Have you ever typed in a web address only to find it loads slowly, shows the wrong page, or gives you an error? Sometimes the problem isn’t with the website or your internet provider—it’s your DNS cache. Understanding how to clear your DNS cache and why it speeds up browsing is a simple tech fix that can save you a lot of frustration.
At TechGN, we help users solve real-world tech problems without needing a degree in computer science. In this guide, we’ll explain the DNS cache, why it can slow down your internet, and how to flush it on Windows, macOS, and mobile devices.
What Is the DNS Cache?
Before we discuss the fix, let’s define a DNS cache and its functions.
DNS Basics:
DNS stands for Domain Name System. It’s like the internet’s phonebook. When you type a website like www.techgn.com, your computer looks up the site’s real IP address through DNS.
The DNS Cache:
To save time, your device stores DNS results in a cache (a short-term memory) so it doesn’t have to look up the IP address every time you visit the same site.
For example:
- You visit youtube.com
- DNS finds its IP address (like 142.250.190.46)
- That info is stored in your DNS cache
- The next time you visit, it loads faster because the lookup is skipped
Why a Corrupted DNS Cache Slows Things Down
Just like any cache, your DNS cache can get outdated or corrupted. This happens when:
- A website changes its IP address
- You switch internet networks (home to work, etc.)
- Malware tampers with your DNS cache
- Cached entries conflict with browser or OS settings
These issues can lead to:
- Web pages are loading slowly or not at all
- Outdated content or incorrect versions of websites
- DNS errors or redirects to the wrong IP
In these cases, clearing (or flushing) the DNS cache can solve the problem instantly.
Benefits of Clearing Your DNS Cache
Knowing how to clear your DNS cache isn’t just a geeky trick—it’s a real performance booster and problem solver.
Benefits Include:
- Faster website loading times
- Fixing DNS errors and redirections
- Improved online privacy by removing stored browsing traces
- Better performance after changing DNS servers (e.g., to Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS)
- More accurate site loading after switching networks
TechGN Tip:
If you’re a gamer or work-from-home professional, clearing your DNS cache can help prevent lag, packet loss, and login issues with specific apps or websites.
How to Clear the DNS Cache on Different Devices
Let’s go step-by-step for each central platform. Clearing the cache takes less than a minute in most cases.
On Windows 10 and 11
- Click the Start menu and type: cmd
- Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator
- In the command window, type:ipconfig /flushdns
- Hit Enter
You’ll see a message like:
Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache.
That’s it—your DNS cache is now cleared.
On macOS (Monterey, Ventura, Sonoma)
- Open Terminal (Finder > Applications > Utilities > Terminal)
- Type the following command: sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
- Enter your admin password if prompted
- No confirmation appears, but it works instantly
No, your Mac’s DNS cache is clean and refreshed.
On Android
Note: Android doesn’t offer a built-in button to clear DNS cache, but you can do this instead:
- Turn Airplane Mode on, then off again
- Or, restart your phone
- You can also clear browser app cache (e.g., Chrome > App info > Storage > Clear cache)
This effectively resets cached DNS entries on mobile.
On iPhone (iOS)
The easiest way to reset the DNS cache on iPhones and iPads is:
- Restart your iPhone
- Alternatively, go to Settings > Wi-Fi
- Tap the “i” icon next to your network
- Tap Forget This Network, then reconnect
DNS entries are cleared when the device reconnects.
Bonus: How to Change Your DNS Server for Faster Browsing
Sometimes it’s not just the cache—the DNS provider itself. You can boost speed and security even further by switching to a faster, more reliable DNS service.
Top Free DNS Providers:
- Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
- Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
- OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220
Change this in your:
- Wi-Fi settings (on your device)
- Or directly in your router for home-wide changes
TechGN Tip:
Combine DNS server changes with cache flushing for optimal speed improvement.
How Often Should You Clear Your DNS Cache?
You don’t need to clear it every day, but it’s smart to do so when:
- Websites are slow or not loading
- You’ve changed your DNS server
- You see DNS-related errors
- You’ve been exposed to malware or suspicious redirects
- You’re having trouble with VPNs or content access
Once a month (or during troubleshooting) is a safe habit.
How to Improve Upload and Download Speed for Large Files
Even with the best file-sharing tools, slow uploads can ruin your experience. Here’s how to speed things up:
Boost Your File Transfer Performance:
- Use a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi
- Avoid peak internet usage times (evenings, weekends)
- Use the 5 GHz Wi-Fi band for better speed and lower interference
- Close unused background apps during upload
- Upgrade your internet upload plan if possible
Test Your Speed:
Use tools like Speedtest.net or Fast.com to check your upload and download speeds.
Other Troubleshooting Tips if Flushing DNS Doesn’t Help
Still having internet issues? Try these alongside DNS cache clearing:
- Restart your router
- Clear your browser cache and cookies
- Run a malware scan
- Reset network settings
- Disable browser extensions temporarily
Sometimes the problem is with your browser or app, not DNS alone.
When your internet feels sluggish or websites don’t load properly, the issue might not be your connection—it could be your DNS cache. Now that you know how to clear your DNS cache and why it speeds up browsing, you can take action in just a few clicks.
At TechGN, tech fixes should be simple, fast, and effective. Clearing your DNS cache is one of the easiest ways to solve internet issues, improve speed, and get back to smooth streaming, gaming, and browsing.
Need help optimizing your internet setup or switching DNS providers? Contact TechGN today for expert support.
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