Flushing the DNS cache can help resolve website access problems, incorrect website redirections, and name resolution issues.
Introduction
Windows uses a feature called the DNS cache to remember the addresses of websites you have recently visited.
This helps websites load more quickly because Windows does not need to repeatedly look up the address of the same website.
Occasionally, the DNS cache can contain outdated or incorrect information, which may cause problems accessing websites.
Clearing the cache forces Windows to obtain fresh information from DNS servers.
When Should You Flush the DNS Cache?
Flushing the DNS cache can be useful if:
✅ A website has recently changed address
✅ A website will not load
✅ You receive DNS-related errors
✅ A website is opening the wrong page
✅ You have changed DNS settings
✅ You are troubleshooting network issues
How to flush DNS cache
From a command prompt:
type: ipconfig /flushdns
Once successfully flushed, you’ll get this response:
Windows IP Configuration
Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache.
Helpful Related Commands
Renew the IP address: ipconfig /renew
Release the IP address: ipconfig /release
View network configuration: ipconfig /all
Best Practice
✅ Flush DNS when troubleshooting website access issues
✅ Restart your browser afterwards
✅ Confirm the issue is not DNS server related
✅ Consider restarting your router if problems persist