How to Flush DNS Cache on Windows, macOS, Linux and Chrome
Flushing the DNS cache removes locally stored name-resolution results. It is useful after a DNS change, when a device still returns an old address, or when a failed lookup remains cached.
Clearing a local cache does not force ISP resolvers or public DNS providers to refresh their caches. It only affects the cache under your control.
Compare the domain globally after clearing the local DNS cache.
Flush DNS on Windows
Open Command Prompt as administrator and run the standard resolver-cache command. A successful message confirms that Windows cleared its local DNS client cache.
Step-by-Step Process
- Open Start and search for Command Prompt.
- Choose Run as administrator.
- Run ipconfig /flushdns.
- Close and reopen the browser.
- Test the domain with nslookup.
- Compare the result with a global DNS checker.
Important Concepts
Windows
ipconfig /flushdns clears the DNS client resolver cache.
macOS
DNS cache restart commands vary by macOS release.
Linux
The command depends on systemd-resolved, NetworkManager, dnsmasq or another local resolver.
Browser cache
A browser may maintain host or socket information separately from the operating system.
Common Problems and Mistakes
- Authoritative record is still wrong
- Upstream resolver still has a valid cached answer
- Browser uses secure DNS with a different resolver
- Hosts file overrides DNS
- VPN maintains its own cache
- Router operates as a caching DNS forwarder
Troubleshooting Checklist
- Identify which cache is involved.
- Flush the operating system.
- Restart the browser.
- Reconnect VPN if required.
- Restart the router only when its DNS relay is suspected.
- Check the authoritative result.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does flushing DNS delete passwords or browsing history?
No. It removes DNS resolver entries, not saved passwords or normal browser history.
Will it speed up the internet?
Usually not. The next lookup may actually take slightly longer because the answer must be retrieved again.
Why does the old IP still appear?
An upstream resolver may still cache it, or the live authoritative record may not have been changed correctly.
Conclusion
How to Flush DNS Cache on Windows, macOS, Linux and Chrome is an important topic for anyone managing websites, networks or online services. Use the diagnostic steps above to separate local-device, resolver, authoritative DNS and application problems.
Compare the domain globally after clearing the local DNS cache.