The flushdns command is used to clear the Domain Name System (DNS) cache on a computer. The DNS cache is a temporary storage area that holds the IP addresses that are associated with domain names. When you flush the DNS cache, you are forcing your computer to retrieve the latest IP addresses for the domain names that you visit. This can be helpful if you are having trouble connecting to a website, or if you think that the IP address for a website has changed.
How to flush the DNS cache
The method for flushing the DNS cache varies depending on the operating system that you are using. Here are the instructions for flushing the DNS cache on some of the most popular operating systems:
- Windows:
- Open the Command Prompt.
- Type
ipconfig /flushdnsand press Enter. - You will see a message that says “Successfully flushed the DNS resolver cache.”
- macOS:
- Open the Terminal application.
- Type
dscacheutil -flushcacheand press Enter. - You will see a message that says “flushcache: cache flushed.”
- Linux:
- Open a terminal window.
- Type
sudo service dnsmasq restartand press Enter.
When to flush the DNS cache
You should flush the DNS cache if you are having trouble connecting to a website, or if you think that the IP address for a website has changed. You can also flush the DNS cache periodically to keep your computer’s DNS cache up to date.
Benefits of flushing the DNS cache
Flushing the DNS cache can have several benefits, including:
- Improved website loading times: By flushing the DNS cache, you can force your computer to retrieve the latest IP addresses for the domain names that you visit. This can help to improve website loading times.
- Reduced troubleshooting time: If you are having trouble connecting to a website, flushing the DNS cache can often resolve the issue. This can save you time and frustration.
- Improved security: Flushing the DNS cache can help to protect your computer from DNS cache poisoning attacks. These attacks can be used to redirect you to malicious websites.
Overall, flushing the DNS cache is a simple and effective way to improve your computer’s internet performance.
