mac refresh dns: How to Flush Your Mac’s DNS Cache Fast

Have you ever typed a new URL and still saw the same old ads? That’s the DNS cache pulling a prank, like a stubborn memory that refuses to forget. It’s the Mac’s DNS cache—a quick lookup table that stores IPs. When a site moves or you switch DNS providers, the cache can cling to stale data. Clearing it feels like a breath of fresh air for your browser.

The DNS Cache Explained

The DNS cache holds the IP addresses of the domains you visit. It speeds up browsing, but it can become stale. Stale entries can break links, show outdated content, or trigger SSL warnings. When you run a mac refresh dns, you force macOS to resolve names again, wiping those headaches away.

Reset DNS MacBook

Resetting the DNS on a MacBook is straightforward once you know the right commands.

Clear DNS Cache Mac

macOS DNS flush command

macOS Version‑Specific Commands

macOS Version	Terminal Command	Notes
macOS Ventura (13)	`sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder`	`dscacheutil` flush is optional but harmless.
macOS Monterey (12)	`sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder`	One command suffices.
macOS Big Sur (11)	`sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder`	Same as Monterey.
macOS Catalina (10.15)	`sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder`
macOS Mojave (10.14)	`sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder`
macOS High Sierra (10.13)	`sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder`
macOS Sierra (10.12)	`sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder`
OS X El Capitan (10.11)	`sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder`
OS X Yosemite (10.10)	`sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder`	Both commands required.
OS X Mavericks (10.9)	`sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder`
OS X Mountain Lion (10.8)	`sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder`
OS X Lion (10.7)	`sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder`
OS X Snow Leopard (10.6)	`sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder`

Admin privileges Every command begins with sudo, which prompts for your administrator password. When you type the password, the characters are hidden for security—just press Enter after typing.

No output is normal The commands typically produce no visible confirmation. If you see an error, read the FAQ below.

Step‑by‑Step Walkthrough

Open Terminal.
Check your macOS version with sw_vers -productVersion.
Copy the matching command from the table.
Paste it in Terminal and press Enter.
Type your admin password when prompted.
Return to the prompt—cache flushed.

Verifying the Cache Was Cleared

Run dig example.com or nslookup example.com to see a fresh IP. Use scutil --dns to inspect current resolvers. If the output shows updated addresses, you’re good.

FAQ

Why do I need sudo? Because DNS services run as system processes; clearing the cache requires admin rights.

Can I flush without sudo? No, the command will fail with a permission error.

What if I see Operation not permitted? Make sure you typed sudo correctly and entered the admin password.

Is there a GUI tool? Yes—Network Utility or DNS Utility can clear the cache, but Terminal is the most reliable.

Why doesn’t flushing help? Browser caches, VPNs, or misconfigured DNS servers can still block fresh lookups. Restart your browser or disconnect VPNs.

The Bottom Line

Flushing the DNS cache is quick, painless, and fixes a host of browsing glitches. It’s a small step that restores the speed and accuracy of your Mac’s internet experience.

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Flush Mac DNS Cache Quickly: Simple Steps for macOS