Network Troubleshooting: Performing NSLookup (Windows)

Summary

This article details the steps for performing a DNS query, called "nslookup", on Windows.

A manual DNS query can be useful in verifying the name resolution system is working on your computer. Whether the issue is reaching all resources or specific resources, identifying just how the client computer is handling this first crucial step (translating a DNS name into an IP address) can help in diagnosing the problem.

You will notice in the second image below that both the server providing the translation and the results of that translation are presented. Both can be diagnostically useful data points.

 

How-To

Note: Windows has a command-line tool for performing a DNS query. It is called "nslookup".

Task: Perform a DNS query on a Windows computer.

Instructions

Step 1 - To perform a DNS query on a Windows computer (this is universal on all recent Windows versions) open a command prompt.

  • The easiest way is to press WindowsKey + R to open the Run dialog. Type in "cmd" then click "OK".

Command prompt window.

 

Step 2 - Type in "nslookup <destination>" then press Enter.

  • For <destination> enter the IP address or name of the site you wish to reach.
  • For example, to look up www.unh.edu you would enter "nslookup www.unh.edu" and press Enter.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Example nslookup results.

 

Outcome

You know how to perform a DNS query on a Windows computer. You will notice in the image above that both the server providing the translation and the results of that translation are presented. Both can be diagnostically useful data points.

 

Task: Copy data from command prompt window

IMPORTANT: Copying data from the command prompt window is a bit different than most other Windows interfaces. Follow steps below.

Instructions

Step 1 - Right click in the window to get the Context menu

Step 2 - Select the "Mark" option, then highlight the part of the window you want to copy.

Step 3 - Press "Enter" to copy selection to your clipboard

Step 4 - Paste the selected text elsewhere, such as in an email or document.

Step 5 - When finished you can close the command-line window by typing "exit" and pressing Enter.

 

Outcome

You will know how to copy data from the command prompt.

 

Need additional help?

Visit the Technology Help Desk Support page to locate your local campus contact information or to submit an online technology support request.  For password issues you must call or visit the Help Desk in person.  

 

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