How to Fix the “DNS Server Not Responding” Error: Step-by-Step Guide

A DNS server not responding is pretty annoying and fairly common; it often comes down to minor network or configuration problems. The good news is you can usually fix it yourself without needing to be a tech expert.

We’ll explain what it means, why it happens, and walk you through step-by-step solutions for any device – including specific instructions for Windows 10, Windows 11, macOS, and PlayStation 5. We’ll also give you some tips to prevent future DNS issues and explain how Private Internet Access (PIA VPN) can help in certain cases.

What Does the “DNS Server Not Responding” Error Mean?

The “DNS server not responding” error means your device is unable to connect to the Domain Name System (DNS) server. This server translates the human-friendly names for websites, like privateinternetaccess.com, into IP addresses that computers use to communicate with each other.

Essentially, when you enter a web address, your device asks the DNS server for the corresponding IP address to connect to. The DNS server then typically asks a couple of other DNS servers to find the IP you need, and once it finds it, it sends it back to you.

If you get a DNS server not responding error, it means the lookup process isn’t working, and as a result, your device can’t connect to the service you’re trying to reach.

DNS Server Not Responding: Quick Fixes to Try First

Before we go through troubleshooting steps for specific devices, you can try these quick troubleshooting solutions.

1. Restart Your Router

Unplug the router’s power cable, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in. Once it reconnects, test your connection. 

Why it works: Restarting forces the router to clear its memory and refresh its connection to your Internet Service Provider (ISP). This can fix DNS issues caused by a full cache, dropped packets, or a stalled connection to the DNS server.

2. Try a Different Browser

To rule out a browser issue, try another browser. If a website loads in one browser and not another, check to see if there’s an update for the browser that’s not working. 

Why it works: Browser bugs, corrupted settings, or outdated versions can interfere with DNS resolution. Switching browsers helps confirm if the issue is browser-specific.

3. Test Another Device on the Same Network

If you think the issue is with a particular device, you can run a test on a second device. For instance, if your PC has DNS errors, connect your phone to the same Wi-Fi network and see if you can open the website you’re trying to access.

1. If only one device is affected, the problem is likely with that device’s settings. 
2. If no device can browse, the issue may lie with your router or ISP.

Why it works: This helps you identify if only one device is affected, after which you can check it for incorrect DNS settings, outdated network drivers, or a misconfigured firewall.

4. Temporarily Disable Your Firewall, Antivirus, or VPN

Turn off your firewall and antivirus temporarily and try to access the web. If the website loads without an error message, adjust the settings to allow DNS traffic (look for any “DNS protection” or network settings).

If you’re using a VPN, you can disconnect from it and see if that resolves the DNS problem. Keep in mind that doing so will expose your internet traffic, so only try this if you don’t currently need the protection provided by the VPN. PIA VPN users shouldn’t face DNS errors when using the default PIA DNS servers. You can check your DNS settings in the app and toggle between different options to troubleshoot your issue. 

Why it works: Security tools and VPNs sometimes block or redirect DNS requests. If they’re misconfigured or too aggressive, they can interfere with normal DNS resolution and lead to connection errors.

5. Disable Extra Network Adapters

Go to your network settings and disable any connection you aren’t using, such as a second Wi-Fi interface or VirtualBox network. After disabling them, restart your browser and try again.

Why it works: Having multiple active adapters can confuse your operating system about which one to use for DNS queries. This can lead to misrouted or dropped DNS requests, which in turn cause connection errors.

How to Fix a DNS Server Not Responding on Windows 11

If you’re seeing a DNS server not responding error on Windows 11, you can generally repair it with one of several easy fixes. Below are the most effective methods with clear, step-by-step instructions.

1. Run the Internet Troubleshooter

1. Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot.

2. Select Other troubleshooters.

3. Find Network and Internet and click Run.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions. If Windows detects a DNS issue, it may fix it automatically.

2. Flush DNS Cache and Renew Your IP

1. Type “cmd” in the search bar, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.

2. In the command prompt window, type the following three commands, pressing the Enter button after each one. This clears old DNS entries and gets a new IP address from your router.
   • ipconfig /flushdns
   • ipconfig /release
   • ipconfig /renew

3. Change Your DNS Server

1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet and select Wi-Fi.

