How to Clear Network Cache on Windows

What Causes This?

Windows stores several types of network cache to speed up browsing and connections, including DNS records, ARP entries, and Winsock settings. Over time, that cached data can become outdated or corrupted, especially after changing networks, switching routers, updating VPN software, or dealing with a bad connection. When that happens, your PC may keep trying to use old network information instead of requesting fresh data.

Common Symptoms

• Websites fail to load even though your internet is connected
• You see DNS errors or “server not found” messages
• A site loads on other devices, but not on your PC
• Network shares, printers, or local devices stop responding
• Internet works only after restarting your PC or router

How to Fix It Manually

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator

   • Press Start, type cmd
   • Right-click Command Prompt
   • Select Run as administrator
   • Click Yes if prompted by User Account Control

2. Flush the DNS cache

   • In Command Prompt, type:

     ipconfig /flushdns

   • Press Enter
   • You should see a message confirming the DNS Resolver Cache was successfully flushed

3. Release and renew your IP address

   • In the same window, run these commands one at a time:

     ipconfig /release
     ipconfig /renew

   • Press Enter after each command
   • This forces Windows to request a fresh IP address from your router or network

4. Reset Winsock

   • Type:

     netsh winsock reset

   • Press Enter
   • Winsock controls how Windows handles network communication. Resetting it can fix broken network settings caused by VPNs, drivers, or software conflicts

5. Reset the TCP/IP stack

   • Run:

     netsh int ip reset

   • Press Enter
   • This restores core network settings to default and can clear deeper connection problems

6. Restart your PC

   • Click Start > Power > Restart
   • This is required for the Winsock and TCP/IP resets to fully apply

7. Restart your router if the problem continues

   • Unplug the router’s power cable for 30 seconds
   • Plug it back in and wait for the connection lights to stabilize
   • Then test the website, app, or network device again

8. Check if a browser-specific cache is involved

   • If only one browser has the issue, clear its browsing data:
     • In Chrome or Edge, press Ctrl+Shift+Delete
     • Set Time range to All time
     • Select Cached images and files
     • Click Clear data
   • Then reopen the browser and test again

Fix It Automatically with Kudu

Kudu can scan for broken network settings, stale cache data, and other connection-related issues that commonly cause browsing and network errors on Windows. Instead of running multiple commands manually, you can use Kudu’s cleanup and repair tools to clear problem data and restore stable network behavior faster.

Download Kudu Free →