First, you need to run the command prompt as an administrator, and then execute the commands in turn to refresh the DNS cache and reset the IP configuration. The specific steps are: 1. Enter "ipconfig /flushdns" and press Enter; 2. Enter "ipconfig /release" and press Enter; 3. Enter "ipconfig /renew" and press Enter. After completing these steps, you can usually solve the "This site can't be reached" error.

The "This site can't be reached" error in Windows usually appears in your browser when it can't connect to a website—whether it's one specific page or the entire internet. While it might seem like a major issue, most causes are simple to fix. Here's how to troubleshoot and resolve it quickly.

1. Check Your Internet Connection

Before diving into complex fixes, confirm your internet is actually working:

• Try opening other websites.
• Check if other devices on the same network can browser.
• Restart your router or modem by unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in.

If nothing loads, the issue might be with your ISP or router—not your PC.

2. Flush DNS Cache and Renew IP

Outdated or corrupted DNS settings are a common cause. Resetting them often fixes the problem.

Open Command Prompt as Administrator (search for cmd , right-click > Run as administrator), then run these commands one at a time:

 ipconfig /flushdns
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
netsh winsock reset

After running all commands, restart your computer . This clears stored DNS entries and resets network components.

Why this helps: Your PC stores DNS info to speed up browser. If that data gets corrupted or outdated, it can block access to sites—even if they're up.

3. Disable Proxy or VPN Temporarily

Using a proxy or VPN can interfere with your connection.

To disable:

1. Press Win I to open Settings .
2. Go to Network & Internet > Proxy .
3. Under "Manual proxy setup," makes sure Use a proxy server is OFF .

Also, turn off any third-party VPN apps you're using and try loading the site again.

4. Change Your DNS Server

Your default DNS (usually set by your ISP) might be slow or unreliable.

Try switching to a public DNS like Google DNS:

1. Open Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center .
2. Click your active connection (eg, "Wi-Fi" or "Ethernet").
3. Click Properties > double-click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) .
4. Select Use the following DNS server addresses and enter:
   • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
   • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
5. Click OK and restart your browser.

This can improve reliability and speed.

5. Temporarily Disable Firewall or Antivirus

Sometimes overprotective security software blocks legitimate sites.

• Turn off Windows Defender Firewall or third-party antivirus temporarily .
• Test if the site loads.

If it works, re-enable the software and add an exception for your browser or adjust firewall settings.

Don't leave your firewall off—only use this for testing.

6. Clear Browser Data or Try Another Browser

The issue might be browser-specific.

• Clear your browser's cache and cookies.
• Or try opening the site in a different browser (eg, Edge, Chrome, Firefox).

If it works in another browser, focus on fixing or resetting your main browser.

7. Check Hosts File for Blocked Sites

Malware or misconfigurations can block sites via the hosts file.

1. Open File Explorer and go to:
   C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\
2. Open the hosts file with Notepad (right-click > Open with).
3. Look for any lines containing the website you're trying to reach.
4. Delete those lines (or move them to a backup).
5. Save the file (you may need admin permissions).

This file can silently redirect or block sites—cleaning it up helps.

Most cases of "This site can't be reached" are fixed with a DNS flush or switching DNS providers. Start simple, rule out connectivity issues, then work through settings. It's usually not a serious problem—just a hiccup in how your PC finds websites.

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