2. Click on your active network.

3. Scroll down to DNS server assignment and click Edit, then select Manual.

4. Enable IPv4 and use the following DNS server addresses (Google’s public DNS servers):
   
   • Preferred: 8.8.8.8
   • Alternate: 8.8.4.4

5. Click Save, then restart your browser.

4. Update Network Adapter Drivers

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.

2. Expand Network adapters, right-click your active adapter, and choose Update driver.

3. Reboot your computer if drivers are updated.

5. Restart the DNS Client Service

1. Press Windows + R, type “services.msc” and click OK.

2. Scroll to DNS Client, right-click, and choose Restart.

6. Disable IPv6

1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings.

2. Click your connection and choose View additional properties.

3. Scroll down to DNS server assignment and click Edit.

4. Uncheck Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6).

5. Click Save and restart your computer.

7. Check for Windows Updates

1. Go to Settings > Windows Update. Click Check for updates and install any available patches.

2. Restart your PC afterward.

8. Still Having Issues?

If none of the above work, try these additional steps:

1. Scan for malware using Windows Security: In Windows Security settings, go to Virus & threat protection and click on Quick scan. Alternatively, you can use a third-party antivirus app.

2. Network reset: Go to Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset. This reinstalls your network adapters and resets all settings to default.

How to Fix a DNS Server Not Responding on Windows 10

While Windows 10 is nearing the end of its life, many users still rely on it. The DNS fixes are nearly identical to Windows 11, but the interface differs slightly. Here’s how to apply them:

• Troubleshooter: Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Internet Connections.
• Flush DNS and renew your IP: Run Command Prompt as admin and type:
  • ipconfig /flushdns
  • ipconfig /release
  • ipconfig /renew
• Change DNS server:
  • Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
  • Click your adapter > Properties > Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
  • Use: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
• Update drivers: Device Manager > Network adapters > Update.
• Restart DNS client: Type “services.msc” > DNS Client > Restart.
• Disable IPv6: Adapter Properties > Uncheck IPv6.

Read More: How to Upgrade to Windows 11

How to Fix a DNS Server Not Responding on macOS

If you’re using a Mac and getting DNS errors, there’s a built-in diagnostic tool that can help. Here’s how to use it and what to do next.

1. Run Wireless Diagnostics

MacOS includes a handy troubleshooting tool that can detect DNS and other network problems.

1. Close any open apps, and connect to the Wi-Fi network that’s giving you trouble.
2. Hold down the Option key and click the Wi-Fi icon in the top menu bar, and click Open Wireless Diagnostics.

3. Click Continue to begin the diagnostics and follow the on-screen instructions.

4. macOS will scan your connection and display a summary when it’s done.

2. Change Your DNS Server

You can also manually set your DNS servers to something more reliable, like Google DNS or Cloudflare.

1. Go to System Settings > Network and select your connection.

2. Next to your network, click Details.

3. Choose the DNS tab. Select your existing DNS servers and use the minus (-) button to remove them, then use the add (+) button to add a new one like:
   • 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 (Google)
   • 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1 (Cloudflare)

4. Click OK, then restart your browser and test your connection.

3. Restart Your Mac and Router

Sometimes, a simple restart can fix DNS issues caused by temporary glitches.

1. Turn off your Wi-Fi or unplug your Ethernet cable.
2. Restart your Mac.
3. Power-cycle your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in.
4. Reconnect to the network and test your connection.

If DNS errors keep happening after these steps, consider running a full malware scan or checking for macOS updates under System Settings > General > Software Update. Network configuration issues or third-party software could also be interfering with DNS resolution.

How to Fix a DNS Server Not Responding on PS5

If your PS5 has a “Cannot connect to the DNS server” or “DNS server not responding” error, it means the console isn’t able to resolve network addresses. This blocks you from online gaming or streaming. Here’s how to fix it.

1. Restart Your PS5 and Router

The simplest first step is often the best. Completely power down your PS5 and then unplug the router’s power for about 30 seconds.

Plug the router back in and let it fully reboot. After your internet is back up, turn on the PS5 and try connecting again. This clears any minor network glitches on both the console and router and often resolves DNS issues.

2. Change Your DNS Settings on PS5

If a reboot didn’t help, you may need to manually specify DNS servers on your PS5. Sometimes, the default DNS from your ISP is slow or unresponsive for the console. Using a well-known public DNS can fix the issue.

