How to Reset an Internet Connection and Flush DNS Cache

When troubleshooting network connectivity issues, one of the common steps is to reset the internet connection or flush the DNS cache. This process can help resolve various problems, such as slow browsing, intermittent connectivity, or difficulty accessing certain websites. Resetting an internet connection involves clearing the DNS cache, which is a temporary storage of previously visited website addresses on your device. Here’s a brief overview of how to reset an internet connection by flushing the DNS cache.

Windows

Please note: These instructions require you to use the Windows command prompt. If you need help with the command prompt, you can visit http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/command-prompt-faq.

For Windows 10, 8, and 8.1

Go to your desktop. If you’re on the Start screen, click the Desktop tile.

• Right-click on the Start button (the Windows logo in the lower-left corner).
• Choose Command Prompt (Admin).
• If you’re asked for permission to make changes to your computer, select Yes.

Note: If you’re prompted for an administrative login, you’ll need to contact your system administrator.

• Type “ipconfig /flushdns” and press Enter.
• Type “ipconfig /registerdns” and press Enter.
• Type “ipconfig /release” and press Enter.
• Type “ipconfig /renew” and press Enter.
• Type “netsh winsock reset” and press Enter.
• Restart your computer.

Windows 7

Here’s how you can reset your internet connection on Windows 7 using simple steps:

• Click on the Start menu.
• Go to All Programs and then click on Accessories.
• Right-click on Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
• If you’re asked for permission to make changes to your computer, select Yes.

Note: If you’re prompted for an administrative login, you’ll need to contact your system administrator.

• Type “ipconfig /flushdns” and press Enter.
• Type “ipconfig /registerdns” and press Enter.
• Type “ipconfig /release” and press Enter.
• Type “ipconfig /renew” and press Enter.
• Type “netsh winsock reset” and press Enter.
• Restart your computer.

XP and Vista

Here are simple steps to reset your internet connection on XP and Vista:

• Close all open browser windows.
• Click on the Start menu.
• Go to All Programs, then Accessories, and then Command Prompt.
• In the command prompt, type “ipconfig /flushdns” and press Enter.
• If the command is successful, you’ll see the message “DNS Resolver Cache Successfully Flushed.”

If you receive the message “Action Requires Elevation,” please contact your computer’s administrator to complete these steps.

Mac OS X

Here’s a simplified version of how to reset your internet connection on Mac OS X:

• Close all open browser windows.
• Click on the Applications folder.
• Open the Utilities folder and find Terminal.
• In the Terminal window, type the appropriate command based on your Mac OS X version:
• For OS X 10.10 (Yosemite): Type “sudo discoveryutil mdnsflushcache” and press Enter.
• For OS X 10.7 – 10.9 (Mavericks, Mountain Lion, and Lion): Type “sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder” and press Enter.
• For OS X 10.6 and older: Type “sudo dscacheutil -flushcache” and press Enter.
• Press Enter again, and the DNS cache should be flushed.

Additional Steps

If the previous steps did not solve the problem and you’re using a home network, you can try performing a power cycle:

1. Turn off your computer.
2. Turn off your modem and router (if you have one), and wait for about 15 seconds.
3. Plug in your modem, and wait for 1-2 minutes.
4. Plug in your router (if you have one), and wait for 1-2 minutes.
5. Turn on your computer.

In conclusion

Resetting an internet connection and flushing the DNS cache can be effective troubleshooting steps for resolving network connectivity issues. Whether you’re experiencing slow browsing, intermittent connectivity, or difficulty accessing certain websites, following the appropriate instructions based on your operating system can help refresh your connection and clear any temporary storage of website addresses. By utilizing commands through the Windows command prompt or Terminal in Mac OS X, you can flush the DNS cache and perform additional steps like releasing and renewing IP configurations or resetting network settings. In some cases, a power cycle of your computer, modem, and router may be necessary to fully resolve the problem. These simple techniques can greatly improve your internet experience and ensure smoother connectivity.