What is DNS caching and why it matters?
Posted: Sat Apr 26, 2025 11:47 am
DNS caching is when your device or browser temporarily stores DNS lookup information — basically, it remembers a domain’s IP address. Instead of asking the DNS server every time you visit a website, your device uses the cached data to connect faster.
Why it matters?
• Speed: Cached DNS results load sites much quicker because they skip the lookup process.
• Reduced Server Load: Fewer DNS requests mean less traffic for DNS servers, making the web faster overall.
• Better User Experience: Faster website access = happier visitors!
But be careful
• If a site changes its IP or DNS settings and your cache is outdated, you might get errors.
• Sometimes clearing your DNS cache (called a "flush") is necessary to fix issues like site not loading properly after a move or update.
Quick Tip:
To flush your DNS, you can run ipconfig /flushdns (Windows) or sudo dscacheutil -flushcache (Mac).
Proper DNS caching boosts performance — but knowing when to clear it helps avoid frustrating problems!
Why it matters?
• Speed: Cached DNS results load sites much quicker because they skip the lookup process.
• Reduced Server Load: Fewer DNS requests mean less traffic for DNS servers, making the web faster overall.
• Better User Experience: Faster website access = happier visitors!
But be careful
• If a site changes its IP or DNS settings and your cache is outdated, you might get errors.
• Sometimes clearing your DNS cache (called a "flush") is necessary to fix issues like site not loading properly after a move or update.
Quick Tip:
To flush your DNS, you can run ipconfig /flushdns (Windows) or sudo dscacheutil -flushcache (Mac).
Proper DNS caching boosts performance — but knowing when to clear it helps avoid frustrating problems!