DNS Client (Dnscache) startup type, default configuration, and information
Registry Name:
Dnscache
Display Name:
DNS Client
Description:
The DNS Client service (dnscache) caches Domain Name System (DNS) names and registers the full computer name for this computer. If the service is stopped, DNS names will continue to be resolved. However, the results of DNS name queries will not be cached and the computer's name will not be registered. If the service is disabled, any services that explicitly depend on it will fail to start.
For more information, see the Additional Information section.
Default Status:
Running
Default Startup Type:
Automatic (Trigger Start)
Image Path:
C:\WINDOWS\system32\svchost.exe -k NetworkService -p
DLL File Path:
C:\WINDOWS\System32\dnsrslvr.dll
Dependencies:
The service depends on the following system components to function properly:
- nsi
- Afd
System components that depend on this service to function properly:
Log On As:
NT AUTHORITY\NetworkService
Additional Information:
The DNS Client (Dnscache) service is a core Windows component that caches Domain Name System (DNS) responses to speed up network requests. When you access a website (e.g., "www.smartpcutilities.com"), this service resolves the domain name into an IP address and stores the result locally, reducing lookup times for subsequent visits. It also handles DNS record updates and supports features like split DNS for VPNs and multihomed networks.
Enabled by default and set to Automatic startup, disabling this service will slow down web browsing (as every domain request requires a fresh DNS lookup) and may disrupt internet connectivity. Most users should leave it running, as it operates efficiently with minimal resource usage. Advanced users might tweak it for specific network configurations, but general functionality relies on it.