How to Clear DNS Cache on Windows (And Why It Actually Matters)

When a user complains that “the site won't load” or insists “the internet is broken,” sometimes the culprit is deceptively simple: stale DNS records.

Whether you’re working helpdesk, managing a fleet of machines, or just solving your cousin’s gaming Wi-Fi woes—this trick might be the quickest fix in your toolbox.

How to Flush DNS Cache in Windows

1. Press Win + X and select Command Prompt (Admin)

2. Type the following and press Enter: ipconfig /flushdns

3. You’ll get a confirmation: “Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache.”

That’s it—no need to reboot your computer or mess with complicated registry tweaks. This command instantly clears outdated DNS entries, letting Windows re-query servers and fetch the most current domain information.

Why This Fix Works

Windows keeps a local copy of domain-to-IP address translations—kind of like a shortcut list to get you where you’re going faster online. But over time, those shortcuts can get outdated, like using an old GPS that sends you to a restaurant that’s already closed or moved.

Flushing the DNS cache is like updating your map. It clears out stale directions so your computer can get accurate guidance from DNS servers—avoiding detours, delays, or those dreaded “site not found” errors.

Real-World Scenario

A client’s payroll app kept showing “server not reachable.” Ping tests worked, the browser didn’t reach the page. Flushed the DNS cache. Boom—problem solved.

Follow it up with a browser cache clear, and you’ve just saved 20 minutes of unnecessary troubleshooting. -- Even after flushing DNS sends your machine to the correct server, your browser might still load outdated visuals like an old login page or broken styles. That’s because it cached things like HTML, images, and JavaScript from a previous visit and didn't bother asking the new server for fresh files. Clearing the browser cache ensures you’re not seeing remnants from the old server—so what shows up on screen actually reflects what’s hosted now.

Try It Yourself

Next time you're faced with a mysterious “site won’t load” error, don't dive straight into deep diagnostics. Start simple: flush the DNS, clear the browser cache, and reload with fresh eyes.

Skip either step, and you might be solving half the problem. Knock them both out and move on to the next trouble ticket. That's how pros troubleshoot.