Have you ever typed a web address into your web browser and instantly reached your destination? Did you think it was magic? Sorry to burst your bubble, but this wasn’t magic. It is the invisible work of the DNS cache. Thanks to this nifty feature, your web browsing experience will become speedier.
However, stored DNS cache does have its drawbacks, and those are discussed below. Sometimes, it is required to flush DNS cache Mac to avoid DNS cache poisoning, troubleshoot website issues, and so on. Similarly, the DNS cache must be cleared on other devices and operating systems as well so that you can continue browsing in peace.
But do you know what a DNS cache is? How does it work? Continue reading to find the answers to your questions.
What is DNS
DNS, or Domain Name System, is thought of as the phonebook of the Internet. It helps to translate domain names like <invalid URL removed> into numerical IP addresses that are easier for the computer to comprehend.
Whenever you enter the address of the website you are trying to reach, your device will instantly know where to go. It will send a request to a DNS server, and this will look up the corresponding IP address. Then, you will be directed to the website you are trying to reach.
What is DNS Cache
If your device has to contact the DNS server each time you try to visit a website, it will become extremely time-consuming and tedious. This is where the DNS cache comes to the rescue.
DNS cache temporarily stores the memory of all the translated IP addresses of the websites you have visited. You can think of this as a handy cheat sheet.
The first time you visit a website, your computer or mobile device will store the domain name and also the corresponding IP address. This will be saved as a cache. So, the next time you visit these websites, your device will not need to contact the DNS server again. It will simply recover the information from the local cache, and this helps speed up the browsing experience.
Advantages of DNS Cache
- Speedier web browsing
Repeated DNS lookups are eliminated, and therefore, the loading time is reduced, and users get to enjoy a smoother and faster browsing experience.
- Allows for offline access
Although limited, you can access some of the cached websites offline. However, please note that if the website has been updated, you won’t see the updated content.
- Network traffic is reduced
Since the dependence on DNS servers is reduced, it translates to less traffic on the World Wide Web. This results in improving the efficiency of the network.
What are the Downsides of DNS Cache
DNS cache has its share of drawbacks, which result in them becoming a hindrance to your browsing experience.
- The information is outdated
Websites get updated, and they might change the IP address. So, when you are using the cached information, you won’t get to see the updates. This might mean you are landing on the wrong website, or you might see an error message on the screen.
- Challenges to troubleshooting website issues
If you are trying to fix website problems, a stale DNS cache entry may make it challenging to diagnose the actual issue.
What are the Methods to Clear the DNS Cache on Different Devices
DNS cache clearing depends on your operating system and device. This is how to do it:
- Mac computer
Open Terminal > enter sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder > type your password > press Return.
- iPhone
On your iPhone, you cannot clear the DNS cache in any easy way. But you can restart your phone, and this might automatically clear the cache.
- Windows computer
Open Command Prompt > enter ipconfig /flushdns > hit Return.
- Android
Depending on your Android version and device, the process will differ. You can consult the documentation of your device. Or seek professional assistance.
Benefits of Flushing or Clearing DNS Cache
- Ensuring your privacy is undisturbed because if anyone accesses your DNS cache, they will instantly know the history of your browser.
- Prevents you from seeing the 404 error message when you visit a website. Also, prevents you from visiting outdated websites.
- Keeps you protected against DNS poisoning. This is an activity where malicious parties might try to access your DNS cache and then change the data so that you are directed to a concept website. It might be an attempt to steal your data.
- Flushing DNS cache troubleshoots website issues.
The Bottom Line
To sum up, the DNS cache is an integral part of your browsing experience. However, stale and outdated cache can ruin your browsing experience. Hence, you have to flush the DNS cache frequently to ensure you are not visiting an outdated website, and this also protects your privacy and security.
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