How to Fix DNS Server Not Responding Error in WordPress

Are you getting the error “DNS Server Not Responding” on your browser?

The Domain Name System (DNS) enables people to access websites on the internet using web browsers. 

Think of it as a directory that converts domain names and hostnames to Internet Protocol (IP) addresses.

Sometimes, the web browser is unable to connect to the site and displays the “DNS server not responding” error message instead.

This error is commonly caused by the DNS server failing to map hostnames to IP addresses correctly.

This error could be caused by a variety of factors, including the wrong DNS server addresses and misconfigured network devices. 

There are many reasons why this happens, and we are going to look at 9 potential solutions to solve this “DNS Server Not Responding” problem. Use those solutions to solve your problem and continue your journey.

With that said, let’s get right into it.

What Exactly is the “DNS Server Not Responding” error in WordPress?

The ‘DNS server not responding’ error is among the most common WordPress errors that users encounter.

This problem prevents you from browsing your own website, making troubleshooting difficult. Many newcomers are still determining whether this inaccuracy is unique to them or if it is seen by everyone.

The ‘DNS server not responding’ error indicates that your browser was unable to connect to the servers hosting the website.

This error is frequently caused by an inaccessible DNS provider, firewall issues, network connectivity problems, or a problem with your internet modem or router.

Quick Fix of “DNS Server Not Responding” Error in WordPress

If you do not have time to read the whole article and know your way around technical steps, you can directly follow the below method to solve the problem.

Here are some steps to help you fix the “DNS Server Not Responding” error. I’ll explain more detail in the following sections:

• Try using a different web browser.
• Access the website using a different device.
• Restart your router.
• Check for network issues.
• Manually set your DNS server.
• Clear the DNS cache.
• Disable Internet Protocol Version 6.
• Turn off your antivirus and firewall programs for the time being.
• Reset your DNS settings.
• Update your network adapter driver.
• Turn off all network connections except the one you’re using for internet access.
• Restart your computer in Safe Mode.

Fix “DNS Server Not Responding” Error in WordPress 9 Simple Ways

The following part of the post will provide detailed information as well as several solutions to the error. Don’t worry about system-specific issues; the methods described here will address Windows and Mic issues.

1. Check your internet connection

You may see the ‘DNS server not responding’ error because your internet connection has been disconnected. So, before beginning, make sure you are currently connected to the internet.

If your Wi-Fi is connected but the issue persists, try restarting your internet connection by turning your computer on and off.

Alternatively, you can disconnect your router from the power supply and wait at least a minute before reconnecting it.

2. Try a Different Browser

Second, try another browser and see if it resolves the DNS issue. It could be as simple as switching browsers or updating the one you’re currently using.

How do you switch browsers?

Open a new one and try surfing some websites. For example, if you often use Chrome or Safari, try Firefox or Edge instead. If trying a different browser resolves the issue, your current browser may require an update, or you may need to remove and reinstall it. However, if you continue to see the DNS Server Not Responding notice, the problem is not with your browser.

You might also try opening the page in a private tab, such as through Chrome’s Incognito mode.

If you can view the website with another browser, it suggests the problem is with your default web browser.

3. Fixing Network Problems

To address the “DNS server isn’t responding” error, start by troubleshooting network issues. This method helps identify and resolve any detected network problems efficiently.

Here’s how to run network diagnostics on both Windows and Mac computers:

Run Windows Network Diagnostics

1. Go to the Control Panel, then Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.

2. Under “Change your networking settings,” select the Troubleshoot problems option.
3. Click on Additional Troubleshooters -> Internet Connections -> Run the troubleshooter.

Wait for the troubleshooting process to finish. Follow any on-screen instructions if an error message appears to fix the DNS issues.

Configure Wireless Diagnostics on Mac

1. Close all open applications and connect to the problematic network.
2. To view the Wi-Fi status icon in the menu bar, choose it while holding down the Option key. Click Open Wireless Diagnostics after that.
3. After the scanning process, click the Info icon in the Summary window to gather more details about each entry on the list.

If this method doesn’t resolve the DNS server problem, proceed to the next step.

4. Connect to a different device

Connect a different device to the same home network and visit the site you’re having difficulties with.

If the second device can view the web page over the same network, the issue is with your primary device.

However, if you are still unable to access the website with additional devices connected to the same network, your router may be the source of the problem.

Using additional connections, such as mobile data, can also help to ensure that the connection failure is not caused by the site itself.

5. Boot PC in Safe Mode

If your operating system isn’t functioning correctly, it could lead to the “DNS server not responding” error.

