Table of Contents
- How Can I Stop Windows 11 from Changing My DNS Settings Automatically?
- What Makes Your DNS Settings Keep Changing
- Six Proven Methods to Stop DNS Reset Issues
- Method 1: Clear Your DNS Cache
- Method 2: Reset Network Components
- Method 3: Modify Registry Settings
- Method 4: Check Group Policy Settings
- Method 5: Use PowerShell for Permanent Configuration
- Method 6: Network Reset as Last Resort
- When DNS Switches Between Auto and Manual
How Can I Stop Windows 11 from Changing My DNS Settings Automatically?
I've been working with Windows computers for years, and I can tell you that DNS settings resetting after every reboot is one of the most frustrating problems you'll encounter. Let me walk you through exactly what's happening and how to fix it permanently.
What Makes Your DNS Settings Keep Changing
Your computer's DNS settings reset because several systems are fighting for control. The main culprit is usually your router's DHCP service, which automatically hands out network settings every time your computer starts up. Think of it like your router being overly helpful - it keeps "fixing" settings you've already customized.
Windows also has a habit of reverting to default settings when it detects network changes. Group policies from your workplace or school can override your personal preferences. Sometimes, the Fast Startup feature causes confusion during boot-up, making Windows forget your custom DNS choices.
Six Proven Methods to Stop DNS Reset Issues
Method 1: Clear Your DNS Cache
I always start here because it's the quickest fix. Your computer stores DNS information in a cache, and sometimes this cache gets corrupted or conflicts with your manual settings.
ipconfig /flushdns
Run this command in Command Prompt as administrator, then restart your computer. This clears out any conflicting DNS information that might be causing problems.
Method 2: Reset Network Components
When your network configuration gets messy, it can force DNS settings to revert. I use these commands to clean everything up:
netsh winsock reset netsh int ip reset ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew
These commands reset your network stack completely. It's like giving your network connection a fresh start.
Method 3: Modify Registry Settings
This method requires careful attention, but it's very effective. First, back up your registry - this is crucial for safety.
Navigate to this registry location:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Tcpip\Parameters\Interfaces
Find your network adapter's GUID (you can identify it using ipconfig /all). Create a new DWORD value called DisableDHCPMediaSense and set it to 1. This prevents DHCP from overriding your DNS settings.
Method 4: Check Group Policy Settings
Group policies can silently override your DNS preferences. Open Local Group Policy Editor and navigate to:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Network > DNS Client
Make sure "Configure DNS servers" is set to "Not Configured" or "Disabled." Also check your network list manager policies to ensure DNS overriding is disabled.
Method 5: Use PowerShell for Permanent Configuration
PowerShell gives you more control than the regular Windows interface. Here's my preferred approach:
Get-NetAdapter | Where-Object {$_.Status -eq "Up"} | Format-List Name, InterfaceIndex
Set-DnsClientServerAddress -InterfaceIndex 8 -ServerAddresses ("8.8.8.8", "8.8.4.4")
Set-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Tcpip\Parameters" -Name "DisableDynamicUpdate" -Value 1
Replace "8" with your actual interface index number. The last command prevents Windows from automatically updating DNS settings.
Method 6: Network Reset as Last Resort
If nothing else works, Windows has a nuclear option. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset. This wipes all network configurations and starts fresh.
When DNS Switches Between Auto and Manual
This specific behavior happens when DHCP keeps reassigning network settings. The solutions above will fix this too, but I recommend starting with the PowerShell method for this particular issue.
You should also perform a clean boot to check if third-party software is interfering. Some VPN clients and network optimization tools can cause these problems.
The key to solving DNS reset problems is understanding that multiple systems are trying to manage your network settings. By using these methods systematically, you can take back control and keep your preferred DNS servers working consistently. Start with the simpler solutions like flushing DNS cache, then move to more advanced registry modifications if needed.
Remember to always back up your registry before making changes, and test each solution one at a time to identify what works best for your specific situation.