How To Fix DNS Server Not Responding On Windows 11?

The Domain Name System, or DNS, is a decentralized naming process that identifies PCs, servers, and other internet-accessible entities. It aids in the identification of your computer and any incoming communications. If your PC can’t connect to the DNS server, you can get certain problems.

Don’t be alarmed if your Windows 11 displays a “DNS Server Not Responding” message. It’s still a new technology, so bugs are certain to pop up now and again. Simply follow the steps below to get your computer up and running as soon as possible.

How to Resolve the DNS Server Not Responding Error in Windows 11

This error can occur for a variety of reasons. Most of the time, your computer is unable to connect to the internet. Network-related difficulties are sometimes misdiagnosed by Windows as DNS issues when they are caused by software that pose a conflict with your connection.

Method 1: Third-Party Antivirus should be turned off

You may be getting this problem because you have an antivirus program on your PC, such as Systweak Antivirus or McAfee. It can occasionally conflict with your network, resulting in numerous failures such as DNS troubles.

To see if this is the problem, disable your antivirus software for a few minutes and see if the DNS server issue persists. If it functions normally, the app is most likely to blame, and you should talk to the antivirus support to guide you in providing an exception.

Method 2: Clean up your DNS

One of the most convenient method for resolving most DNS issues, especially if the issue is caused by misconfigured device settings. On Windows 11, here’s how to flush and renew your DNS.

Step 1: Open Press and hold the Win + R keys to start the program. Then, to launch the Command Prompt, type CMD and hit Enter.

Step 2: To run the command, type ipconfig /flushdns in the Command Prompt and hit Enter.

Step 3: Then click Enter to type ipconfig /registerdns.

Step 4: After that, type ipconfig /release into the command prompt and press Enter.

Step 5: Then, hit Enter after typing ipconfig /renew.

Step 6: Finally, hit Enter after typing netsh winsock reset.

Step 7: Restart your computer once you’ve filled in all of the commands. A DNS error produced by a faulty setting should be resolved as a result of this. 

Method 3: Change the DNS settings on your Windows PC

Using your internet provider’s default DNS can sometimes cause problems with your machine. We suggest switching to a free DNS provider if you haven’t already. You can alter it from your router’s settings or the network adapter settings on your PC. Here are some DNS providers and addresses that are free to use:

• Google: 8.8.8.8 | 8.8.4.4
• Quad9: 9.9.9.9 | 149.112.112.112
• AlternateDNS: 76.76.19.19 | 76.223.122.150
• Cloudflare: 1.1.1.1 | 1.0.0.1
• AdGuard DNS: 94.140.14.14 | 94.140.15.15
• OpenDNS Home: 208.67.222.222 | 208.67.220.220

To alter your DNS settings on your Windows 11 machine, follow the steps below:

Step 1: To launch Settings, press and hold the Windows + I keys together.

Step 2: Click ‘Network & Internet > Wi-Fi > Hardware Properties’ in the Settings app.

Step 3: Click Edit on the DNS server assignment.

Step 4: Select Manual from the options in the Edit DNS settings section.

Step 5: Disable the switch for IP4 or IPV6 depending on your DNS provider.

Step 6: Then, in the Preferred DNS column, type the Public DNS you specified. Then, under the Alternate DNS area, type in the address.

Step 7: If encryption is available, choose it from the drop-down menu. After that, click Save.

Step 8: On your computer, the DNS setting has now been changed. Examine the error to see if your system is operating normally.

Method 4: Drivers must be updated

You may download and utilize a free driver updater for Windows to swiftly update your PC’s necessary drivers. If you prefer not to have other apps installed on your PC, you can update them manually using the Windows settings. Take the following steps:

Step 1: Press and hold the Windows + I keys to access the Settings menu.

Step 2: Then go to Windows Update and select Check for Updates.

Step 3: Finally, restart your system after installing any available updates.

Step 4: Check whether you’re getting the same issue once your machine boots up.

Method 5: Use Safe Mode

It’s advised to restart your PC in Safe mode if you’re still having problems after following all of the troubleshooting methods above. Windows will only execute basic settings in Safe mode, removing any settings that may be causing the error. Here’s how to enter Safe Mode on your computer.

Step 1: To access the Power icon, go to the Start menu and select it.

Step 2: Then click Restart while holding down the Shift key.

Step 3: Select Troubleshoot from the Recovery Options menu.

Step 4: Then select Advanced Options from the drop-down menu.

Step 5: Select Startup Settings from the Advanced menu.

Step 6: After that, press Restart.

Step 7: To reboot your PC in Safe mode with networking, press 5 or F5. Even in Safe mode, you will be able to access the web.

Step 8: Test your internet once your PC reboots in Safe mode to determine whether the problem persists. If it doesn’t, a third-party program or service you’re using is most likely to blame for the DNS issue you’re experiencing. To determine which program is causing the problem, you must manually delete or disable it.

The Final Word On How To Fix DNS Server Not Responding On Windows 11?

The following methods will help readers to fix DNS Server not responding on Windows 11 PC. These methods are tried and tested and have been recommended by experts on troubleshooting forums.

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