Changing DNS

Cause

You or one of your players might be getting Unknown host when trying to connect to your server. This error happens because the computer asks your ISP (Internet Service Provider) what the IP is, and your ISP replies that it is unknown.

See also: Fixing “Unknown host”

What is DNS?

DNS (Domain Name System) is the phonebook of the internet. Every time you visit a website or connect to a server, DNS translates the hostname into a numeric IP address. If your DNS is outdated or misconfigured, your computer may fail to resolve server addresses.

Try this first

1. Close your Minecraft client.
2. Completely shut down your computer (do not use restart or sleep).
3. Wait at least 15 seconds.
4. Unplug your router from the power outlet.
5. Wait 30 seconds.
6. Plug your router back in and wait for all lights to be normal.
7. Turn on your computer, open Minecraft, and try connecting again.

If the issue persists, change your DNS server as described below.

Change your DNS (Windows)

1. Open Settings and go to Network & Internet.
2. Click Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
3. Open the adapter options and open your adapter’s Properties.
4. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 and click Properties.
5. Choose Use the following DNS server addresses and enter:
   • Preferred: 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare) or 8.8.8.8 (Google)
   • Alternate: 1.0.0.1 or 8.8.4.4
6. Click OK, then Close.

Flush your DNS cache

After changing your DNS, flush your system’s DNS cache:

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
2. Run the following command:

ipconfig /flushdns

Change your DNS (macOS)

1. Open System Preferences and click Network.
2. Select your connection and click Advanced.
3. Go to the DNS tab.
4. Click the + button and add new DNS servers (for example, 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1).
5. Click OK and then Apply.

See Fixing “Unknown host” for more troubleshooting steps.