How to flush DNS cache on Windows 10: 9 Simple Methods That Work

Flushing your DNS cache restores clean network connections, helps fix browsing issues, and resolves internal DNS errors. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to flush DNS cache in Windows 10 using proven and safe methods.

What Is DNS Cache and Why Should You Clear It?

The DNS cache stores IP addresses of domains you’ve recently visited. Over time, outdated or incorrect entries may cause:

Web pages not loading correctly
Security vulnerabilities
Redirects to wrong or malicious websites
Issues after DNS or IP changes

Clearing or flushing the DNS cache resets these records and helps restore proper connectivity.

How to flush the DNS cache on Windows 10?

There are multiple safe ways to flush the DNS cache on Windows. Below are 9 thoroughly tested methods how to flush dns cache:

1. Using Command Prompt (Admin)

Press Windows + S and type cmd.
Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
Type the following flush DNS command and hit Enter:

ipconfig /flushdns

You should see: “Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache.” This is the most common flush DNS cmd.

2. Reset DNS Cache via Windows PowerShell

Open PowerShell as Administrator.
Enter the same command:

ipconfig /flushdns

This command works identically in PowerShell to clear your local DNS cache.

3. Restart the DNS Client Service

Press Windows + R, type services.msc and hit Enter.
Locate DNS Client.
Right-click and select Restart (if enabled).

Note: On some systems, this service auto-runs and may not allow manual restart unless specific registry edits are made.

4. How to flush DNS Cache Automatically via Batch File

Open Notepad.
Paste the following line:

ipconfig /flushdns

Save as FlushDNS.bat.
Right-click the file and Run as Administrator.

This is a time-saving option for regular users or IT admins managing multiple devices.

5. Use Windows Run Command Shortcut

Press Windows + R.
Type cmd /c "ipconfig /flushdns" and press Enter.

A straightforward method to how to flush DNS cache quickly without launching Command Prompt manually.

6. Clear Microsoft Edge DNS via Browser Settings

In Edge, go to edge://net-internals/#dns.
Click on Clear host cache.

This deletes DNS caching within the browser itself, ideal for internal DNS clear cache without system reboot.

7. Clear Google Chrome DNS Cache

Open Chrome and visit chrome://net-internals/#dns.
Click Clear host cache.

This action works well when you’re experiencing site issues in Chrome specifically.

8. Use Third-Party Optimizer Tools (Optional)

Tools like CCleaner and Advanced SystemCare include options to clear DNS cache along with browser junk. If used, double-check what is being wiped.

9. After DNS Flush – Restart or Renew IP

To ensure full effect, follow up with:

ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew

This renews your IP settings and aligns them with the updated DNS entries.

When Should You Flush DNS Cache?

After changing domain names or IP addresses
When migrating a WordPress site or domain
To stop browser redirects to old or wrong servers
When troubleshooting slow or failed connections
If you’ve just edited your hosts file or DNS settings

Is Flushing DNS Cache Safe?

Yes, it’s completely safe. It won’t delete browsing history or stored cookies. It simply removes outdated DNS entries temporarily stored by your system.