My browser stumbles when I open it

QWhen I open my browser, I see the spinning beach ball and the message “Resolving host”. What’s wrong? by Daniel Tuerk

AIf this affects just one browser, the problem lies in its settings, which are trying to open a homepage that can’t be found using the Domain Name System (DNS) service that converts between humanand machine-readable addresses. Chrome has been prone to this: empty its cache and disable DNS prefetching in its preferences.

If all browsers are affected, the DNS server in System Preferences’ Network pane is incorrect. Select your network connection on the left side of that pane, click Advanced, then click the DNS tab. Set the first entry to your router’s IP address, followed by two IP addresses of a good DNS service, such as OpenDNS – see opendns.com/setupguide.

The issue can also occur when using some web proxy or VPN services, or if your chosen homepage is no longer reachable.

When all browsers are affected, fix the DNS settings in Network preferences, giving your router’s IP address first.

When a single browser is affected, check its DNS settings and whether it’s trying to use an incorrect proxy.