How to Clear DNS Cache: A Comprehensive Guide to Flushing DNS

What is DNS cache?

DNS cache, or Domain Name System cache, is a temporary storage of IP addresses and website domain names that your system saves for quick and easy access. This caching process can enhance the speed and performance of your internet connection.

What does flush DNS do?

Flushing DNS removes all the saved IP addresses and domain names from your system's cache memory. Once flushed, your system will perform a new DNS lookup, which can help with website access issues and prevent DNS spoofing.

Why would you flush DNS?

1. You want to prevent DNS spoofing.

DNS spoofing is a hacking technique that can redirect you to a malicious website that appears to be legitimate. Flushing your DNS cache ensures your system performs a new DNS lookup, preventing it from being redirected to a fraudulent site.

2. You’re seeing a 404 error.

If you're trying to access a website and getting a 404 error, clearing your DNS cache can solve the issue. An outdated IP address in your system's cache memory can cause the error message to appear.

3. You’re having trouble accessing a website.

If you're experiencing connection issues when trying to access a website, flushing your DNS cache can help. The cache may be holding an outdated IP address or domain name, causing the connection problems.

4. You want to keep your search behavior private.

Clearing your DNS cache can help prevent websites and internet service providers from tracking your online activity. This can protect your privacy and security when browsing the internet.

How to Flush DNS

The process of flushing DNS cache is different for Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux. Here's how you can do it:

How to Flush DNS Mac OS X

To flush DNS cache on Mac OS X, follow these simple steps:

• Open your Terminal application.
• Type in the following command: sudo dscacheutil -flushcache
• Hit Enter and input your administrator password.

How to Flush DNS Windows

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to flush DNS cache on various versions of Windows:

How to Flush DNS Windows 10 & 11

• Press the Windows key and X, then select Windows PowerShell (Admin) from the menu.
• Type in the following command: ipconfig /flushdns
• Hit Enter.

How to Flush DNS Windows 7

• Click on the Start button and select All Programs.
• Select Accessories, then right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as Administrator.
• Type in the following command: ipconfig /flushdns
• Hit Enter.

How to Flush DNS Windows XP and Vista

• Click on the Start button and select Run.
• Type in the following command: cmd
• Hit Enter.
• Type in the following command: ipconfig /flushdns
• Hit Enter.

How to Flush DNS Linux

To flush DNS cache on Linux, open your terminal and type in the following command: sudo /etc/init.d/dns-clean start

How to Clear DNS Cache on Chrome

If you're using Google Chrome, clearing your browser's DNS cache can help solve website access or loading problems. Here's how you can do it:

• Open your Chrome browser and click on the three-dot menu icon located on the top-right corner of your screen.
• Select More Tools and then select Clear Browsing Data from the options.
• Make sure you select the Cached images and files and Cookies and other site data checkboxes.
• Select a time range, then click on Clear data.

Flushing Your DNS Cache

Clearing your DNS cache can help prevent website access issues and protect your privacy online. Make sure to regularly flush your DNS to receive updated IP addresses and domain name information. Use the guides mentioned above to flush your DNS cache with ease and improve your internet connection's performance.