Learn how to clear DNS cache in Windows 10 to fix name resolution problems and improve the speed of your internet connection.
To improve the speed and performance of your internet connection, Microsoft Windows 10 stores important domain name resolution information in a temporary file called the DNS cache. Under normal circumstances, this cache helps you access your internet destination faster by skipping a request to an internet-based device. DNS server. The system usually works fine.
However, over time, the cache can become corrupted with corrupted information inadvertently slowing down your network connection. Windows 10 collects information from the cache first, finds it corrupted, and then makes a request to the DNS server – a noticeable waste of time and affects network performance.
This guide shows you how to delete the Windows 10 DNS file and perform some other basic maintenance so your network can reset its verified information and improve network performance over time.
UNDERSTAND: Windows, Linux, and Mac commands everyone needs to know (free PDF) (TechRepublic)
How to improve network performance in Windows 10 by clearing DNS cache
When you use the Internet on a Windows 10 PC, you create information in the DNS cache that speeds up navigation between and between web pages. However, web pages inevitably change over time and may leave invalid, inaccurate, or unintelligible information in the cache. This messy arrangement can slow down internet access and have an adverse impact on network performance.
By clearing Windows 10 DNS cache, you can eliminate the clutter and re-establish a pristine cache containing valid and useful information. The easiest way to perform this task in Windows 10 is from the command prompt.
There are several ways to get to the command prompt, but the fastest way is to use the keyboard shortcut Windows + R and then type cmd. But you may need to run a command prompt with admin-level credentials. In that case, right-click the Start button and select the “administrative” version of the command prompt. Either way, you’ll see a screen similar to Picture A.
Picture A
At the prompt, type this command and press Enter:
ipconfig /flushdns
The command prompt will return a message indicating that the command was completed successfully, as shown in Figure BUT.
Figure BUT
You may find that navigating to familiar sites takes a little longer at first, but be patient. When the DNS cache regenerates with valid information, your network speed and internet connection should improve – at least until it’s full of clutter again.
UNDERSTAND: Google Workspace vs Microsoft 365: Side-by-side Analysis with Checklist (TechRepublic Premium)
Bonus network maintenance tips
Since you’re at the command prompt and working on network performance, you may want to do some other basic network maintenance.
At the prompt, type this command:
ipconfig /renew
This command will reset your IP address with the router and potentially resolve configuration issues.
When the command prompt returns, enter this command:
netsh winsock reset
This command will reset Windows 10’s Winsock protocols. This can be especially helpful for network performance issues if your PC is constantly connected to the network for a long time. Microsoft often changes the security protocols in their Winsock software during updates, and it’s important to keep your internet connection up to date. This command may also require restarting the computer.
Periodically using these three basic commands as part of your network performance and maintenance regimen can dramatically improve the overall performance of your internet connection and network. However, for many users, these simple tools are often forgotten or overlooked. Don’t let that happen to you.
