Fixing Mac Wi-Fi Connection Issues Caused by DNS Errors
Resolve No Internet connection on your Mac by resetting network settings and configuring custom DNS servers. Step-by-step guide to restore connectivity.
- Check current DNS configuration. Open System Settings from the Apple menu and select Wi-Fi. Click the Details button next to your connected network. Select DNS from the left sidebar to view the current server addresses.
- Flush the DNS cache. Open Terminal from Applications/Utilities. Enter sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder and press Return. Provide your administrator password when prompted.
- Add public DNS servers. Return to System Settings > Wi-Fi > Details > DNS. Click the Plus (+) button and enter 8.8.8.8, then press Enter. Repeat the process to add 1.1.1.1, then click OK to save changes.
- Delete legacy network preference files. Open Finder, press Command+Shift+G, and paste /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/. Locate and move com.apple.airport.preferences.plist and com.apple.network.identification.plist to your desktop.
- Cycle the network interface. Turn off Wi-Fi from the Control Center or the menu bar icon. Wait 10 seconds to allow the network interface to power down fully, then toggle Wi-Fi back to the On position.