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17 Sep 10 Security Measures to Prevent DNS Address Cannot Be Found Windows 11 Issue

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Encountering a DNS address cannot be found. Windows 11 issues can be a major inconvenience, disrupting your internet access and productivity. While troubleshooting steps can resolve this issue, implementing robust security measures can help prevent it from occurring in the first place. Here are ten essential security measures to keep your DNS settings secure and your Windows 11 experience smooth.

 

1. Use Reliable DNS Servers

Choosing a reliable DNS server is the first step to preventing DNS issues. Public DNS services like Google DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) and Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) are known for their speed and reliability. These servers are not only faster but also more secure, reducing the likelihood of encountering DNS addresses that cannot be found Windows 11 errors.

 

How to Change DNS Server in Windows 11

  1. Press **Windows + I** to open Settings.
  2. Go to **Network & Internet** > **Advanced network settings**.
  3. Click on **More network adapter options**.
  4. Right-click your network connection and select **Properties**.
  5. Select **Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)** and click **Properties**.
  6. Enter the addresses of your chosen DNS servers

2. Enable DNS over HTTPS (DoH)

DNS over HTTPS (DoH) encrypts DNS queries, preventing them from being intercepted and manipulated by attackers. Windows 11 supports DoH natively, providing an extra layer of security.

 

How to Enable DoH in Windows 11

  1. Press **Windows + I** to open Settings.
  2. Go to **Network & Internet** > **Advanced network settings**.
  3. Select your network connection, then click **Edit** under DNS settings.
  4. Choose **Encrypted only (DNS over HTTPS)** from the drop-down menu.

 

3. Keep Your System Updated

Regular updates to Windows 11 and your software are crucial for maintaining security. Updates often include patches for vulnerabilities that could be exploited to cause DNS address cannot be found Windows 11 issues.

 

How to Check for Updates

  1. Press **Windows + I** to open Settings.
  2. Go to **Windows Update**.
  3. Click **Check for updates**.

 

4. Use a Reliable Antivirus and Firewall

Antivirus software and firewalls protect your system from malware and unauthorized access, which can disrupt DNS settings. Ensure you have a reputable antivirus program installed and that your firewall is active.

 

Recommended Actions

  1. Keep your antivirus software up to date.
  2. Regularly scan your system for malware.
  3. Configure your firewall to block suspicious activity.

 

5. Regularly Flush DNS Cache

Clearing your DNS cache periodically can prevent corruption and ensure that you’re connecting to the correct IP addresses. This simple maintenance task can help prevent DNS address cannot be found Windows 11 errors.

 

How to Flush DNS Cache

  1. Press **Windows + R** to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type `cmd` and press **Enter** to open Command Prompt.
  3. Type `ipconfig /flushdns` and press **Enter**.

 

6. Monitor and Secure Your Network

Regularly monitoring your network for unusual activity can help detect and prevent issues before they cause DNS errors. Use network monitoring tools to keep an eye on traffic and identify potential threats.

 

Network Security Tips

  1. Use strong, unique passwords for your WiFi network.
  2. Enable WPA3 encryption if supported by your router.
  3. Regularly check for and install firmware updates for your router.

 

7. Configure Router DNS Settings

Ensuring that your router’s DNS settings are correctly configured can prevent DNS issues for all devices connected to your network. Set your router to use reliable public DNS servers.

 

How to Configure Router DNS Settings

  1. Access your router’s settings via a web browser (usually by typing 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
  2. Log in with your router’s admin credentials.
  3. Locate the DNS settings (often found under the network or internet settings).
  4. Enter the addresses of your chosen DNS servers.

 

8. Implement DNSSEC

DNS Security Extensions (DNSSEC) add a layer of security to DNS queries, ensuring that the responses are authentic and have not been tampered with. Using DNS servers that support DNSSEC can help prevent DNS spoofing and DNS address cannot be found Windows 11 issues.

