The Domain Name System (DNS) resembles the compendium of phone contacts within the realm of the digital cosmos. It’s how your computer knows where to find websites. But what happens when it stops responding? The pages you’re trying to visit become unreachable, much like calling the wrong number. In Windows 10, this problem is common but fixable. Here’s how.

Common Causes of DNS Server Problems

DNS summarizes website names into IP addresses. It’s like translating a name into a phone number. If this system fails, it’s akin to losing the ability to call your friends by name and having to remember their numbers instead. The ensuing list encapsulates potential origins that might lead to the emergence of the error notification:

1: Incorrect DNS Settings

  • Improper configuration of DNS settings has the potential to give rise to predicaments concerning DNS server functionality. For example, incorrect IP addresses for the DNS server or misconfiguration in the DNS server properties can disrupt the connection.

2:  ISP DNS Problems

  • Sometimes the Internet Service Provider’s (ISP) DNS servers themselves may have problems, leading to failure in resolving domain names. In such cases, switching to a different DNS provider, such as Google’s DNS, can resolve the issue.

3:  Outdated Network Drivers

  • Network drivers facilitate the intercommunication between the operating system and the network hardware, ensuring harmonious connectivity. If these drivers are outdated or incompatible, it can lead to DNS server issues.

4:  Firewall or Security Software Interference

  • Certain firewall settings or security software might inadvertently block the communication with the DNS server. Adjusting or temporarily disabling these settings might be necessary to resolve the issue.

5: DNS Server Overload

  • In situations where a multitude of users concurrently attempt to access a DNS server, the server could potentially become overwhelmed and lose its responsiveness. This is more familiar with public DNS servers.

6: DNS Cache Corruption

  • The DNS cache stores recent DNS lookups to run up subsequent requests to the same domain. If this cache evolves corrupted, it can cause DNS resolution errors.

7: Physical Connection Problems

  • Issues with physical connections such as damaged Ethernet cables, faulty routers, or problems with the network interface card can interfere with DNS server communication.

8: Malware or Virus Infection

  • Certain malware or viruses might modify the DNS settings or redirect the DNS requests to malicious servers, causing DNS server issues.

9: Operating System Bugs or Conflicts

  • Sometimes, the issue might stem from bugs or conflicts within the operating system itself. Regular updates and patches are essential to minimize these problems.

Understanding these common causes can significantly aid in diagnosing and resolving DNS server issues. It allows for targeted troubleshooting, making it easier to pinpoint the problem and apply the appropriate fix. Awareness of these causes also promotes proactive measures to prevent DNS server issues from arising in the first place.

Different Ways to Fix DNS Server Isn’t Responding in Windows 10

To fix the “DNS Server Isn’t Responding” issue in Windows 10, try out one of the following methods:

1: Checking Network Connection

  • Disconnect from your network: Click on the network icon in the taskbar and disconnect from your current network.
  • Reconnect to your network: Click the network icon again and select your network to reconnect.
  • Restart the router: If the problem persists, try restarting your router and then reconnect to the network.

2: Flushing DNS Cache

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Search for “cmd” in the Start menu, right-click on it, and select “Run as administrator”:
  • Type the command: Enter ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter:
  • Confirmation message: You should see a confirmation that the DNS Resolver Cache has been successfully flushed.

3: Changing DNS Servers

  • Launch Network Connections: Right-click the network icon in the taskbar and choose “Open Network & Internet settings.” 

Then click on “Change adapter options”:

  • Right-click on your connection: choose “Properties.”

 Then “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4),” and click “Properties” again

.

  • Replace DNS servers: Choose“Use the following DNS server addresses” and enter a preferred DNS server, such as Google’s (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4).
  • Click OK: Save the changes.

4: Updating Network Drivers

  • Open Device Manager: Press the Windows key + X and click “Device Manager.”
  • Locate Network Adapters: Extend the “Network adapters” section and right-click the network device.
  • Update driver: Select “Update driver”: 

Then “Search automatically for updated driver software”:

5: Restarting DNS Client Service

  • Open Services: Press Windows key + R, type “services.msc,” and press Enter.
  • Find DNS Client Service: Scroll down to find the “DNS Client” service.
  • Restart: Right-click on it and pick the “Restart” option.

6: Disabling Extra Connections

  • Open Network Connections: Follow the same steps as in “Changing DNS Servers.”
  • Right-click and Disable: Right-click on any connections that are not needed and select “Disable”.

7: Checking Antivirus Software

  • Open Antivirus Settings: Go to the settings of the antivirus software.
  • Adjust Firewall Rules: Look for settings related to firewall or network protection, and make sure DNS is not being blocked. If unsure, temporarily disable the firewall and check if the issue is resolved. Don’t forget to enable it again.

Following these steps should resolve the “DNS Server Isn’t Responding” issue in Windows 10. It’s advisable to try them in the order provided and check your connection after each step to see if the issue has been resolved. If the issue persists after attempting all these solutions, contacting professional support might be the best course of action.

Conclusion

Fixing the “DNS Server Isn’t Responding” issue in Windows 10 is manageable with some basic understanding and careful steps. Consider these solutions like the tools in a phone repairman’s toolkit; with the right approach, you’ll get things up and running.