1. Go to Settings.

2. Select Network, then Settings again.

3. Go to Set Up Internet Connection.

4. Select your current network and choose Advanced Settings.

5. Scroll down to DNS Settings, switch it from Automatic to Manual, and enter a primary DNS and secondary DNS of your choice, like:
   • 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 (Google DNS)
   • 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1 (Cloudflare)
   • 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220 (OpenDNS). 

These public DNS servers are free to use and often more reliable. Even Sony’s official guidance suggests using a public DNS for DNS errors.

6. After entering and saving your custom DNS addresses, go back and select Test Internet Connection on the PS5 to see if the DNS problem is resolved.

3. Check Your Internet Connection

It’s possible the issue isn’t the console at all, but your overall internet connection. On the PS5, if you run the built-in connection test and it fails, try using another device (phone or PC) on the same network.

If you can’t access anything from your home network, then the DNS error isn’t related to your PS5. You might need to contact your ISP or wait until they resolve the outage. If other devices work fine and only the PS5 has an issue, continue with the steps below.

4. Use a Wired Connection

If you’re connected via Wi-Fi, switch to an Ethernet connection if possible. This can eliminate DNS errors that were caused by glitchy Wi-Fi.

8 Common Causes of a “DNS Server Not Responding” Error

Here are the most common reasons for a DNS server not responding:

1. Network or connectivity problems: One of the most common causes is an unstable internet connection or router issue. If your Wi-Fi drops out or your router freezes, your device won’t be able to reach the DNS server. A quick restart of your modem or router often fixes the issue.
2. DNS server issues or outage: If your ISP’s DNS servers are down, undergoing maintenance, or just under heavy load, you’ll get no response. Switching to a reliable public DNS like Google (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) can help if the default server isn’t responding.
3. Incorrect DNS settings: If your DNS settings are wrong (like an outdated or mistyped server address), your device won’t be able to resolve website names. Check your network settings and correct any mistakes.
4. Firewall or antivirus interference: Security tools sometimes intercept DNS requests, thinking they’re harmful. A firewall or antivirus app might identify the DNS traffic as suspicious and prevent the connection. If you’re sure the website you’re trying to access is secure, you can temporarily disable the firewall or antivirus software to determine if this is the cause.
5. Cached or outdated DNS info: Your device stores DNS information in a cache to speed things up, but if that data gets outdated or corrupted, it can cause problems. Flushing the DNS cache often clears up these errors and resolves any issues.
6. Multiple or conflicting connections: If your device is connected to multiple networks (Ethernet and Wi-Fi, for instance), your device may get confused about where to send DNS requests. On Windows, you can disable unused network interfaces so only the primary connection is active.
7. IPv6 compatibility issues: While IPv6 is gradually being adopted, it’s still not supported everywhere. In some cases, disabling IPv6 on your network adapter may help resolve persistent “DNS not responding” errors, especially if your network isn’t fully IPv6-compatible.
8. ISP or network restrictions: In rare cases, your internet provider might be blocking or filtering DNS traffic, either by design or due to a misconfiguration. This is more common on managed networks like those at schools, offices, or public Wi-Fi hotspots. If you’re on a managed network, try switching to a known public DNS or contact the network administrator.

Tips to Prevent DNS Errors

Here are some tips to prevent DNS server response errors in the future:

• Use a reliable DNS provider: Instead of relying on your ISP’s default DNS, switch to a trusted service like Google (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1). They’re fast, stable, and less prone to outages.
• Keep your devices and router updated: Regular updates to your router’s firmware and your devices’ network drivers can fix known bugs, including ones that affect DNS resolution.
• Avoid overloading your router: Too many device connections can slow things down. If your router frequently crashes, it might be overheating. Consider moving it to a better-ventilated spot or upgrading to a newer, more powerful model.
• Scan for malware: Some malicious software can hijack your DNS settings. Keeping your system clean with a good antivirus or anti-malware tool can prevent this kind of tampering.
• Use a VPN with DNS protection: PIA VPN routes DNS requests through its own VPN servers, helping avoid ISP-related problems.
• Check your ISP’s status: If everything looks fine on your end but you’re still having trouble, your ISP might be the source of the problem. Check their service status online, or try switching temporarily to a public DNS to bypass the issue.

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