal computers at some point.
With user-friendly interface, you can easily diagnose and pinpoint the root cause of DNS errors. Comprehensive toolset includes:
1. DNS Lookup: Perform DNS lookups to retrieve information about domain names, IP addresses, and other essential DNS records. Quickly identify any discrepancies or misconfigurations that may be causing errors.
2. DNS Propagation Checker: Ensure that DNS changes have propagated across all DNS servers worldwide. Avoid downtime and access your website without any interruptions.
3. DNS Speed Test: Evaluate the performance of your DNS server and identify any bottlenecks that may be slowing down your internet connection. Optimize your DNS settings for faster browsing speeds.
4. DNS Cache Flush: Clear your DNS cache to eliminate any outdated or incorrect information that might be causing errors. Experience hassle-free browsing with up-to-date DNS records.
5. DNSSEC Validator: Verify the authenticity and integrity of DNS responses using DNSSEC. Protect yourself from DNS spoofing and ensure secure communication with websites. Don’t let DNS errors hinder your online activities. Take advantage of our powerful DNS error tools and resolve issues with ease. Streamline your troubleshooting process and enjoy a seamless browsing experience today.
There Are Steps To Take While Troubleshooting a DNS Server That Is Not Responding.
Fixing Problems with Networking in Windows:
You are aware that the problems with the DNS server are primarily caused by problems with the connectivity of the Network. The resolution of these network issues, on the other hand, requires a different approach for Windows and Mac users. Repeat the procedures below to ensure that you have resolved any and all potential DNS server issues, which will result in improved internet connectivity.
Fixing the Computer’s Networking Problems:
- To reach the Network and Sharing Center on your computer, open the Control Panel, navigate to the Network and Internet category, and then click on the Sharing Center icon.
- Click on the Troubleshoot option to access your network configuration, then select the appropriate problem to fix.
- To run the troubleshooter, first select other troubleshooters from the menu, then click on Internet connections. Users can also access the troubleshooting difficulties by right-clicking the internet symbol located in the bottom right corner of the screen. This option is available to users. Please be patient while the system runs the troubleshooting procedure and then check to see whether the DNS server error has been resolved. In the event that this is not the case, the system will display the necessary steps to fix connectivity in order to assist in resolving the issue.
Fixing Problems with Networking on a Mac:
- The process of running wifi diagnostics on a Mac differs slightly from how it works on Windows.
- First, make sure that all apps have been closed, and then connect to the internet network that is giving you trouble with the DNS server.
- The wifi Status may be accessed by clicking the Options button, and it will be displayed on the screen. Gain access and select the Open Diagnostics option from the drop-down menu.
- Following that, examine your network connection to identify any potential problems, and then make an effort to fix them by following the on-screen guide.
- The system will perform a fast scan, and you will be able to check the status as well as the specifics of each entry on the list by clicking the Info symbol on the screen and selecting Summary from the drop-down menu that appears when you do so.
If you are still having problems with your DNS server after completing these steps, you should move on to the next technique that we have outlined below.
You could also attempt to connect with a different device:
You should make an effort to connect to a new DNS server since problems with a DNS server can frequently be traced back to faulty equipment. As a result, you should try to connect to a different DNS server. In the event that your secondary device is successful in establishing an internet connection, the issue must be with your primary device. Users who are unable to connect to the internet almost probably have a problem with the router that is being used by those users to access the internet.
It all depends on the kind of environment that the user is in, and applying this quick diagnostic approach can help identify the correct cause for the problem that is being experienced. There is an easier alternative that may be implemented; users can use the data from their mobile phones to test whether or not their internet-connected devices are functioning appropriately.
Users who are able to connect to the internet utilizing either of the two alternatives will have a better understanding of the issues that genuinely concern their internet connection because of this.
Try using a different web browser:
The incompatibility of the user’s web browser with the DNS server is frequently the root cause of the problems that arise with the server. There is a possibility that you may not instantly notice an issue with the connectivity of your browsers, but there is also a likelihood that you will come across such an issue.
If you want to discover whether or not the issue is caused by your current web browser, the quickest and easiest approach to do so is to try it out with a new one. You can choose to use any one of many popular web browsers, such as Google Chrome, Opera, Safari, Mozilla Firefox, and many more.
Users who continue to report issues with their connection are generally having trouble with another aspect of their experience. If you are using Google Chrome and are experiencing problems viewing particular internet pages, you could try switching to Mozilla Firefox and navigating to the pages in question using that browser instead.