 

Steps to Enable DNSSEC

  1. Choose a DNS provider that supports DNSSEC.
  2. Configure your network settings to use this DNS provider.

 

9. Avoid Public WiFi for Sensitive Tasks

Public WiFi networks are often less secure and can be targeted by attackers looking to intercept DNS queries. Avoid accessing sensitive information or performing critical tasks over public WiFi.

 

Security Tips for Public WiFi

  1. Use a VPN to encrypt your internet traffic.
  2. Disable automatic connection to open WiFi networks.
  3. Be cautious when accessing sensitive accounts or information.

 

10. Educate Users on Safe Internet Practices

Educating users on safe internet practices can prevent many security issues that lead to DNS errors. Awareness of phishing scams, safe browsing habits, and the importance of strong passwords can significantly reduce the risk of DNS-related problems.

 

Key Points for User Education

  1. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown attachments.
  2. Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts.
  3. Be cautious of unsolicited emails or messages asking for personal information.

 

Deep Dive: Understanding DNS Security Measures

To better understand why these measures are important, let’s take a closer look at how they protect your DNS settings and overall internet experience.

 

Reliable DNS Servers

Reliable DNS servers like Google DNS and Cloudflare are known for their robust infrastructure and security features. They offer faster query resolution and are less likely to experience downtime, reducing the chances of encountering DNS address cannot be found Windows 11 errors.

 

DNS over HTTPS (DoH)

DoH encrypts DNS queries, making it harder for attackers to intercept and manipulate them. This is particularly important when using public WiFi or other unsecured networks. By enabling DoH, you ensure that your DNS queries remain private and secure.

 

System Updates

Keeping your system updated is crucial because updates often include patches for vulnerabilities that could be exploited to cause DNS issues. Regular updates ensure that your operating system and applications have the latest security enhancements.

 

Antivirus and Firewall Protection

Antivirus software and firewalls provide a critical line of defense against malware and unauthorized access. Malware can alter your DNS settings or corrupt your DNS cache, leading to errors. Regular scans and active firewall protection help prevent DNS address cannot be found Windows 11 issues.

 

DNS Cache Management

Clearing your DNS cache periodically can prevent the build-up of outdated or corrupted DNS records. This simple maintenance task ensures that your system always has up-to-date DNS information, reducing the likelihood of errors.

 

Network Monitoring

Monitoring your network helps detect unusual activity that could indicate security threats. Early detection allows you to take action before issues escalate, protecting your DNS settings and overall network health.

 

Router Configuration

Correctly configuring your router’s DNS settings ensures that all devices on your network use reliable DNS servers. This central management simplifies DNS configuration and enhances overall network stability and prevents DNS address cannot be found Windows 11 issues.

 

DNSSEC Implementation

DNSSEC adds a layer of security to DNS queries by enabling the verification of DNS responses. This prevents attackers from tampering with DNS responses, ensuring that the information you receive is authentic and accurate.

 

Public WiFi Precautions

Public WiFi networks are often less secure, making them prime targets for attackers. Using a VPN encrypts your internet traffic, protecting your DNS queries and other sensitive information from eavesdropping and tampering.

 

User Education

Educating users on safe internet practices reduces the risk of DNS-related issues caused by human error. Awareness of phishing scams, strong password use, and cautious online behavior can prevent many security breaches.

 

Conclusion

Preventing the “DNS address cannot be found” issue in Windows 11 involves a combination of proactive security measures and good internet practices. By using reliable DNS servers, enabling DNS over HTTPS, keeping your system updated, and educating users, you can significantly reduce the risk of encountering DNS address cannot be found Windows 11 errors. Implement these ten security measures to ensure a smooth and secure online experience. Happy browsing!

 

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About Bytagig

Bytagig is dedicated to providing reliable, full-scale cyber security and IT support for businesses, entrepreneurs, and startups in a variety of industries. Bytagig works both remotely with on-site support in Portland, San Diego, and Boston. Acting as internal IT staff, Bytagig handles employee desktop setup and support, comprehensive IT systems analysis, IT project management, website design, and more.

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