WINDOW 11

How to Flush DNS Windows 11 (Reset & Clear RAM Cache) – ipconfig /flushdns Guide

5 SOLUTIONS
JUNE 01, 2025

Network connectivity issues can be incredibly frustrating, especially when websites won't load or your internet feels sluggish despite having a strong connection. One of the most effective solutions is flushing your DNS cache in Windows 11. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about clearing your system's DNS cache and resetting network components.

Deepak Yadav
Deepak Yadav

Website Not Loading

Websites are displaying outdated content or failing to load.

DNS Error: NXDOMAIN

DNS error messages like "DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN"

DNS Poisoning Risk

Security concerns from potential DNS poisoning attacks

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Command Prompt DNS Flush (Recommended)

5 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

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METHOD
Method 1
Overview

This is the most straightforward and widely used method for flushing the DNS cache.

Method 1 of 5
Next Method

Open Start Menu

Click the Windows icon on your taskbar

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Step 1 of 5

Search Command Prompt

Type cmd in the search bar

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Run as Administrator

Right-click Command PromptRun as administrator

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Execute Command

Type: ipconfig /flushdns → Press Enter

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Verify Success

You should see:Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache

Note: Restart your computer to ensure all apps and services reload fresh DNS data.

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PowerShell DNS Flush (Alternative)

2 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

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METHOD
Method 2
Overview

PowerShell offers a modern alternative with a different command structure.

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Next Method

Open Start Menu

Click the Windows icon

Type powershell

Right-click → Run as administrator

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Execute Command

Type: Clear-DnsClientCache → Press Enter

Remember: PowerShell doesn't show confirmation, but the cache is cleared silently. Ideal for scripts.

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Browser-Specific DNS Cache Clear

4 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

3/5

METHOD
Method 3
Overview

Modern browsers maintain their own internal DNS caches separate from the system cache.

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Open Browser

Launch Microsoft Edge or Chrome

Enter in address bar:chrome://net-internals/#dns

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Access DNS Settings

Enter in address bar:chrome://net-internals/#dns

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Clear Cache

Click Clear host cache

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Open Firefox

Access DNS SettingsType: about:networking#dns

Click Clear DNS cache

Warning: Always clear both system and browser DNS to prevent stale lookups.

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Advanced Network Component Reset

2 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

4/5

METHOD
Method 4
Overview

When simple DNS flushing doesn't resolve connectivity issues, deeper network stack problems may be the culprit.

Method 4 of 5
Next Method

Open CMD as Admin

Release IP Type: ipconfig /releaseEnter

Flush DNS Type: ipconfig /flushdnsEnter

Renew IPType: ipconfig /renewEnter

Reset TCP/IPType: netsh int ip resetEnter

Reset WinsockType: netsh winsock resetEnter

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Restart PC

Close CMD and restart your PC

Tip: Run all commands in order, then restart once. Do not restart between commands.

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Full Network Reset (Last Resort)

2 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

5/5

METHOD
Method 5
Overview

This comprehensive reset should only be used when all other methods fail.

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Open Settings

Press Win + I

Go to: Network & internet → Advanced network settings

Caution: Note Wi-Fi passwords, VPN configs, and DNS settings before starting.

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Step 2

Select

Network reset under "More settings"

Click: Reset now → Confirm by clicking Yes

Wait for Auto Restart: Windows will reboot and apply changes

Tip: This erases all network settings. Double-check that you've saved everything first.

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Hardware-Related Troubleshooting

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Restart Your Router and Modem: Unplug both devices from power, wait 60 seconds, then plug them back in.

Check Network Cables: Ensure all Ethernet cables are securely plugged in and undamaged. Replace frayed or loose ones.

Contact Your Internet Service Provider (ISP): If problems persist, contact your ISP. The issue may be on their end or they may be performing maintenance.