If your Mac is having trouble loading a website that works fine on other devices, the issue may be with the DNS cache. To resolve connectivity problems, clearing the DNS cache on your MacBook can help the website load properly. If you’re unfamiliar with DNS cache and its impact on your Mac’s performance, don’t worry we’ve got you covered. This guide will explain why clearing the DNS cache is important and provide step-by-step instructions for doing so on any version of macOS. Let’s get started!
What is DNS Cache?
The DNS (Domain Name System) functions like an internet phone book, translating domain names into IP addresses so you can access websites. A DNS cache is a memory component on your device’s operating system or browser that keeps track of previous DNS server requests.
Your Mac uses this cached information to handle future requests more efficiently. Instead of making a new request every time, your browser can use the stored data to quickly load websites. This reduces the need for repeated communication with a remote DNS server, saving time and delivering faster results.
How to Clear DNS Cache on Mac
Clearing the DNS cache on your Mac is a straightforward and quick process, even if you’re not very tech-savvy. Simply open Terminal and paste a command to get it done. Here’s how to flush the DNS cache on your Mac using the Terminal Command.
1. Open Terminal on your Mac. The fastest method is to press Command + Space to open Spotlight and search for “Terminal.” Alternatively, you can open Launchpad from the Dock, search for Terminal, or navigate to Finder > Applications > Utilities > Terminal.
2. Next, enter the following command:
sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
3. Press Return, then enter your Mac’s password and press Return again. Keep in mind that your password will not be displayed as you type it in Terminal.
4. The DNS cache on your Mac will be reset immediately. You won’t receive a confirmation message; when you see a new line, it means your command has been executed.
How to Clear DNS Cache on Older macOS
The DNS flush command varies depending on the macOS version. While the overall process remains the same, you’ll need to use different Terminal commands for different versions of macOS.
What does DNS Flushing Do? Why is it important?
Over time, the DNS cache can become corrupted or outdated due to outdated website information (such as changes in IP addresses), technical issues, or malware. When this occurs, your Mac may use incorrect local cache data to load a webpage. If your web browser finds a wrong or unusable IP address in the DNS cache for the URL you entered, it may prevent the page from loading properly. You might also experience slow loading times or issues with specific elements, like videos, and could even see a 404 error.
To resolve such connectivity problems, flushing the DNS cache on your Mac can help. This action clears your Mac’s local DNS records, prompting your browser to retrieve updated information from the DNS server the next time you visit a website. This process can enhance your browsing experience and speed up your browser.
Flushing the DNS cache is particularly important if you’re unable to access a website or encounter a 404 error. It also helps prevent DNS spoofing (or DNS cache poisoning), an attack where malicious parties manipulate DNS records with false information to redirect users to fraudulent or harmful websites.
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