Most PC users are looking for ways to enhance their computer privacy. Dynamic IP addresses and private DNS servers are a great way to do that. But some PC users, for one reason or the other cannot change the Static IP address & DNS server on their Windows 11/10 device. In this post, we will outline a couple of ways affected users can resolve this issue.
Cannot change Static IP address & DNS server
Many privacy-concerned users understand why changing their IP address and DNS servers on Windows 11/10 operating systems is critical. It’s problematic when that’s not possible.
If you encounter this issue, you can try any of the methods below to resolve it.
- Set static IP address using PowerShell
- Reset your IP address using CMD
- Change your DNS server using PowerShell
- Flush your DNS and Reset Winsock
- Set DHCP IP assignment
- Use a VPN service
Let’s take a look at the description of the step-by-step process for each of the methods.
1] Set static IP address using PowerShell
You can set a static IP address on your Windows device using PowerShell and other 3 methods.
2] Reset your IP address using CMD
You can find out, reset, renew, configure, and change the IP address in order to use a static IP on your Windows computer.
3] Change your DNS server using PowerShell
Instead of opening the Network Connections window, you can go through this step-by-step guide and change your DNS server on your Windows device using Command Prompt or PowerShell.
4] Flush your DNS and reset Winsock
Here, you can clear, reset, flush the DNS Cache in Windows 11/10. And, also you can reset Winsock.
5] Set DHCP IP assignment
To set DHCP IP assignment on your Windows 11/10 device, do the following:
- Press the Windows key + I to open Settings.
- Tap or click Network & Internet.
- If you’re using Wi-Fi, on the left pane, select Wi-Fi > Manage known networks. Then, pick your network and click the Properties button.
- For Ethernet, on the left pane, select Ethernet and then your network.
- Scroll down to IP settings, click Edit under IP assignment.
- Select Automatic (DHCP).
- Click Save.
If you use automatic DHCP settings, it will be easier to configure TCP/IP settings on your Windows PC.
6] Use a VPN service
Last but not the least, if you wish to regularly change your IP address and protect your DNS queries, you can opt for a VPN service and easily configure a VPN connection on your Windows device. Connecting to a VPN IP address will not only hide your true IP and location but also encrypt all data traffic to secure your network.
I hope you find this post helpful.
How do I fix DNS Server is unavailable in Windows?
If you see a Your DNS Server might be unavailable error on your Windows 11/10 computer, then flush the DNS cache, and renew the IP address (if needed). If that doesn’t work, then temporarily disable your antivirus tool or Windows Firewall, and see if your problem is gone. Disabling the Proxy and resetting the TCP/IP can also be helpful.
Read: How to change IP address without VPN in Windows
How do I fix unable to resolve DNS?
If you find that there is some issue with your DNS server, then you can resolve the DNS issue on a Windows 11/10 computer using some simple solutions. First, you should power-cycle your router, modem, and computer. If this doesn’t resolve your DNS issue, then flush the DNS cache and reset Winsock. Also, update your network drivers and turn on the Microsoft LLPD Protocol Driver by accessing the Wi-Fi Properties.