Fixing the DNS Address Cannot Be Found Error in Windows 11: 10 Proven Solutions

Windows 11 is a sleek and modern operating system, but like its predecessors, it's not immune to pesky errors that can disrupt your connection to the digital world. One particularly frustrating issue is the "DNS address cannot be found" error, which can leave you feeling like your internet is more of a distant dream than a click away. If you've been staring at that error message, fret not! We've got a detailed guide to resolve it and ensure you get back online in no time.

Understanding the DNS Issue​

Before we dive into the fixes, let’s unpack what this error really means. DNS, or Domain Name System, works like a phonebook for the internet. It translates human-friendly domain names (like www.example.com) into IP addresses that computers can understand. When your computer can't retrieve the DNS address, it essentially can't find the server that hosts the website you're trying to visit. It's like trying to call a friend without knowing their phone number. Not ideal, right?

Quick Fixes to Try First​

• Restart Your Router: Sometimes, all your router needs is a little break. Power it off, count to 30, and then switch it back on. This can resolve minor connectivity issues that may cause DNS errors.
• Update Windows: Keeping your operating system up to date can resolve many issues. Click the Windows icon, head to Settings > Windows Update, and check for updates. Install anything available—your future self will thank you!
• Reinstall Google Chrome: If you're using Chrome, consider uninstalling it and then downloading a fresh version from the official site. A clean slate can work wonders!
• Disable Third-Party Antivirus Temporarily: Sometimes antivirus software gets a bit overzealous and blocks your connection. Right-click its icon in the system tray and select the option to disable it temporarily.

10 Proven Fixes for the "DNS Address Cannot Be Found" Error​

If those quick fixes didn’t do the trick, don’t worry! Let’s delve deeper with ten comprehensive solutions.

1. Change DNS Settings​

Switching to a more reliable DNS provider, such as Google's DNS, can drastically improve your browsing speed and reliability. Here's how:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Click on Network & Internet.
3. Select Properties.
4. Scroll down to IP assignment and click Edit.
5. Choose Manual, toggle the IPv4 switch on, and enter:
   • Preferred DNS: 8.8.8.8
   • Alternate DNS: 8.8.4.4
6. Click Save.

2. Reset Network Settings​

This option restores all network configurations back to their defaults, which might clear out the culprit.

1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet.
2. Scroll down and click Advanced network settings.
3. Click Network reset at the bottom.
4. Follow the prompts; your PC will restart.

3. Update Network Drivers​

Outdated drivers can lead to all sorts of headaches, including DNS issues.

1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Network adapters, right-click on your network device, and select Update driver.
3. Choose Search automatically for drivers.

4. Clear the Host Cache in Google Chrome​

Sometimes, your browser’s cached data can cause conflicts.

1. Open Google Chrome.
2. Type chrome://net-internals/#dns in the address bar and press Enter.
3. Click on the Clear host cache button.

5. Flush and Renew the DNS Cache​

Refreshing your DNS cache can help eliminate outdated entries.

1. Press Windows + X, then tap Terminal (Admin).
2. Type ipconfig /flushdns and hit Enter.
3. To renew your IP address, type ipconfig /renew and hit Enter.
4. Restart your PC to check if the error persists.

6. Restart DNS Client Service​

This service can get a bit sluggish, and a restart might just do the trick.

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Scroll down to DNS Client, right-click it, and select Restart.

7. Delete Files in the "ETC" Folder​

Corrupted files in this folder can create significant DNS problems.

1. Open This PC and navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc.
2. Select all files, right-click, and choose Delete.

8. Restart the Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) Service​

This service manages your internet connection sharing; if it's acting up, so will your DNS.

1. Go to services.msc (as above).
2. Find Internet Connection Sharing (ICS). If it's not running, right-click and select Start. If it is, right-click and choose Restart.

9. Run the Network Adapter Troubleshooter​

Let Windows do some of the legwork for you.

1. Open Settings and go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
2. Locate Network and Internet and click Run.

10. Seek Further Assistance​

If all else fails, it might be wise to check forums like WindowsForum.com or consult support professionals to diagnose any underlying issues that could be impacting your connectivity.

Conclusion​

Dealing with the "DNS address cannot be found" error on Windows 11 can be frustrating, but with these ten proven fixes, you can regain your internet access and once again navigate the vast world of online information. Whether you need to shift your DNS settings, reset network configurations, or simply restart a service, these steps can help you get back on track.
Next time you're faced with this pesky problem, remember that the game isn’t over just yet—there's always a way out!

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Source: MSPoweruser DNS Address Cannot Be Found on Windows 11 - 10 Proven Fixes