You’re trying to open a website or load an app, and suddenly, there it is: “Windows can’t communicate with the device or resource (Primary DNS Server).”
This frustrating message usually pops up when your PC can’t connect to the internet, even though everything else seems fine. For many users, it’s not clear what this error even means, let alone how to fix it. Do you need to reset your router? Call your ISP? Reinstall Windows?
Fortunately, you don’t need any advanced tech skills or a call to tech support. In this article, I’ll walk you through three proven methods to fix this DNS error using simple, step-by-step instructions. From changing your DNS settings to refreshing your network configuration, these solutions are practical, fast, and beginner-friendly.
Part 1: Change DNS Settings to Fix “Windows Can’t Communicate with the Device or Resource”
One of the most common causes of this error is a misconfigured or unresponsive DNS server. Luckily, you can manually switch to a public DNS like Google’s to fix the issue quickly.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Open the Control Panel and click on Network and Sharing Center
Step 2: In the left-hand menu, select Change adapter settings
Step 3: Right-click your current internet connection and choose Properties
Step 4: Double-click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)
Step 5: Choose Use the following DNS server addresses:
Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
Step 6: Click OK to save changes and restart your computer
Why This Works:
Your system might be set to use a default DNS server that’s temporarily down or incorrectly configured. Google’s public DNS servers are highly reliable and often resolve these issues instantly.
In my case, switching to Google’s DNS brought my internet back immediately. Not only did the connection restore, but I also noticed a slight improvement in browsing speed, especially when loading new websites. It’s a quick fix that I’d recommend trying first.
Part 2: Flush DNS and Reset Network to Resolve “Windows Can’t Communicate with the Device or Resource”
If changing DNS settings didn’t work, the issue might lie deeper in your system’s cached network data. Flushing the DNS and resetting IP settings can clear out any corrupted configurations.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Press Win + S, type cmd, then right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator
Step 2: In the Command Prompt, enter the following commands one at a time, pressing Enter after each:
ipconfig /flushdns
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
netsh int ip reset
Step 3: Restart your computer and check if the error is resolved
Why This Works:
These commands refresh your IP configuration and clear the DNS resolver cache, which may have become outdated or corrupted. It’s like giving your network settings a clean slate.
Running these commands took about 30 seconds, and I noticed a brief pause during the netsh int ip reset step, but after restarting, everything clicked back into place. The internet connection was stable, and the DNS error didn’t reappear.
Part 3: Update or Reinstall Network Drivers to Fix “Windows Can’t Communicate with the Device or Resource”
When your network drivers are outdated or corrupted, they can interfere with how your system connects to DNS servers, leading to this frustrating error.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Press Win + X and select Device Manager
Step 2: Expand the section called Network Adapters
Step 3: Right-click your active network adapter and select Update driver
Step 4: Choose Search automatically for drivers and let Windows update if available
Step 5: If updating doesn’t help, right-click the adapter again and choose Uninstall device
Step 6: Restart your PC. Windows will reinstall the latest driver automatically
Why This Works:
Network drivers act as the bridge between your operating system and internet hardware. A faulty driver can block proper communication with DNS servers, and updating or reinstalling it often solves the problem.
After trying other fixes with no luck, updating the network driver finally did the trick for me. The error disappeared after a reboot, and I haven’t seen it return since. If you’ve tried DNS and network resets without success, don’t skip this step.
Part 4: Use WPS Office After Fixing “Windows Can’t Communicate with the Device or Resource” Error
Once your internet connection is restored, it’s time to get back to work. And if you're looking for a fast, lightweight office suite that runs smoothly even after system hiccups, WPS Office is your go-to solution.
Why WPS Office Helps:
Quick to launch – No long waits, even on older Windows PCs
Highly compatible – Open, edit, and save files in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats
Feature-rich – Includes built-in PDF tools and smart AI writing assistants
Cloud integration – Auto-save your work to the cloud to avoid data loss
Offline-ready – Continue working on documents even if your internet goes down again
After fixing the DNS issue, I immediately jumped back into a client report I had been drafting in WPS Writer. It opened without a hitch, and thanks to autosave, none of my progress was lost. WPS Office helped me pick up right where I left off without missing a beat.
Whether you’re dealing with spreadsheets, presentations, or just jotting down notes, WPS Office makes the transition from tech trouble to productivity seamless.
FAQs
Q1: What causes this DNS error on Windows?
This error usually stems from incorrect DNS settings, a corrupt DNS cache, outdated or broken network drivers, or a misconfigured network adapter.
Q2: Can restarting the router fix this error?
Sometimes, yes. If the issue lies with your local network or router's DNS settings, a simple reboot may help resolve the problem temporarily.
Q3: Is it safe to use Google’s DNS (8.8.8.8)?
Absolutely. Google's DNS is secure, fast, and one of the most recommended public DNS options globally. It’s often more reliable than default ISP DNS servers.
Q4: Do I need admin rights to fix this error?
For most solutions, like changing DNS settings, running network reset commands, or updating drivers, you will need administrator privileges on your PC.
Summary
The “Windows can’t communicate with the device or resource” error is a common but fixable issue, usually linked to DNS configuration problems, corrupted cache, or outdated network drivers.
Fortunately, you don’t need to be a tech expert to solve it. Start by changing your DNS settings to Google’s reliable public servers. If that doesn’t work, flush your DNS and reset the network. Still no luck? Updating or reinstalling your network drivers might be the key.
Once you're back online, don’t forget to return to productivity with WPS Office, a smart, lightweight alternative to traditional office suites. It’s fast, compatible, and helps you keep your workflow uninterrupted. Fix the error. Reconnect. And get back to what matters.
