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DownSpotter

DNS

DNS server not responding

What that Windows and router message means, and how to recover without risky “repair” tools.

Your resolver did not answer

This message means the DNS server configured on your computer or router did not return a reply in time. It is often local: ISP resolver blip, router crash, or a bad custom DNS IP. It can also be that the domain’s own nameservers are down — DownSpotter will show a DNS failure in that case.

What to try

Reboot the router if several sites fail. Toggle Wi-Fi. If you set custom DNS, confirm the addresses. Avoid downloading “DNS repair” utilities; they are a common malware vector.

Related: Is it down, or is it just me? · How to check if a website is down · How to fix DNS problems