DNS error on windows 10

DNS stands for Domain Name System converts human readable domain names like google.com into internet protocol (IP) address like 173.194.39.78 and play an important role in internet connection. That means, if there’s any wrong with your DNS server you Cannot connect to the internet or browse web pages on your computer. Unfortunately, Sometimes you might experience Internet not working and running the network troubleshooter results DNS server not responding, or DNS server might be unavailable on windows 10. If you encounter such problems, No Internet access due to the DNS server is not responding apply solutions listed below to fix the DNS error on windows 10.

How to fix DNS error on windows 10

Before apply any solutions below, we recommend restart your computer, Router, or modem. Temporarily disable third-party antivirus and disconnect VPN (if configured on your device)

Clear DNS cache and reset TCP/IP

This is the most effective solution to fix different Internet connection problems include DNS errors on windows 10

Press Windows key + S, type cmd. Right-click on the command prompt select run as administrator. Click yes when user account control prompted for permission. Now perform the following commands and press enter key after each.

  • ipconfig /flushdns
  • ipconfig /registerdns
  • ipconfig /release
  • ipconfig /renew

Performing the above command wipe the operating system’s DNS cache, and register a new ip address. Once the commands are executed, reboot your computer and try to access any webpage to check the internet status.

Check DNS client service

This is very important, the DNS client service must running state for smooth experience. Let’s check the DNS client service is running or restart the service following steps below.

  • Press Windows key + R, type service.msc and click ok,
  • This will open the windows service console, scroll down to locate DNS client service,
  • If its running status, right click on it select restart, if the service not running then double click on it to open its properties,
  • change the status type automatic and start the service next to service status
  • Click apply and ok to save changes and check the Internet status.

DNS client service

Obtain DNS server address automatically

  • Press Windows key + R, type ncpa.cpl and press ok
  • This will open the network connection window, right-click on active network adapter (Ethernet or Wi-Fi according to your Windows) select properties,
  • Locate and double click on Internet Protocol Version 4(TCP/IPv4) to open its properties,
  • Here select the radio button Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically. Then click OK.

Obtain DNS server address automatically

Pro tip: From here uncheck the Internet Protocol Version 6(TCP/IPv6) option to disable IPv6

disable IPv6

  • Restart your computer and check the Internet status or try to access any website.

Switch to Google DNS

This is another effective solution, switch to Google DNS most of time fix the internet connection problems.

  • Open Network Connections using ncpa.cpl
  • locate your connection (Ethernet or Wi-Fi according to your Windows), right-click it and choose Properties.
  • Once the Properties window opens select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and then open Properties.
  • Select Use the following DNS server addresses and set 8.8.8.8 as Preferred DNS server and 8.8.4.4 as Alternate DNS server.
  • Alternatively, some users are suggesting to use 208.67.222.222 as Preferred DNS server and 208.67.222.220 as Alternate DNS server.
  • Once you’re done, click OK.

Google DNS

Reinstall network adapter

Outdated network adapter drivers also sometimes cause different internet connection problems. Try to update or reinstall the network adapter driver following the steps below.

  • Press Windows Key + X and select Device Manager, this will display all installed device driver list,
  • locate and expand network adapter, right-click on installed Wifi or ethernet driver select uninstall. Click uninstall again if prompts for confirmation.
  • After you uninstall it, click on Action then Scan for hardware changes button.
  • Locate your network adapter once again, right-click it and choose Update Driver Software.
  • Choose the option to Search automatically for updated driver software. Wait for Windows 10 to download and install the necessary software on your device.

Finally, restart your computer and check the Internet status.

Change Power Options settings

  • Press Windows key + R, type powercfg.cpl and click ok to open the power options window.
  • Locate your current power plan and click Change plan settings.
  • Now click on Change advanced power settings.
  • Locate Wireless Adapter settings and set them to Maximum Performance.
  • Click Apply and OK to save changes.

Change Power Options network adapter

Perform Clean boot

  • Press Windows key + S, type msconfig  and select system configuration
  • Move to the services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services and click Disable all button.
  • Now open task manager, move to the startup tab and disable startup services,
  • Click Apply and OK to save changes.
  • Restart your PC.

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Steve Ballmer
With over 7 years of experience in the IT industry, I have experience in IT support, helpdesk, sysadmin, network admin, and cloud computing. Certified in Microsoft Technologies (MCTS and MCSA) and also Cisco Certified Professional in Routing and Switching.