How to flush DNS cache in Windows XP / Vista

DNS request are cached by your operating system to speed up lookups. If you need to clear DNS cache for some reason(like testing your blog in a new host), you need to know the correct commands to be entered in the command prompt / terminal.

Here is the simple command line shortcut to do it in Windows.

Flush DNS cache in Windows Vista

1. Hit Windows key and type in cmd (do not hit enter).
   
2. In the search results that come up, right click “cmd” and run as administrator. When the screen flashes and asks for permission, accept it.
   
3. In the command prompt, type in ipconfig /flushdns (or right click and paste it to the command prompt) and hit return.
   
4. You should see the confirmation
   

Flush DNS cache in Windows XP

1. Hit Windows+R to bring up the Run dialog box.
   
2. Type cmd and hit ok or Enter.
   
3. In the command prompt that comes up, enter ipconfig /flushdns and hit return.