Clearing the DNS resolver cache can be a useful troubleshooting step when you encounter DNS-related issues on your web browsers or operating system. DNS (Domain Name System) resolver cache stores information about the websites you visit, translating domain names into IP addresses for faster loading of web pages.
A cache is a non-authoritative representation of data maintained for performance. In short, it temporarily stores data to speed up access to frequently used information.
Sometimes, this cache can become outdated or corrupted, leading to connectivity problems. Here’s how you can clear the DNS resolver cache in popular web browsers like Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Opera, and also in Windows 10.
Clearing DNS Cache in Web Browsers
Google Chrome
1. Open Chrome Settings: Click on the three-dot menu icon in the top right corner of Chrome, then select “Settings.”
2. Access Privacy and Security: Scroll down and click on “Privacy and security” in the left sidebar.
3. Clear Browsing Data: Under “Privacy and security,” click on “Clear browsing data.”
4. Choose Time Range: In the pop-up window, select a time range or choose “All time” to clear all data.
5. Check DNS Cache: Ensure that “Cookies and other site data” and “Cached images and files” are selected. Uncheck other options if you only want to clear the DNS cache.
6. Clear Data: Click “Clear data” to remove the selected browsing data, including the DNS cache.
Microsoft Edge
1. Open Edge Settings: Click on the three-dot menu icon in the top right corner of Edge, then select “Settings.”
2. Go to Privacy, Search, and Services: In the left sidebar, select “Privacy, search, and services.”
3. Choose What to Clear: Under “Clear browsing data,” click on “Choose what to clear.”
4. Select Browsing Data: Check the boxes next to “Cookies and other site data” and “Cached images and files.”
5. Clear Data: Click on “Clear now” to delete the selected browsing data, including the DNS cache.
Mozilla Firefox
1. Open Firefox Options: Click on the three-line menu icon (hamburger menu) in the top right corner of Firefox, then select “Options.”
2. Access Privacy & Security: In the left sidebar, click on “Privacy & Security.”
3. Clear Data: Scroll down to the “Cookies and Site Data” section and click on “Clear Data.”
4. Select Items to Clear: Ensure that “Cookies and Site Data” and “Cached Web Content” are selected.
5. Clear Data: Click on “Clear” to remove the selected items, including the DNS cache.
Opera
1. Open Opera Settings: Click on the Opera menu icon in the top left corner of the browser, then select “Settings.”
2. Go to Advanced Settings: In the left sidebar, click on “Advanced” to expand the advanced settings.
3. Clear Browsing Data: Under “Privacy & security,” click on “Clear browsing data.”
4. Choose Time Range and Data Types: Select a time range or choose “All time” to clear all data. Check the boxes next to “Cookies and other site data” and “Cached images and files.”
5. Clear Data: Click on “Clear data” to delete the selected browsing data, including the DNS cache.
Clearing DNS Cache in Windows 10
Using Command Prompt
1. Open Command Prompt: Type “cmd” in the Windows search bar, then right-click on “Command Prompt” and select “Run as administrator.”
2. Run DNS Flush Command: In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
“`
ipconfig /flushdns
“`
3. Verify Completion: Once the command is executed successfully, you will see a message confirming that the DNS resolver cache has been cleared.
Clearing the DNS resolver cache in web browsers and Windows 10 can help resolve DNS-related issues such as website loading errors or connectivity problems. By following the steps outlined above for popular web browsers like Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Opera, as well as using the Command Prompt in Windows 10, you can ensure that your DNS cache is refreshed and up-to-date. Remember to restart your web browser after clearing the cache to apply the changes effectively. If you continue to experience DNS issues after clearing the cache, consider checking your network settings or consulting with your internet service provider for further assistance.
