How to Clear DNS Cache on Mac?
Use these methods to clear DNS cache on Mac. You will not only learn how to clear the DNS cache but also why it is important to clear it.
“flush DNS cache” and “clear DNS cache” essentially mean the same thing. Both terms refer to the process of deleting or emptying the cache that stores the IP address and domain name mapping information on a device.
What is DNS?
DNS cache, or Domain Name System cache, is a temporary database of recently accessed information that maps domain names to their corresponding IP addresses. This cache is used to improve the performance of DNS lookups by reducing the amount of time it takes to resolve a domain name to an IP address.
In macOS, the DNS cache is maintained by the system’s DNS resolver, which is responsible for handling all DNS queries made by applications on the system. When an application makes a DNS request, the resolver first checks the cache to see if the requested domain name is already mapped to an IP address. If the information is found in the cache, the resolver returns the cached result without having to perform a new DNS lookup, saving time and reducing network traffic.
The DNS cache in macOS is automatically cleared periodically or when the system is restarted. However, in some cases, it may be necessary to manually clear the DNS cache to resolve network issues or to ensure that the most up-to-date information is being used.
In summary, a DNS cache is a temporary database that improves the performance of DNS lookups by storing recently accessed information, and it is maintained by the system’s DNS resolver in macOS.
Related Topic: Ways to Clear Cache and Cookies on MAC
Clear DNS Cache on MAC
Clearing the DNS cache on a Mac can be useful in situations where you’re experiencing network connectivity issues or encountering problems with resolving domain names. Here are the steps to clear the DNS cache on a Mac:
Method 1: Use Terminal to clear DNS Cache
Clearing the DNS cache on a Mac using the Terminal is a straightforward process. Here are the steps:
- Open the Terminal app on your Mac. You can find it in the Applications > Utilities folder or use Spotlight to search for it.
- In the Terminal window, type the following command and press Enter:
sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
- You may be prompted to enter your Mac’s administrator password. If so, type it in and press Enter.
- Wait a few seconds for the command to execute. You should see a message in the Terminal window indicating that the mDNSResponder service has been restarted.
- Close the Terminal window.
That’s it! Clearing the DNS cache on a Mac using the Terminal is a quick and easy way to troubleshoot network issues and improve performance.
Method 2: Using a Third-Party App
There are third-party applications available that can be used to clear the DNS cache on a Mac. These applications are designed to automate the process of clearing various caches on your Mac, including the DNS cache, and can be useful if you prefer a graphical user interface over the command line.
However, it’s important to note that not all third-party applications are trustworthy or safe to use. Some may contain malware or perform other unwanted actions on your system. Therefore, it’s essential to only download and use reputable applications from trusted sources.
In general, it’s recommended to use the built-in Terminal command to clear the DNS cache on a Mac as it’s a reliable and secure method. However, if you prefer using a third-party application, make sure to do your research and only download from trusted sources to ensure the safety and security of your system.
You can download and install third-party apps such as “Clean MyMac X” or “Onyx“. These apps are designed to clear various caches on your Mac, including the DNS cache.
Launch the app and follow the instructions to clear the DNS cache. The exact steps may vary depending on the app you’re using, but it should be a straightforward process.
Method 3: Manually Clearing DNS Cache
Open the Finder app on your Mac.
In the menu bar at the top of the screen, click Go and select Go to Folder.
In the Go to Folder window, type the following path and click Go:
/private/var/foldersIn the folders folder, look for a subfolder named “zz“. This folder contains a file named “com.apple.dns.plist“.
Drag the “com.apple.dns.plist” file to the Trash. You may be prompted to enter your Mac’s administrator password.
Restart your Mac to ensure that the DNS cache is completely cleared.
In conclusion, clearing the DNS cache on a Mac is a simple process that can help resolve network issues and improve performance. Whether you prefer to use the Terminal, a third-party app, or manually delete the cache file, the steps are easy to follow and don’t require any special technical skills.
