Reset Internet Connection

Updated July 21, 2023 14:16

If you have cleared your browser's temporary files and cookies and adjusted your settings, there may be an issue with the way the network is configured. To correct it, please flush and reset the DNS by following the instructions below. You may also need to restart your modem and/or router.

Note: If you are using a public or shared computer, you may need to ask a network administrator to perform these steps.

Windows
Mac/Apple Computers
Reset your Modem & Router

How do I reset my computer's connection to the Internet (flush the DNS)?

The instructions to flush your DNS will vary depending on your computer. Please see the section below for instructions that fit your setup.

Choose your computers operating system to see detailed instructions

Note: This process may take 5 - 15 minutes

Windows

Note: These instructions will require you to use the Windows command prompt.

Windows PowerShell (Command Prompt)

Windows 10, 8 and 8.1

Note: Save and close any work since you'll be restarting your computer.

Right-click the Start button (the Windows logo in the lower-left).
Click Windows PowerShell (Admin)
1. This was formerly called: Command Prompt (Admin).
When asked whether to allow Command Prompt to make changes to your computer,
Click the Yes button
If you don't see this message, please look for a flashing icon on your Taskbar (bottom of the computer screen)

Note: If you are asked for an administrative login, you will need to contact your system administrator. This usually requires them to login to approve the changes.
A new window will appear for Windows PowerShell
Type the following:
1. ipconfig /flushdns
Press ENTER
1. You should see the following message.
Type the following:
1. ipconfig /registerdns
Press ENTER
Type the following:
1. ipconfig /release
Press ENTER
Type the following:
1. ipconfig /renew
Press ENTER
Type the following:
1. netsh winsock reset
Press ENTER
Right-click the Start button (the Windows logo in the lower-left).
Click Shut down or sign out
Click Restart

Windows 7

Click Start > All Programs > Accessories.
Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
When asked whether to allow Command Prompt to make changes to your computer, select Yes.

Note: If you are asked for an administrative login, you will need to contact your system administrator.
Type "ipconfig /flushdns" and press Enter.
Type "ipconfig /registerdns" and press Enter.
Type "ipconfig /release" and press Enter.
Type "ipconfig /renew" and press Enter.
Type "netsh winsock reset" and press Enter.
Restart the computer.

XP and Vista

Close all browser windows.
Click Start > All Programs > Accessories > Command Prompt.
Type the following at the command prompt: ipconfig /flushdns
If the command was successful, you will see the message, "DNS Resolver Cache Successfully Flushed."
If you receive the message, "Action Requires Elevation" please contact the administrator of your computer to complete these steps.

Mac/Apple Computers

Mac OS X

Close all browser windows.
Click Applications > Utilities > Terminal.
In the Terminal window, type in the corresponding command for your Mac OS X version:
- OS X 11.5 (Catalina, Big Sur): sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
- OS X 10.10 (Yosemite): sudo discoveryutil mdnsflushcache
- OS X 10.7 - 10.9 (Mavericks, Mountain Lion, and Lion): sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
- OS X 10.6 and older: sudo dscacheutil -flushcache
Press Enter again and the DNS cache should be flushed.
You may only see a message if there is an error.
1. If there aren't any messages, then it's very likely it was successful.
Restart your computer

Reset your Modem & Router

If the steps above do not resolve the issue, and you are on a home network, you may need to reset your Modem and/or Router (run a power cycle).

Overview of Modems and Routers

Modems

This is usually the device that is from your Internet Service Provider (ISP). It's usually connected to a Coaxial Cable.

Examples: Comcast/Xfinity, Cox Communications, Century Link, ...

Router

These are similar to a modem but may also have antennas on the device. This is what allows your area to have Wifi.

Modem and Router

Sometimes your Modem and Router might be combined.

Restart the device

Save and close any work on your Computer.
1. This ensures your work doesn't get lost when the internet connection goes down
Turn off your modem and router (if you have one), then wait for about 15 seconds.
1. If you aren't able to find the Power Button, you can also just unplug your device.
Plug in your modem, then wait about 2 minutes for it to boot up and connect.
1. It may take a few minutes for everything to load and your internet connection to come back on.
Plug in your router (if you have one), then wait for 1-2 minutes.
1. It may take a couple minutes for the Wifi to turn on.
Turn on your computer.

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