DNS (Domain Name System) cache is a temporary database maintained by your device’s operating system to store recent DNS lookups. Clearing this cache can help resolve certain network issues and ensure you’re accessing the most recent version of a website. This guide will walk you through the process of clearing the DNS cache on both iPhone and Android devices.
Clearing DNS Cache on iPhone
iPhones don’t have a direct option to clear DNS cache, but there are several methods you can use:
Method 1: Toggle Airplane Mode
1. Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen to open Control Center.
2. Tap the Airplane Mode icon to turn it on.
3. Wait for about 5 seconds.
4. Tap the Airplane Mode icon again to turn it off.
This process will reset your network connections and clear the DNS cache.
Method 2: Reset Network Settings
1. Go to Settings > General > Reset.
2. Tap on “Reset Network Settings”.
3. Enter your passcode if prompted.
4. Confirm by tapping “Reset Network Settings” again.
Note: This will reset all network settings, including saved Wi-Fi passwords.
Method 3: Flush DNS Cache (for iOS 14 and later)
1. Open the Terminal app on your Mac.
2. Connect your iPhone to your Mac using a USB cable.
3. Enter the following command:
sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder; sudo killall mDNSResponderHelper; sudo dscacheutil -flushcache
4. Press Enter and provide your Mac’s admin password if prompted.
Clearing DNS Cache on Android
The process for clearing DNS cache on Android can vary depending on the device manufacturer and Android version. Here are some general methods:
Method 1: Clear Chrome Browser Cache
1. Open the Chrome app.
2. Tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
3. Go to Settings > Privacy and security > Clear browsing data.
4. Select “Cached images and files” and “Cookies and site data”.
5. Tap “Clear data”.
Method 2: Reset Network Settings
1. Go to Settings > System > Reset options.
2. Tap on “Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth” or “Reset network settings”.
3. Confirm by tapping “Reset settings”.
Note: This will reset all network settings, including saved Wi-Fi passwords.
Method 3: Use a Third-Party App
There are several apps available on the Google Play Store that can clear DNS cache, such as “DNS Changer” or “DNS Flush“. Follow the instructions provided by the app.
Method 4: For Rooted Devices
If your Android device is rooted, you can clear the DNS cache using a terminal emulator:
1. Open a terminal emulator app.
2. Enter the following commands:
su
ndc resolver flushdefaultif
3. Grant superuser permissions if prompted.
Additional Tips
1. Restart Your Device: A simple restart can often clear the DNS cache and resolve network issues.
2. Update Your Device: Ensure your iPhone or Android device is running the latest operating system version.
3. Check Your Router: Sometimes, the issue may be with your router’s DNS cache. Consider restarting your router.
4. Use Alternative DNS: Consider using alternative DNS servers like Google DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1).
5. VPN Usage: If you’re using a VPN, try disconnecting and reconnecting to clear the DNS cache.
Clearing the DNS cache on your iPhone or Android device can help resolve various network issues and ensure you’re accessing the most up-to-date online content. While the process isn’t always straightforward, especially on iPhones, the methods described above should help in most situations.
Also, you can find more tutorials about How to Clear DNS Server Cache on Windows.