In the world of web browsing and internet connectivity, understanding the tools available to manage and troubleshoot network issues can be incredibly valuable. One such tool provided by Google Chrome is the Net-Internals feature, specifically its DNS functionality. This feature is often used to delve into DNS-related details and troubleshoot connectivity problems. While Net-Internals is more commonly associated with desktop browsers, its principles are applicable to mobile devices as well.
What is Chrome’s Net-Internals?
Google Chrome’s Net-Internals is a built-in tool that provides detailed information about network activities. It is designed to help users and developers diagnose and resolve issues related to network connections. This tool includes a variety of functions, such as viewing detailed logs, analyzing network performance, and managing DNS cache.
The Importance of DNS in Web Browsing
DNS, or Domain Name System, is a fundamental component of the internet. It acts as a directory service that translates human-readable domain names, like www.example.com, into IP addresses, which are used by computers to locate and connect to websites. Without DNS, browsing the web would be a cumbersome process of remembering numerical IP addresses instead of user-friendly domain names.
Accessing Net-Internals on Mobile
On a desktop browser, you might be familiar with accessing Net-Internals through the URL chrome://net-internals/. However, on mobile devices, the process is slightly different, and users often need to rely on built-in features and apps to access similar functionalities. While the exact interface and options may vary, the underlying principles remain the same.
Using DNS Features on Mobile
- Clearing DNS Cache
Just like on a desktop, clearing the DNS cache on a mobile device can help resolve issues where the browser is retrieving outdated or incorrect DNS information. This action forces the browser to fetch new DNS information from the server.
To clear the DNS cache on a mobile device, you might need to navigate through the browser’s settings or use the device’s settings to refresh network data. In some cases, restarting the device or disabling and re-enabling Wi-Fi can achieve similar results.
- Inspecting DNS Records
While mobile browsers may not have the same detailed DNS inspection tools as desktop versions, you can use third-party apps or built-in network diagnostic features to view DNS information. These tools can show you the current DNS server being used and any issues related to DNS resolution.
- DNS Servers
Mobile devices typically use the DNS servers provided by your network (e.g., your ISP or Wi-Fi network). However, you have the option to change DNS servers to improve browsing speed or enhance privacy. Popular alternative DNS servers include those provided by Google (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4), Cloudflare (1.1.1.1), and OpenDNS (208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220).
To change the DNS settings on a mobile device, you usually need to access the Wi-Fi network settings and enter the desired DNS server addresses manually.
When is it necessary to clear the DNS cache in Chrome?
Your browser stores DNS information in a cache to speed up future requests. However, this cached information can sometimes cause problems. Here are four scenarios when clearing the DNS cache in Chrome browser is necessary:
- DNS error messages: When you receive error messages related to DNS, such as “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” or “ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED.”
- Websites not loading or loading slow: When websites are either not loading or are taking a long time to load.
- Inaccessible websites: When you can’t access certain websites, even though they work on other devices.
- Incorrect page display: When your browser’s pages are not displaying correctly or are missing content.
How to clear DNS cache in Google Chrome browser (Desktop and Android) using chrome://net-internals/#dns
The steps for clearing the DNS cache in Chrome are the same for desktop and Android devices.
- Launch a new tab: Open a new tab on your Chrome browser.
- Access DNS settings: Paste
chrome://net-internals/#dnsin the address bar and press Enter. - Clear DNS cache: Click on the Clear host cache button.
Additional information
If you need to clear the DNS cache on your operating system, refer to this article. It provides step by step guides on how to clear or flush the DNS cache on MS-Windows 7/8/10/11, Linux, and Mac OS.
If you need to clear the DNS cache on your iOS device (iPhone or iPad), refer to this Youtube video.
Conclusion
Clearing your DNS cache in Chrome can improve your browsing experience. Following our three steps, flushing your DNS cache regularly will ensure you have the most up-to-date information.