How to Flush DNS Cache [Windows, Mac, and Linux]

Ever tried to access a website, only to be greeted by a frustrating error message? Or maybe you’ve noticed your internet slowing down for no apparent reason. These issues can often be traced back to your DNS cache, a hidden culprit that stores outdated or incorrect information about websites you’ve visited. The good news? Flushing your DNS cache is a quick and simple fix that can resolve connectivity problems, speed up your browsing, and even enhance your network security.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to flush your DNS cache on Windows, Mac, and Linux. Whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned pro, you’ll find easy-to-follow steps that work in 2025. Ready to banish those pesky errors and get your internet running smoothly again?

Why to Flush DNS Cache

Your computer’s DNS cache stores IP addresses of websites you visit to speed up future connections. But sometimes, this cached data can cause problems instead of helping. Here’s why flushing your DNS cache is useful

1. Fix Website Loading Issues

• If a website’s IP changes but your computer keeps using the old cached address, you might see errors like "This site can’t be reached" or "DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN."
• Flushing forces your system to fetch the latest IP, fixing access problems.

2. Resolve Network Troubles After Changes

• Changed your DNS server (e.g., to Google DNS or Cloudflare)?
• Migrated a website to a new host?
• Flushing ensures your system picks up the new settings immediately.

3. Improve Privacy & Security

• Malware or snooping tools can manipulate DNS cache (DNS spoofing).
• Clearing it removes potentially tampered records.

4. Speed Up Browsing (Sometimes)

• If cached DNS entries are corrupted, your browser may take longer to resolve addresses.
• A quick flush can restore normal speed.

5. Troubleshoot Internet Problems

Before resetting your router or reinstalling network drivers, try flushing DNS—it’s a simple first step that often works!

How to Flush DNS Cache in Windows Mac & Linux OS

Now if you are facing any issue which is mentined above, then explore this section to Let's see how to clear the DNS cache for macOS, Windows, and Linux.

1. Flushing the DNS Cache in Windows

Flushing the DNS cache on Windows involves using the Command Prompt. So, explore the below steps for successfull DNS clearing in Windows.

Step 1: Open Command Prompt

• Press Win + R to open the Command Prompt, type cmd, and hit Enter.

Step 2: Use ipconfig

• In the opened Command Prompt window, type in this command and hit Enter:

ipconfig /flushdns

Step Flush DNS Cache

• If successful, you will see a message stating "Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache."

2. Flushing the DNS Cache on Mac

Here's how to flush the DNS cache on your Mac:

• Press the F4 button to open Spotlight.
• A search bar will appear; type "Terminal" and click to open it.

• Enter the following command and press Enter:

sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

• Type your administrator password when prompted. This is required to run commands with administrative privileges.

• Press Enter again. If successful, you won't see any confirmation message, but your DNS cache will be flushed.

3. Flushing the DNS Cache on Linux

The specific commands for flushing the DNS cache on Linux can vary depending on your distribution. Here are some common methods:

For Ubuntu and Debian

1. Open a terminal window. You can usually do this by pressing
2. Type the following command and press Enter:

sudo systemd-resolve --flush-caches

For newer versions of Ubuntu

You may need to use this command instead:

sudo resolvectl flush-caches

If successful, you won't see any confirmation message, but your DNS cache will be flushed.

Other Distribution

Here are some examples of other Linux distributions:

• Fedora/CentOS

sudo service nscd restart

• Arch Linux

sudo systemd-resolve --flush-caches

Important Note: The above examples are just a few of many possible “sudo systemd-resolve --flush-caches,” and yours might differ. For more accurate instructions, consult your distribution’s documentation.

Once you clear the DNS cache, there may be some slight latency when first visiting web pages. This is because your device has to obtain fresh IP addresses from the DNS server. This delay should be minimal, and subsequent visits to the same website should load at the usual speed.

When Flushing the DNS Cache Might Not Help

This DNS (Domain Name System) cache flushing is not a magic bullet for all internet connectivity problems that affect your computer. Here are some scenarios where it might not be the solution:

1. Hardware or software problems: If you frequently get disconnected, have a slow internet overall or specific devices experience issues it could mean your hardware, internet connection or software.
2. Website downtime: If the website you are attempting to open is actually down for maintenance or have technical issues then clearing your DNS cache will not just make it appear.
3. Incorrect network configuration: Check again if your network settings are set up properly in regard to your ISP (Internet Service Provider).

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• How to Fix "DNS Server Not Responding" Error?