DNS Flushing: Reasons to Flush DNS Cache Periodically
If you’re experiencing connectivity issues, clearing your Domain Name System (DNS) cache could be the solution. A DNS cache can speed up loading times, but it’s essential to be cautious about potential security risks. Keep in mind that each operating system has its own specific process for flushing the DNS cache. We’ll take you through a few of these processes later in this article, but before that, let’s understand what DNS cache is.
What is DNS Cache?
DNS cache is temporary storage that holds recently accessed domain name-to-IP address mappings. It helps speed up the DNS resolution process by avoiding repeated queries to authoritative DNS servers for the same domain names. However, it can lead to outdated information if a website’s IP address changes. Flushing the DNS cache clears stored data, prompting the system to re-query authoritative DNS servers for the latest information.
READ: What Is a Nameserver and Why Is It Important?
How to Flush DNS Cache
1.Microsoft Windows
Flushing the DNS cache on Microsoft Windows is a straightforward process. Below are the steps to accomplish this task on Windows 10, 8, 7, and XP:
Windows 10:
- Click on the Start button.
- Navigate to Windows Systems > Command Prompt.
- In the Command Prompt window, enter the command: ipconfig /flushdns
- You should see a confirmation message indicating that the DNS cache has been flushed.
Windows 8:
- Open the Apps screen.
- Find Windows Systems on the right side and select Command Prompt.
- Run the command: ipconfig /flushdns
- You’ll receive a confirmation once the DNS cache is cleared.
Windows 7 and Windows XP:
- Click on the Start button.
- Navigate to All Programs > Accessories
- Select Command Prompt
- In the Command Prompt window, run the command: ipconfig /flushdns
- Once the DNS cache is successfully flushed, a confirmation message will be displayed.
2. Linux Operating Systems
Flushing the DNS cache on Linux OS follows a process that is quite similar to doing it on a Mac or Windows computer. Below is an easy-to-follow guide on how to do this.
Ubuntu
Linux employs the Terminal as its command-line interface, akin to macOS. To access it,
- Click on “Activities” in the top-left corner of your desktop, which will present a search bar.
- Type “terminal” in the search bar to find and launch the program.
- After opening the command-line interface, execute the following command:
sudo systemd-resolve –flush-caches Once you execute the command in the Terminal, it will prompt you for your password. Enter your password to complete the process of flushing your DNS cache.
Other Distributions
For users on Linux distributions other than Ubuntu, flushing the DNS cache can be done by accessing the command line interface and running the following command:
sudo /etc/init.d/dns-clean start
Upon executing the command, your cache will be cleared.
Google Chrome
Sometimes, there might be a need to clear your browser’s DNS cache instead of your operating system’s. In Google Chrome, you can achieve this by typing the following in the address bar:
chrome://net-internals/#dns
Afterwards, click on the “Clear host cache” button.
By following these steps, Chrome’s DNS cache will be flushed.
Conclusion
Flushing the DNS cache involves only a few steps. Ascertaining the operating system and its respective version that you’re currently utilizing. Afterward, proceed to follow the precise instructions outlined above, which involve executing a couple of uncomplicated commands to flush the DNS cache.
The task of clearing your DNS cache might seem intimidating, especially if you lack experience in troubleshooting internet connectivity or website-related problems.
Nonetheless, as you must’ve observed in this blog, the process is straightforward.
Hope this blog was insightful for you.
If you have any queries or suggestions feel free to leave them in the comments box below!
