DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Fix This Common Error

Introduction

If you’ve ever encountered the dreaded “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error while browsing the internet, you’re not alone. This error typically occurs when your browser fails to find the IP address corresponding to a website domain, preventing access to the site. While this can be frustrating, it is usually easy to fix with some troubleshooting steps.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the causes behind the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error and walk you through multiple solutions to resolve it. Additionally, we’ll provide a detailed table with technical specifications and features to help you understand DNS behavior better.

DNS PROBE FINISHED NXDOMAIN

What Does “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” Mean?

DNS (Domain Name System) acts as the phonebook of the internet, translating domain names (like example.com) into IP addresses. When the DNS fails to resolve a domain name correctly, your browser returns the “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error. The “NXDOMAIN” part stands for “Non-Existent Domain,” indicating that the requested domain does not exist in the DNS records.

Common Causes of DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN

This error can be triggered by several factors, including:

1. Incorrect Domain Name – The website URL might be misspelled or not exist.
2. Faulty DNS Settings – Your DNS configuration may be incorrect or outdated.
3. ISP DNS Issues – Your Internet Service Provider’s DNS servers might be down.
4. Browser Cache Problems – Cached DNS records could be causing conflicts.
5. Firewall or Antivirus Interference – Security software can block DNS requests.
6. Network Adapter Problems – Misconfigured or outdated network drivers.
7. VPN or Proxy Conflicts – A misconfigured VPN or proxy can disrupt DNS resolution.

How to Fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN

Here are several proven methods to resolve this error:

1. Verify the Domain Name

Before troubleshooting your network, double-check the website URL for typos. If the domain does not exist, you will continue to receive this error.

2. Restart Your Router

A simple router restart can clear temporary network glitches:

• Turn off your router.
• Wait for about 5 minutes.
• Turn it back on and try reloading the website.

3. Flush DNS Cache

Clearing the DNS cache can remove outdated or corrupt DNS records:

• Windows:
  1. Open Command Prompt (Run as Administrator).
  2. Type: ipconfig /flushdns
  3. Press Enter.
• Mac:
  1. Open Terminal.
  2. Type: sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
  3. Enter your Mac password when prompted.

4. Change DNS Server

Switching to a public DNS server like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS can resolve the issue:

• Windows:
  1. Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
  2. Click Change adapter settings.
  3. Right-click your active connection and select Properties.
  4. Double-click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
  5. Choose Use the following DNS server addresses and enter:
     • Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 (Preferred), 8.8.4.4 (Alternate)
     • Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 (Preferred), 1.0.0.1 (Alternate)
• Mac:
  1. Go to System Preferences > Network.
  2. Select your connection and click Advanced.
  3. Under the DNS tab, enter the new DNS addresses.

5. Restart the DNS Client Service (Windows Only)

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Find DNS Client in the list.
3. Right-click and choose Restart.

6. Reset Network Settings

If other solutions fail, resetting network settings might help:

• Windows: Open Command Prompt and enter:

  netsh winsock reset
  netsh int ip reset
  ipconfig /release
  ipconfig /renew
  ipconfig /flushdns

• Mac: Open Terminal and type:

  sudo ifconfig en0 down
  sudo ifconfig en0 up

7. Disable VPN or Proxy

Temporarily disable your VPN or proxy and check if the issue persists.

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8. Disable Firewall or Antivirus (Temporarily)

Sometimes, firewall settings interfere with DNS resolution. Disable your firewall or antivirus temporarily and check if the issue resolves.

9. Use Google Chrome’s Built-in Diagnostics

1. Open Chrome and type chrome://net-internals/#dns in the address bar.
2. Click Clear host cache.
3. Restart your browser.

DNS Specifications and Features Table

Conclusion

The “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error can be a frustrating roadblock, but with the right troubleshooting steps, it is usually fixable. Whether it’s a simple DNS cache flush, changing DNS servers, or restarting network services, these solutions should help you regain access to your desired websites quickly.