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How do I flush my computer's DNS cache?

I've been asked to clear my computer's DNS cache to see if it fixes a problem, but I'm not sure how to do that.

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On Windows

  • Windows 10:
    • Hold down the Windows key and press R to bring up the Run dialog box.
    • Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
  • Windows 7 / Vista:
    • Click Start and type Command in the search field.
    • Click the command prompt icon and opt to Run as Adminsitrator.
    • In the open prompt, type: ipconfig /flushdns
  • Windows XP:
    • Go to Start > Run
    • Type cmd and press Enter.
    • In the open prompt, type: ipconfig /flushdns

On a Mac

  • Open Terminal.
  • Type: dscacheutil -flushcache

Didn't Work?

If clearing your computer's DNS cache doesn't solve your problem, you can test for network-level caching issues by using your mobile device's data network to see if you can get to your site. Make sure you turn wireless off, to ensure you're using cellular data vs. your site's wireless network.

If you can get to your site using cellular data on your wireless device, this means there is network level DNS caching at play and you'll need to contact your IT department and ask them to flush the network DNS cache for your site.

DNS caches also clear themselves about every 24 hours or so.

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