DNS Server might be unavailable

A stable and reliable internet connection is essential for both work and leisure activities. However, at times you might experience internet connection problems on Windows 10. One such error “DNS Server might be unavailable” message on Windows 10 can be a frustrating experience. This error typically indicates a problem in the Domain Name System (DNS) resolution process, preventing your computer from reaching the intended websites. Let’s explore what is DNS, the common reason behind Your DNS Server Might be unavailable error, solutions to fix the problem, and restore internet access in Windows 10.

Why DNS Server unavailable on windows 10?

DNS or Domain Name System is a protocol helps translate domain names into IP addresses (and vice versa) which allows browsers to get to websites and other internet resources. For example, DNS helps resolve web addresses (like www.example.com) into the numerical IP addresses that computers use to communicate (like 192.0.2.1).

The “Your DNS Server Might be Unavailable” error can be caused by various factors. It may originate from your ISP’s DNS settings, issues with your wireless router, improper network cable connections, or interference from third-party antivirus or firewall software. Additionally, incorrect DNS configurations within Windows can contribute to this problem.

  • Problems with the DNS settings provided by your Internet Service Provider can lead to this error.
  • Malfunctions or misconfigurations in your wireless router can disrupt the DNS resolution process, causing server unavailability.
  • A loose or improperly connected network cable between your PC and router can result in communication breakdowns, triggering the DNS server unavailability message.
  • Overly aggressive third-party antivirus or firewall programs may interfere with DNS operations, potentially blocking or redirecting DNS requests.
  • Misconfigured settings within the Windows operating system, governing communication with DNS servers, can lead to difficulties in establishing a proper connection.
  • Technical problems or outages with your Internet Service Provider’s DNS servers can result in the unavailability of the DNS server, hindering your ability to access websites.

Restart Your Router and Modem

Sometimes, simply power cycling your router and modem can resolve temporary connectivity issues.

  • Unplug the power cords from both your router and modem.
  • Wait for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  • Plug the modem back in and wait for all the lights to stabilize.
  • Then, plug in the router and wait for it to fully power up.
  • Try connecting to the internet again.

In addition, restart your PC to restart the running process and clear temporary glitches that might prevent internet access on your device.

Check Network Cable or WiFi Connections

Ensure that all network cables are securely connected to your router and computer. Replace any damaged or loose cables.

  • Ensure that the network cables connecting your computer to the router and the router to the modem are securely plugged in at both ends.
  • If any cables are damaged or appear loose, replace them with new ones.

If you are using Laptop check the WiFi signal, or take your device closer to WiFi router.

Disable Security software/VPN

These security programs sometimes have settings that can interfere with DNS resolution. Disabling VPN, antivirus, and firewall software temporarily can be a troubleshooting step if you’re facing DNS-related issues.

Temporarily disable any third-party antivirus or firewall programs to check if they are interfering with DNS operations.

Disabling VPN:

  • Open your VPN client.
  • Look for an option to disconnect or turn off the VPN. This is usually prominently displayed in the interface.
  • Click on it to disable the VPN connection.

Disabling Antivirus:

  • Locate the antivirus software icon in your system tray (usually at the bottom right corner of the screen).
  • Right-click on the icon and look for an option like “Disable,” “Turn Off,” or “Pause Protection.”
  • Click on it and select the duration you want to disable the antivirus (e.g., 15 minutes, 1 hour, until restart).

Disabling Firewall:

  • Open your firewall program. This might be included with your antivirus software.
  • Look for settings related to firewall or network protection.
  • Temporarily disable the firewall or select an option to allow all traffic (this may vary depending on the firewall software you’re using).

Now check if the internet access restored, If the problem is resolved, you can re-enable these programs one at a time to identify which one was causing the issue.

Restart DNS client service

Restarting the DNS Client service can help clear any temporary issues it might be experiencing.

  1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter to open the Services window.
  3. In the Services window, locate “DNS Client,” right-click it, and select “Restart.”

