Sometimes a PC shows a working connection but pages load slowly, some sites fail or apps lose their connection. Corrupted DNS cache entries, a damaged TCP/IP configuration or leftover changes from VPN or security software are common causes. Windows can reset all of them itself.
Run the reset
Open Command Prompt as administrator and run each command:
ipconfig /flushdnsnnetsh int ip resetnnetsh winsock resetThen restart the computer – the TCP/IP and Winsock resets only take effect after a reboot.
What each command does
| Command | What it resets | Helps with |
|---|---|---|
ipconfig /flushdns | Clears the local DNS cache | Sites not loading or going to an old address |
netsh int ip reset | Rewrites TCP/IP settings in the registry to defaults | Slow speeds, dropped connections, odd browser behaviour |
netsh winsock reset | Restores the Windows Sockets catalogue | Problems after removing malware, VPNs or network software |
If you use a static IP
The TCP/IP reset returns adapters to DHCP. Note your IP, gateway and DNS settings first, or recreate them afterwards with the Windows Static IP Command Generator. VPN clients may also need reinstalling.
Still slow?
- Test on another device – if it’s slow too, the issue is the router or ISP.
- Update the network adapter driver from the manufacturer.
- Try a wired connection to rule out Wi-Fi interference.
- Check the PC for corrupted system files with DISM and SFC.
Written by
Inder Kochar
Systems & Network Engineer – I write up the fixes I use with clients, tested on real systems. Stuck on something similar?