The easiest way to fix the issue with the browser is to set the one that is functioning properly as your default search engine and then reinstall the internet browser that is giving you trouble. It will be of aid to the software in restoring all of the necessary files, which can result in the resolution of the error message DNS Server Not Responding.
Users have the choice to make the newly installed browser their default program and to continue using it in place of the one that was previously used.
Configure your PC in Safe Mode:
The system software, whether it is Windows or Mac, plays a crucial part in the connectivity of the Network, and it is also responsible for running all of the files that are necessary for internet browsing in the background.
Any difficulty may result in a serious issue since the personal computer would have inadequate files for internet connectivity, which would then produce problems with the DNS server.
By booting the computer into safe mode, you will be able to determine whether or not the DNS server issues are the result of connectivity issues brought on by the operating system. Users will need to restart the system in safe mode, which is a more straightforward mode of the operating system, in order to accomplish this.
It will restrict the programs, files, and operations that can be performed on your machine.
Starting in Safe Mode (for PC):
The methods that users could use to restart their computers in Safe Mode are outlined in the following paragraphs.
To open the start menu, restart the device after clicking the Button on the screen or the shift key on the keyboard. To restart the computer, you must first select Advanced Options from the new Choose an Options window that appears on the screen, then click the Restart button. The next step for users is to navigate to the Advanced Options menu, locate the Startup settings, and then select the Restart option. The final step is to inspect all the processes running on the PC by selecting Safe Mode Networking Options by pressing the F5 key on the keyboard.
Check to see if the DNS has a complete connection once you have reached the options.
Starting in Safe Mode (for Mac):
- The process of entering safe mode on a Mac device is different from that of a Windows computer. Here are certain steps you need to keep in mind.
- Simply go to the Apple menu and select the shutdown option. After waiting for what ought to be no longer than ten seconds, you will then be able to go on to the configuration options. While your Mac is booting up, press and hold the shift key, then wait for the login screen to appear again after releasing the key.
- Once you have entered safe mode on your individual system, it is time to check to see if your internet connection is functional. If it is functioning normally, there is a good possibility that the DNS server problem you are experiencing is the result of a third-party program. It could be any third-party application; therefore, you will need to look through the files that have been installed on your computer to determine which one it is.
- Once you have located the application, delete it and then restart the machine. The problem with the connection to the DNS server should then be resolved. Be certain that you deleted the software from a third party properly, or else the problem could arise once again.
Please Restart Either Your Broadband or Your Router:
The failure of a modem or router to function effectively is one of the most common causes of the DNS server failing to react to an error that you can have. This failure might result in connection issues and prevent the device from being linked correctly. In the majority of occurrences, fixing this problem requires nothing more than reconnecting your modem or router to the system. After you have restarted the router, you will likely need to additionally empty the data cache in order to provide a clean slate for the modem. After the router has been turned off by pushing the power button, the connecting cable should be unplugged from the router. Please be patient and wait for around thirty seconds until the modem has finished erasing all of the data. Once more, press the Button labelled “Power,” then switch on the modem, and finally, reconnect the internet wire.
Your problem with connecting to the DNS server should be fixed immediately after this. In the event that this does not assist, customers may need to reset the settings on the router. The specific steps that need to be taken to reset the routers will be different for each modem. You will need to examine the instructions for the device that are included in the user manual.
Turn off the antivirus software and the firewall:
An antivirus program is protection software that is designed to save your computer from files that could be malicious or unknown. However, problems with DNS server connectivity may also be caused by antivirus software and firewalls. It is simple to determine whether or not this is the cause of the issue by temporarily disabling the firewall software.
Users of Windows will need to open the Control Panel in order to locate the appropriate configurations on the available list. To access the Virus and Threat Protection Option Listed, access the start menu and click on Settings. From there, proceed to Update Security, and finally, click on the option.
You can temporarily disable the firewall and antivirus software by clicking the Button labelled “Firewall and Antivirus.” Before deactivating the account, the system will ask for verification, so just affirm the choice that you want to make.
Users using Macs should check the System Preferences, navigate to the Security and Privacy preference pane, and select the Firewall Option from the list.
Once the user has turned off the firewall and antivirus software, they need to double-check the internet diagnostic and troubleshooting options that are provided above. You should be able to browse the webpage that is giving you difficulties when you use your personal computer.
If the issue is fixed, you will need to adjust the settings for the antivirus software and the firewall. You are going to need to keep them up to date and double-check them. Systems typically come equipped with an auto-update feature that enables users to manually configure their firewall settings.
After the updates have been installed successfully, users can activate the firewall and antivirus settings. You need to activate the settings, or else it may leave your machine vulnerable to attacks and documents that are dangerous.
