How to Clear Your DNS Cache: Complete and Extended Guide

Clearing your DNS cache is essential for maintaining fast, secure, and error-free browsing. The DNS cache stores recent domain name lookups and corresponding IP addresses, speeding up access to frequently visited sites. However, this cache can become outdated or corrupted over time, leading to connection issues, loading delays, or even security risks. In this comprehensive guide, learn how to clear your DNS cache on various operating systems and browsers.

What Is DNS Cache and Why Does It Matter?

The DNS cache is a temporary database on your device that stores records of domain names and their associated IP addresses. This helps reduce load times by eliminating the need to query DNS servers for each website visit. But an outdated cache can cause problems, such as incorrect page loads or connection errors.

How to Clear DNS Cache on Different Platforms

1. Clear DNS Cache on Windows 10 & 11

• Open the Start menu and search for “Command Prompt.”
• Right-click and select “Run as administrator.”
• Enter the following command and press Enter:

ipconfig /flushdns

• You will receive a confirmation message.

Release IP, Renew, and Flush DNS on Windows:

To refresh your entire network setup:

ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns

2. Clear DNS Cache on macOS

• Open Terminal (find it via Spotlight or in the Launchpad).
• Type this command and press Enter:

sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

• Enter your administrator password when prompted.

Note: The command varies by macOS version:

• Monterey, Big Sur, Catalina: Use the command above.
• Mojave, High Sierra, Sierra: Use sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder.

3. Clear DNS Cache on Linux (Ubuntu and others)

• Open Terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T).
• For Ubuntu 20.04 LTS or earlier:

sudo systemd-resolve --flush-caches

• For Ubuntu 22.04 LTS or newer:

sudo resolvectl flush-caches

• Enter your password if prompted.

4. Clear DNS Cache in Google Chrome

• Enter the following in Chrome’s address bar:

chrome://net-internals/#dns

• Click “Clear host cache.”

5. Clear DNS Cache in Mozilla Firefox

• Type the following in the address bar:

about:networking#dns

• Click the “Clear DNS Cache” button.

6. Clear DNS Cache in Safari

• Open Safari.
• Go to the Safari menu and choose “Preferences.”
• Select the “Advanced” tab and enable “Show Develop menu in menu bar.”
• In the Develop menu, click “Empty Caches.”

7. Clear DNS Cache in Microsoft Edge

• In the address bar, type:

edge://net-internals/#dns

• Click on “Clear host cache.”

Why You Should Regularly Clear Your DNS Cache

1. Fix Common DNS Errors

Errors like DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN or ERR_CONNECTION_TIMED_OUT can often be resolved by flushing the DNS cache.

2. Speed Up DNS Propagation

When DNS records are updated, clearing your DNS cache helps your device recognize those changes quickly.

3. Protect Against DNS Spoofing

Clearing the DNS cache helps prevent redirection to malicious websites by removing compromised entries.

4. Avoid 404 Errors from Old Data

If a website moves servers or changes configurations, outdated DNS cache data may lead to 404 errors.

5. Remove Outdated DNS Information

Switching DNS providers (e.g., moving to Google DNS or Cloudflare) requires clearing the DNS cache to avoid conflicts.

Pro Tips for Optimal Browsing

• Clear your DNS cache if you notice slow loading or persistent errors.
• Do so after changing DNS settings or switching ISPs.
• Restart your router occasionally to clear its internal cache.
• Keep your operating system and browsers updated for the best performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is clearing the DNS cache safe?

Yes, it’s completely safe and does not impact passwords, saved data, or configurations.

How often should I clear my DNS cache?

It’s recommended every few weeks or after any DNS or network changes.

Will it improve browsing speed?

Yes, especially after making DNS changes or when old cache data is causing delays.

How do I know if it worked?

On Windows, you will receive a confirmation message. On other systems, no errors in Terminal indicate success.

Will clearing the DNS cache fix DNS errors?

In most cases, yes — it’s one of the first steps to resolve connectivity and loading issues.

Conclusion

Clearing your DNS cache is a simple yet powerful tool to ensure faster, more secure, and more reliable internet browsing. Whether on Windows, macOS, Linux, or using browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge, this small maintenance task can make a big difference. Stay proactive, and you’ll avoid common browsing issues and security risks.