How to Clear DNS Cache on Android Devices 2024

DNS cache is a temporary storage of website addresses and their associated IP addresses on your device. It helps in speeding up the process of loading websites by reducing the time taken to resolve domain names to IP addresses. However, there are times when you may want to clear the DNS cache on your Android device. In this article, I will guide you through the steps to clear the DNS cache on Android devices.

Clear DNS Cache in Google Chrome

Google Chrome, one of the most popular web browsers for Android, also maintains its own DNS cache. To clear the DNS cache in Google Chrome, follow these steps:

Empty the Cache From Chrome’s Setting Page

1. Open Google Chrome on your Android device.
2. Tap on the three-dot menu in the top-right corner of the screen.
3. From the drop-down menu, select “Settings.”
4. Scroll down and tap on “Privacy.”
5. Under the “Privacy” section, tap on “Clear browsing data.”
6. Check the box next to “Cached images and files.”
7. Tap on “Clear data.”

This will clear the DNS cache in Google Chrome and improve the browsing experience on your Android device.

Change the DNS Server on Android

Sometimes, clearing the DNS cache may not be enough to resolve certain DNS-related issues. In such cases, changing the DNS server on your Android device can help. Here’s how you can do it:

On Android 9 and Above

1. Open the “Settings” app on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and tap on “Network & internet.”
3. Tap on “Private DNS.”
4. Select the option for “Private DNS provider hostname.”
5. Enter the DNS server address you want to use.
6. Tap on “Save.”

The DNS server on your Android device will now be changed, and it will use the new DNS server for resolving domain names.

On Android 8.1 and Older

1. Open the “Settings” app on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and tap on “Network & internet.”
3. Tap on “Wi-Fi.”
4. Long-press on the Wi-Fi network you are connected to.
5. Tap on “Modify network.”
6. Scroll down and tap on “Advanced options.”
7. Tap on “IP settings” and change it to “Static.”
8. Scroll down and enter the DNS server address in the “DNS 1” field.
9. Tap on “Save.”

Your Android device will now use the new DNS server for resolving domain names.

Using a Third-party App

If you prefer a more user-friendly approach to clear the DNS cache on your Android device, you can use a third-party app. There are several DNS changer apps available on the Google Play Store that allow you to easily change DNS settings and clear the DNS cache. Here’s how you can do it using a third-party app:

1. Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
2. Search for a DNS changer app, such as “DNS Changer.”
3. Install and open the app.
4. Grant the necessary permissions to the app.
5. Select the option to change DNS settings.
6. Choose a DNS server from the list provided by the app.
7. Tap on “Apply” or “Save” to apply the new DNS settings.

The third-party app will clear the DNS cache and change the DNS server on your Android device.

Flush the DNS Cache on Android Devices (For Root Users)

If you have rooted your Android device, you have access to advanced system settings, including the ability to flush the DNS cache. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Download and install a root file explorer app, such as “Root Explorer” or “Solid Explorer.”
2. Open the root file explorer app and grant it root access.
3. Navigate to the following directory: “/data/misc/netd/netd_dns_events_cache.txt.”
4. Delete the “netd_dns_events_cache.txt” file.
5. Reboot your Android device.

By following these steps, you will be able to flush the DNS cache on your rooted Android device.