If you encounter the error "DNS server is not responding" while trying to access websites, it means your computer cannot resolve domain names to IP addresses. This issue is often caused by non-functional DNS servers from your internet provider. The solution is to manually change the DNS servers in your computer's settings. This article provides a detailed step-by-step guide on how to change DNS servers in the Windows operating system.

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1. What Is DNS and Why Is Proper Configuration Important?

DNS (Domain Name System) is a service that translates domain names (e.g., www.google.com) into IP addresses (e.g., 142.250.187.174). Without functional DNS, your computer cannot communicate with servers on the internet. If your default DNS server is not responding, you need to replace it with a reliable alternative, such as Google DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1).

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2. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change DNS Servers in Windows

2.1. Accessing Network Connection Settings

1. Open Control Panel:

   • Click the Start button and type "Control Panel" into the search bar.
   • Open the Control Panel.

2. Go to Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.

3. In the left menu, click Change adapter settings.

2.2. Selecting the Network Adapter

1. Select the connection you are currently using:

   • If you are connected via Wi-Fi, right-click on "Wireless Network Connection."
   • If you are using a cable, right-click on "Local Area Connection" or "Ethernet."

2. Select Properties from the context menu.

2.3. Modifying IPv4 Settings

1. In the list, select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.

2. In the "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) Properties" window:

   • Select Use the following DNS server addresses.
   • Enter 8.8.8.8 in the Preferred DNS server field.
   • Enter 8.8.4.4 in the Alternate DNS server field.

3. Click OK and close all open windows.

2.4. Restarting the Network Connection

1. Disable and re-enable the connection:

   • Right-click the connection and select Disable.
   • Right-click again and select Enable.

2. Restart your web browser and test the connection.

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3. Testing DNS Server Functionality

After changing DNS servers, it's important to verify they are working correctly. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Command Prompt:

   • Press Win + R, type "cmd," and press Enter.

2. Type the following command:

   nslookup www.google.com
   

3. If you see an IP address, the DNS servers are working. If not, try using a different pair of DNS servers, such as Cloudflare (1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1).

1. servers, such as Cloudflare (1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1).

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4. Alternative Solutions for Persistent Issues

If the problem persists, you can try the following:

• Flush the DNS cache:
  In the Command Prompt, type:

  ipconfig /flushdns
  

• Renew the IP address:
  Type the following commands:

  ipconfig /release
  ipconfig /renew
  ​

• Check your firewall or antivirus software, which might be blocking communication with the DNS servers.

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5. Recommended DNS Servers for Optimal Performance

For fast and secure browsing, consider using these DNS servers:

• Google DNS:
  Preferred: 8.8.8.8
  Alternate: 8.8.4.4

• Cloudflare DNS:
  Preferred: 1.1.1.1
  Alternate: 1.0.0.1

• OpenDNS:
  Preferred: 208.67.222.222
  Alternate: 208.67.220.220

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Non-functional DNS servers can disrupt your internet access, but the issue is often easy to resolve by changing the DNS server settings. Follow the steps outlined above and choose reliable DNS servers to ensure fast and stable connectivity. If the problem persists, consider contacting your internet service provider or an IT specialist.