"DNS server not responding": what it means and how to fix it

Your computer asks a DNS server to turn a name like example.com into an address. "DNS server not responding" means that server did not answer. Usually the fault is your router or your computer's settings, not the website.

What to do, in order

1. Restart the router. Unplug it for thirty seconds. This fixes most cases.
2. Try another device on the same network. If every device fails, it is the router or your internet provider. If only one fails, it is that computer.
3. Switch to a public DNS server. In your network settings, set DNS to 1.1.1.1 and 8.8.8.8. On Windows: Settings, Network, your connection, Edit DNS. On a Mac: System Settings, Network, Details, DNS.
4. Flush the DNS cache. Windows: open Command Prompt and run ipconfig /flushdns. Mac: run sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder in Terminal.
5. Turn off VPN and antivirus for a minute. Both can intercept DNS and break it when they misbehave.
6. Only your own site fails? Then it is the domain, not your network. Check that the domain has not expired and that its nameservers at the registrar match your host.

If it is only your website that will not resolve, send me the address and I will check its DNS records for you.

Want the rest of your site checked after it is back? Run a free 40-point check at tinkeraudit.com.