The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN message appears when your browser can’t find the IP address of the website you’re trying to visit. In simple terms, the internet can’t figure out where that site lives.
When this happens, Chrome usually says “This site can’t be reached”, while other browsers show similar messages like “Can’t find server” or “Can’t reach this page.”
Common Causes
This error can come from either your side or the website’s side. The most common reasons include:
- Incorrect or expired domain name: The site’s domain might have expired or was typed wrong.
- Bad DNS setup: The DNS records (like A or CNAME) are missing or misconfigured.
- Cached data issues: Your device might be using an old or broken DNS cache.
- Faulty DNS servers: Your internet provider’s DNS servers are slow or not responding.
- VPN or antivirus interference: Security tools can sometimes block connections.
- Browser settings or cache problems: Old cache or experimental settings can trigger DNS errors.
- Router or network issues: Your connection may simply need a reset.
Quick Checks
Before diving into deeper fixes, start with the basics:
- Make sure you typed the website address correctly.
- Try visiting another website (like google.com). If that also fails, your internet connection is likely the problem.
- Test the same site on another device or network. If it loads elsewhere, the issue is with your device.
Step-by-Step Fixes
1. Flush DNS Cache
Your device keeps a small “memory” of website addresses. Clearing it can fix bad lookups.
Windows:
Open Command Prompt (Run as Administrator) and type:
ipconfig /flushdns
macOS:
Open Terminal and type:
sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
Restart your browser and try again.
2. Renew Your IP Address
Refreshing your IP lease can clear network errors.
Windows:
Open Command Prompt as admin and type:
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
netsh int ip set dns
netsh winsock reset
Restart your PC afterward.
macOS:
Go to System Settings → Network → Advanced → TCP/IP → Renew DHCP Lease.
3. Change DNS Servers
Switch to a faster, public DNS service.
Recommended options:
- Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
- Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
You can change DNS settings from your computer’s network settings or your router’s configuration page.
4. Clear Browser Cache
Old browser data can block connections.
In Chrome:
- Go to Settings → Privacy and Security → Clear Browsing Data.
- Select Cached images and files and Cookies.
- Clear data, then restart the browser.
You can also visit chrome://net-internals/#dns and click Clear host cache.
5. Disable VPN or Antivirus Temporarily
Turn off your VPN or antivirus for a short time and reload the site. If it works, add the site to the program’s exceptions or adjust its settings.
6. Restart Your Router and Modem
Unplug both devices, wait about a minute, plug them back in, and try again. This simple step often solves local DNS problems.
When the Problem Is with the Website
If you own or manage the site:
- Check if the domain is still active using a WHOIS or ICANN lookup.
- Confirm your A record points to the correct IP.
- Make sure nameservers match your hosting provider’s details.
- Wait up to 48 hours after DNS updates for changes to propagate.
Quick Fixes on Mobile
- Toggle Airplane Mode on and off.
- Forget and reconnect to your Wi-Fi.
- Change DNS manually:
- Android: Wi-Fi → Modify → Advanced → DNS 1 (8.8.8.8), DNS 2 (8.8.4.4)
- iPhone: Settings → Wi-Fi → (i) → Configure DNS → Manual → Add 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
When to Get Help
If the site fails on multiple devices and networks even after these steps:
- Contact your ISP to check for DNS or routing issues.
- If it’s your website, contact your hosting provider or domain registrar to review DNS and server settings.
Conclusion
The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error looks serious, but it usually comes down to a simple network or DNS hiccup. Most users fix it by flushing DNS, changing servers, or rebooting their router. Take it step by step—you’ll be back online in no time.
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