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How to troubleshoot DNS/internet issues

When the internet is not working properly, it often feels like everything is broken. Websites won’t load, email stops working, and cloud apps disconnect.

When the internet is not working properly, it often feels like everything is broken. Websites won’t load, email stops working, and cloud apps disconnect. In many cases, the problem is not your internet line – it is a DNS or network routing issue.

This guide explains how to identify DNS and internet problems and how to fix them correctly.

What Is DNS and Why It Matters

DNS (Domain Name System) is what translates website names like google.com into IP addresses that computers understand.

If DNS fails:

  • Websites will not open

  • Apps will show “No Internet”

  • Wi-Fi may appear connected but nothing works

This makes it look like the internet is down, even when the connection is actually active.

Common Signs of DNS or Internet Problems

You may be facing a DNS issue if:

  • Wi-Fi shows “Connected” but websites do not load

  • Some websites work but others don’t

  • Email or cloud apps fail to sync

  • Cameras or printers go offline

  • VPN or remote connections fail

Most Common Causes

1. Router or Modem Issues

If the router is overloaded or has bad firmware, DNS requests fail.

2. ISP DNS Failure

Your internet provider’s DNS servers may be down or slow.

3. Incorrect Network Settings

Wrong IP, DNS, or gateway settings cause devices to lose internet access.

4. Firewall or Security Software

Firewalls can block DNS traffic.

5. Network Congestion

Too many devices using the network can overwhelm DNS handling.

How to Troubleshoot DNS and Internet Problems

Step 1 — Check If the Internet Is Really Down

Try opening:

  • google.com

  • cloudflare.com

If nothing loads, continue.

Step 2 — Restart Network Devices

Turn off:

  • Router

  • Modem

  • Wi-Fi access points

Wait 60 seconds and restart:
Modem → Router → Devices

This clears most DNS and routing errors.

Step 3 — Test DNS

Open Command Prompt or Terminal:

Windows:

 
nslookup google.com

Mac:

 
nslookup google.com

If it fails, DNS is not working.

Step 4 — Change DNS Servers

Use public DNS for better reliability.

Set DNS to:

  • 8.8.8.8

  • 8.8.4.4

or

  • 1.1.1.1

  • 1.0.0.1

This fixes most ISP DNS failures.

Step 5 — Flush DNS Cache

Windows: ipconfig /flushdns

Mac: sudo dscacheutil -flushcache

This clears old, broken DNS records.

Step 6 — Check Firewall and Router

Make sure:

  • DNS ports (53) are not blocked

  • No network rules are blocking traffic

Why This Keeps Happening in Offices

Most business internet problems happen because:

  • Routers are not properly configured

  • Old networking equipment is still in use

  • Cameras, printers, and users share one network

  • No professional IT management is in place

Why Businesses Need Professional Network Support

DNS and internet issues are not random. They are signs of:

  • Poor network design

  • Outdated hardware

  • Misconfigured routers

  • Security risks

AetherGeeks ensures:

  • Stable DNS resolution

  • Reliable internet connectivity

  • Proper router and firewall configuration

  • Minimal downtime

When to Contact AetherGeeks

If your internet:

  • Works sometimes

  • Drops randomly

  • Shows Wi-Fi but no websites load

  • Disconnects printers or cameras

You need professional network support.

Need Help?

support@aethergeeks.com

Aether

Aether

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