How to Clear DNS Cache in Windows 10?
Why Clear DNS Cache?
Before diving into how to clear the DNS cache, it’s essential to understand why it’s necessary. DNS (Domain Name System) cache is a local storage on your device that stores IP addresses and domain names you’ve visited. However, sometimes this cache can become outdated or corrupted, leading to issues with internet connections, slow performance, or even website errors.
How to Clear DNS Cache Windows 10?
There are a few ways to clear the DNS cache in Windows 10. Here are a few methods:
Method 1: Using the Command Prompt
- Open the Command Prompt: Right-click on the Start button and select Open Windows Terminal or search for cmd in the Start menu.
- Type the command: ipconfig /flushdns
- Press Enter: Press the Enter key to execute the command.
Method 2: Using the Ipconfig Tool
- Open the Run dialog box: Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box and type ipconfig /flushdns.
- Press OK: Press OK to execute the command.
Method 3: Using the Windows 10 Power Shell
- Open the Windows 10 Power Shell: Right-click on the Start button and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
- Type the command: Get-DnsClientCache -Flush
- Press Enter: Press the Enter key to execute the command.
Method 4: Using Third-Party Tools
There are several third-party tools available that can help you clear the DNS cache. Some popular options include:
- CCleaner: A popular cleaning tool that includes features to clear DNS cache.
- Glary Utilities: A comprehensive system maintenance tool that includes a DNS cache clear functionality.
- DNS Cache Cleaner: A dedicated tool to clean the DNS cache.
What to Do After Clearing DNS Cache?
After clearing the DNS cache, you may need to:
- Restart your device: A simple reboot can help ensure that the changes take effect.
- Check your internet connection: Verify that your internet connection is stable and working as expected.
- Check website resolve issues: If you were experiencing issues with website resolution, try accessing the website again to see if the issue has been resolved.
Common Issues After Clearing DNS Cache?
- Internet connection problems: If you experience repeated disconnections or slow speeds, it may be due to other issues such as network congestion, DNS errors, or configuration problems.
- Website resolve issues: If you continue to experience issues with website resolution, it may be due to caching issues on your device, browser, or website-specific problems.
- DNS propagation delay: Clearing the DNS cache may cause a temporary delay in resolving new domains or websites. This is normal and should resolve on its own.
Conclusion
In conclusion, clearing the DNS cache in Windows 10 is a simple process that can help improve internet connectivity and resolve website resolve issues. While it’s not a solution for every problem, it’s an essential maintenance task to ensure your device remains running smoothly. By following the methods outlined in this article, you can clear your DNS cache and get back to enjoying a fast and reliable internet connection.
Additional Tips:
- Regularly clean your device: Regularly cleaning your device, including the registry and temporary files, can help maintain performance and prevent issues.
- Keep your browser up to date: Regularly updating your web browser can ensure you have the latest security patches and features.
- Monitor your system logs: Regularly monitoring your system logs can help identify and diagnose issues, including DNS cache issues.