Remove Any and All Other Connections:
Over the course of some period of time, a single computer system can establish connections with several networks. What happens, for example, if you take your laptop around with you and utilize the wifi at different places?
This may also contribute to the problem of the DNS Server not responding. Users can deactivate any additional connections that are displayed on the device by following these steps:
Turn off Other Connections on a personal computer:
- In order to get started, open the Control Panel and then head over to the Network and Internet Option Listed.
- Find the option labelled Network and Sharing Center, and then select Change Adapter Settings from the menu that appears in the left-hand column of the screen.
- The configurations will bring up the Network Connections page, which allows users to view the many connections that are made to the system.
- Select the Local Area Connection option, as well as any other details that you are not currently using. Simply selecting the Disable button will cut off any unnecessary connections.
On a Mac, you need to turn off Other Connections:
- Access the Apple Menu and look for System Preferences.
- Click on Network, and a new window will pop up.
- Choose the number of unused connections on the screen on the left and click the minus (-) sign listed next to them. Pressing the minus sign will disconnect the Network from the system.
- Once you have disconnected the unused connections, restart the browser and try to reaccess the website.
Change Your DNS Server Address:
The DNS server address can often stop the system from accessing the domain name or hostname. You can resolve this issue by changing the DNS server address listed on the menu. The internet connections are pre-designed to grab a DNS server address from the Internet Service Provider (IPS). However, there are times when the system will not collect this information directly. Therefore, you will need to change the DNS server address manually. In other cases, the internet service provider’s DNS server may not respond, which will cause connectivity issues again.
Users can temporarily change their current DNS server address to resolve this problem and connect to a different one. It will allow your system to load any website you want until you can resolve the ISP problem.
You will find many online tools like Google Public DNS, which you can use for the time being. However, using them for a long time can be dangerous, so it is best to resolve the ISP connectivity issues.
Modify the settings for DNS on the computer:
You can follow these steps to set up a different DNS server on your device.
- Find the Network Connections listed by clicking on the ncpa. Cpl in the search box of your operating system.
- Find the Network you are using on the list and click on Properties for more information.
- Users need to look for the Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) option listed on the window and access the Properties.
- Check the Obtain IP Address Automatically and fill in the preferred and alternate DNS server address settings.
- Users can specify their desired DNS server address and Alternative DNS Server Address and confirm the settings.
- You need to confirm your changes by clicking on Validate the Settings upon Exit and choosing OK.
- Reboot your system and the new DNS server address settings.
Make Adjustments to the Mac’s DNS Settings:
Following are the additional steps you may need to follow for your Mac devices.
- Users need to begin by accessing the Apple Menu and looking for the System Preferences options.
- Access the Network button and click on your primary network connection. Select the Advanced Button and choose DNS.
- Click on the Plus (+) Button to add the DNS server address to the list. Click on OK and then Apply the settings.
- Finally, restart your internet connection to see if the DNS Server Not Responding issue is resolved.
Perform the necessary updates on the Network Connection Adapter:
Outdated adapters on the device are another reason why the DNS server may fail to connect to your system. Users need to update their Network adapted either automatically or manually.
Note that the automatic updates are ideal for new users who may not know much about DNS servers and network adapters. However, manually updating the adapters will take more time if you are new to problem-solving network issues. You can select from various online tools or detectors to help identify the missing network adapters, install/update them as required, and manage other details.
Nonetheless, we suggest creating a system restore point that can help you bring your system back to its original setting if the network adapter updates take time.
Most auto-update programs involve checking the system for possible adapter issues and resolving them by installing/updating the required files.
Conclusion:
DNS Server Not Responding is a standard network connectivity issue that might often appear while using your device. It simply means that your system cannot connect to the internet, which usually happens due to server connectivity problems.
You can resolve these issues in several ways depending on the reason, but the following are the most effective and simplest ones.
Analyzing and Fixing Issues with the Network:
Users should let the operating system’s in-built troubleshooting software handle the DNS server connectivity issues by running a diagnostic.
Rebooting the Network Router:
Users can reset the modem or router by turning it off, unplugging the Ethernet, and reconnecting it after 30 seconds. Or, you can reset the modem setting by following the device manually.
Flush DNS Cache:
Clearing the cache will refresh the DNS configuration allowing the users to connect to the system again.
Modify the IP Address of the DNS Server:
The ISP DNS server may not work in many cases, which can cause many problems. You need to replace the ISP DNS address with an alternative one for some time. We are sure that the fixes we have mentioned on this blog will help you fix the “DNS Server Not Responding” error and reconnect your PC to the internet.