To determine if this issue stems from your operating system, you should restart your computer in safe mode. Safe mode is a simplified version of your operating system that limits the files and resources used by your device.

Here’s how to start your computer in safe mode on Windows:

• Go to the Start menu, click the Power button, press the Shift key, and select Restart.
• On the “Choose an option” window, click on Troubleshoot -> Advanced options.
• Select Startup Settings under Advanced options and click Restart.
• Press F5 on the keyboard to choose the Safe Mode with Networking option.

For Mac users, here’s how to boot your computer in safe mode:

1. Navigate to the Apple menu -> Shut Down. Wait for about 10 seconds after your device shuts down.
2. Power on your Mac and immediately press and hold the Shift key until you see the login screen.

If your network connection functions properly in safe mode, it suggests that third-party software could be causing the “DNS server not responding” issue. To address this, you’ll need to identify and remove the problematic application from your PC.

6. Disable antivirus software and/or your firewall

Antivirus software and firewalls secure your device by monitoring traffic. These tools can occasionally interfere with your internet connection and cause DNS server issues.

As a result, you should temporarily disable your antivirus and/or firewall protection to see if they are the source of the problems.

If this solves the problem, check that your protection is turned back on. 

Then, go through the settings to see if there is anything linked to DNS that is causing you issue. If your software package offers support, it may be worth contacting your provider for assistance.

7. Turn off your VPN

VPNs, or virtual private networks, add an extra degree of online anonymity by delivering data to your device via an encrypted tunnel. So far, it’s been rather useful. The issue is that the tunnel may be bypassing your normal DNS servers.

To put this notion to the test, turn off your VPN and try to access the page where you encountered the DNS server issue. If this resolves your issues, restart the VPN and look at the settings. You’re looking for controls for DNS filtering. If you need assistance, contact your VPN provider.

8. Clear DNS Cache

You can manually clear the DNS cache without restarting your device:

Windows:

• Press Win + R and type “CMD” 
• Copy this to CMD “ipconfig /flushdns” to clear the DNS cache.

Mac:

• Enter “sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder” in the Terminal window.
• Hit the Enter key.
• When asked, enter your admin password and hit Enter once again.

iOS:

• Turn on Airplane Mode and then turn it off.

Android:

• Open Chrome and type “chrome://net-internals/#dns” in the search box.
• Select DNS on the left, then tap “Clear host cache“.

Clearing your DNS cache forces your device to request updated mappings of domain names to IP addresses from the DNS server. This is important for accurate network diagnostics.

9. Update Your Network Adapter Driver

A DNS error message might be caused by a hardware or network issue. Regarding the network, you’ll have to rely on your ISP to resolve the issue. However, you may confirm that your network adapter driver functions properly by updating it to the most recent stable version. Driver failures occur more frequently on Windows. Therefore, we will concentrate on those.

The simplest method is to let Windows choose the appropriate drivers and update your adapter automatically.

• Select the Windows menu.
• In the search bar, enter “Device Manager.”

• Open Device Manager
• To expand the menu, double-click Network Adapters.
• Right-click your current adapter and choose Update Driver.

• In the next box, select Search automatically for drivers. 

Hope you find the solution to this problem you’re looking for! If you didn’t comment down below, we’ll surely provide you with an updated solution! 

Conclusion

Resolving the “DNS Server Not Responding” error in WordPress is critical for the seamless operation of your website. Following the methods described in this article will allow you to efficiently troubleshoot and resolve this issue. 

Taking preemptive efforts, such as clearing the DNS cache, updating network device drivers, or detecting network issues, can help restore accessibility and performance to your website. Remember to contact your hosting provider or IT support staff if you run into any problems that are beyond your skill level. 

With perseverance and dedication, you may overcome the DNS server problem and keep your WordPress website working properly.

FAQs on “DNS Server Not Responding” Error

Is updating network adapter drivers required to resolve the DNS server error?

Yes, updating network adapter drivers can help alleviate compatibility issues and provide optimal network connectivity, hence assisting in addressing the DNS server error.

What should I do if I have trouble fixing the DNS server error?

Suppose you run into problems when troubleshooting; consider contacting your hosting provider, an IT support team, or online WordPress troubleshooting forums. They can offer advice and solutions targeted to your individual needs.

Are there any ways to avoid encountering the DNS server problem in the future?

Yes, upgrading WordPress core, themes, and plugins on a regular basis, establishing stable DNS server setups, and maintaining a secure network environment can all assist in reducing the likelihood of future DNS server failures.