After you’ve restarted the service, test your internet connection to see if the DNS-related problem has been resolved.

Flush DNS cache

The DNS cache contains records of recent DNS lookups. Sometimes, these records can become outdated or corrupted, leading to connectivity problems. Flushing the cache essentially clears these records, forcing your computer to perform fresh DNS lookups.

Press the Windows key and type “cmd.” Right-click on “Command Prompt” and select “Run as administrator” to open an elevated command prompt.

In the command prompt window run the following commands.

  • ipconfig /flushdns 
  • ipconfig /registerdns   
  • ipconfig /release 
  • ipconfig /renew  

netsh int ip reset resettcpip.txt

command to Flush DNS cache

Close the command prompt and restart Windows 10. Now check if internet access is restored on your PC.

Run Network Troubleshooter

The network troubleshooter is a built-in tool in Windows that can automatically detect and resolve various network problems. Running the network troubleshooter can be an effective way to diagnose and fix common connectivity issues, including those related to DNS.

  • Press the Windows key + I to Settings
  • Go to Network & internet then select the Network troubleshooter option
  • The troubleshooter will attempt to identify and fix any issues related to your internet connection, including DNS problems.

Network Troubleshooter windows 10

Once the troubleshooter completes its scan and attempts to fix any detected issues, try accessing websites again to see if the problem has been resolved.

Check Windows DNS Settings

Check and verify that your Windows system is set to obtain DNS server addresses automatically. Incorrect configurations can lead to DNS-related issues. According to users, (report on Microsoft forums, Reddit )Your DNS Server Might be Unavailable problem is fixed after the change and the DNS address to Obtain automatically.

  • Press Win + R, type ncpa.cpl and hit the enter key.
  • Then Right-click on the Active connection (Local / WiFi Adapter) and choose Properties.
  • Select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click “Properties.”
  • Make sure that both “Obtain an IP address automatically” and “Obtain DNS server address automatically” are selected.
  • Click the OK button to save changes
  • After that open the web page to check problem is solved or not.

Obtain IP address Automatically

Use Google DNS or OpenDNS

Both Google DNS and OpenDNS are alternative DNS servers that are often more reliable and faster than the default DNS servers provided by your ISP. And using Google DNS or OpenDNS can be an effective troubleshooting step for DNS-related issues.

  • Again open network connection using ncpa.cpl, Click on your active network connection and choose Properties.
  • Choose “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” from the list and click “Properties.”
  • In the General, tab, select Use the following DNS server addresses.
  • Now enter 8.8.8.8 as the Preferred DNS server and 8.8.4.4 as an Alternate DNS server.
  • Alternatively, you can use 208.67.222.123 and 208.67.220.123 instead.
  • Also, checkmark on validate settings upon exit.
  • Now click OK to save changes.

Use Open DNS or Google’s DNS

Reset the Proxy Settings

  • Press Windows + R, type inetcpl.cpl and press enter.
  • It will open Internet Options.
  • Go to the Connections tab and then double-click on LAN Settings.
  • Uncheck everything except Automatically detect settings.
  • Then, save these settings.
  • After doing it, Restart Windows.

From now, You should no longer encounter DNS server might be unavailable issue.

proxy settings

Update Network Drivers

Ensure that your network drivers are up-to-date. Outdated drivers can sometimes cause connectivity problems.

  • Open Device Manager (you can search for it in the Start menu).
  • Expand the “Network adapters” section.
  • Right-click on your network adapter and select “Update driver.”
  • Follow the prompts to search for and install any available updates.

Sometimes, This problem can be an issue of your ISP. In that case, contact the support center and explain your problem. They will take steps to fix your DNS server might be unavailable problem.

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Robeg
I am Robeg founder of this blog. My qualification. completed Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP). With a strong background in computer applications love write articles on Microsoft Windows (11, 10, etc.) Cybersecurity, WordPress and more.