How to fix DNS server error?
It is common to encounter the “DNS server not responding” message when we try to access a website. Usually this error occurs when the browser cannot connect to the internet due to different reasons. URL writing error may occur due to network problems, obstructions in security software, or hardware malfunction.
Although it is very frustrating, there are quick and effective solutions for the user. Some of these solutions do not require much technical knowledge and will solve one of the most common errors in web browsing in a few seconds.
What is a DNS server?
In very simple terms, a DNS (or Domain Name System) server is a translator that converts domain names into IP addresses. The DNS server very nimbly and quickly assigns numerical addresses (IP) to domains such as web pages, emails, and other web resources.
Although it is a rather complex process, the connection interface between the user, browser and resource is quite plain and simple.
What happens if the DNS server does not respond?
Currently we can type a domain name into the browser and get an immediate response. But web browsing relies on a complex system of connections between devices that communicate dynamically, quickly and fluidly. In this entire complex system, the DNS server is a fundamental part that combines criteria and assigns resources to different physical locations.
If the DNS server cannot find the IP address of the resource requested by the browser, an error may be generated, which is usually expressed as: “DNS server not responding“. This message indicates an inconsistency between the resource’s host and the browser due to errors in the server that assigns names and IP addresses.
The reasons why a DNS server may become unresponsive are diverse. From connection problems or technical problems with the DNS server to configuration issues. In many cases, a large number of requests to a DNS server can cause overload, reducing the response capacity of the system.
How to solve DNS server error?
A connection error can mean a major problem as the resources requested by the user cannot be accessed. This connection error is not always expressed by the term “DNS server not responding”. Sometimes the browser may give an error like “server not found” or “website unavailable”.
Try other browsers
Connection errors between the DNS server and the browser may be the result of an interruption in the transfer of information between the two. These errors may occur temporarily due to updates or events caused by the browser. Trying to connect with other browsers can effectively fix the “DNS server unavailable” error.
Try another device on the same network
A hardware issue on the device may interrupt the connection between the browser and the DNS server. As we have seen, problems with connectors, modem, switches, ports or cables can affect the connection. Likewise, firewalls and antiviruses can also block internet connection.
A pretty effective solution to verify that the problem is with our device is to connect via another device. We can try a new connection using the same network, IP address and browser and verify that the error is on the device.
Disable antivirus and firewall (temporarily)
Antiviruses can create blocking systems for data entry and exit to the device. These actions, aimed at protecting the computer from malware, are usually done in a radical way, cutting off all types of connections.
While not a recommended long-term solution, one way to check if the firewall or antivirus is the root of the problem is to temporarily disable them.
Restart your computer in safe mode
In operating systems such as Windows and macOS, safe mode is a special boot that starts the system with minimal drivers and services. Some experts recommend this as a way to fix hardware or software problems.
This boot mode allows the user to identify and fix problems by throttling the drivers and/or services causing the failures.
Clear DNS cache
Caching is a type of temporary memory that stores the IPs of the most frequent and/or recent connections on the device. In some cases, these IPs may become obsolete or corrupt, causing connection errors.
Clearing the DNS cache can refresh the connection by removing these old and unnecessary files and re-establishing the connection between the device, browser, and server.
Disable other links
In our daily browsing we can (knowingly or unknowingly) create many connections at once. If any of these connections fails to communicate with the DNS server, it can affect the entire set and generate a “DNS server unavailable” error.
The most effective solution to such problems is to close the connections one by one until the error disappears. But in most cases the quickest solution is to close all connections and restart communication.
Disable IP version 6 (IPv6)
Disabling IPv6 may be a temporary solution to reestablish the connection with the DNS server. IP version 6 is the latest update to the TCP/IP connection protocol and may have incompatibilities with some devices and/or operating systems. By deactivating this version, the device reverts to the last saved version of the connection protocol and immediately resolves the fault.
Update the network adapter driver or firmware
Firmware is software that controls the device’s hardware and is stored in the computer’s readable memory (ROM). This controller cannot be replaced directly by the user. However, it is possible to update its version to eliminate connection errors.
We can update the adapter driver quickly and efficiently using special tools and utilities from the device manufacturer. To do this, we must follow the manufacturer’s instructions exactly.
Restart the router
Restarting the router is one of the most common solutions to any internet connection malfunction. Since there may be errors or malfunctions in the computer that affect the Internet connection, the DNS server error can be resolved by restarting the hardware.
Change the DNS server address
Changing the DNS server address can be one of the most effective solutions to eliminate connection failures with the browser.