Fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error: Complete Guide

Few things are more frustrating than trying to access a website only to be greeted by the cryptic “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error message. This technical-sounding error can leave even experienced users scratching their heads, wondering what went wrong and how to fix it.

The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error is one of the most common DNS-related issues that internet users encounter. It typically appears in Google Chrome, though similar errors can occur in other browsers. When this error strikes, it prevents you from accessing specific websites or, in some cases, browsing the internet entirely.

Understanding what causes this error and knowing how to resolve it can save you hours of frustration and get you back online quickly. Whether you’re a casual internet user or someone who relies on web access for work, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about diagnosing and fixing the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error.

Understanding the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error

To effectively troubleshoot this error, it helps to understand what’s happening behind the scenes. DNS stands for Domain Name System, which acts as the internet’s phone book. When you type a website address into your browser, your computer contacts a DNS server to translate that human-readable domain name into an IP address that computers can understand.

The “NXDOMAIN” part of the error message stands for “Non-Existent Domain.” This means that the DNS server couldn’t find an IP address associated with the domain name you’re trying to reach. Essentially, your browser is telling you that the website you’re looking for doesn’t exist—at least not according to the DNS server you’re using.

However, this doesn’t necessarily mean the website is actually down or non-existent. The error can occur for various reasons, many of which are fixable on your end.

Common Causes of DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN

Several factors can trigger this error, ranging from simple connectivity issues to more complex DNS configuration problems:

DNS Server Issues: Your current DNS server might be experiencing problems, maintenance, or may have outdated records for the website you’re trying to access.

Internet Connection Problems: A weak or unstable internet connection can prevent your computer from properly communicating with DNS servers.

Browser Cache and Cookies: Corrupted browser data can interfere with DNS lookups and cause this error to appear.

Firewall or Antivirus Interference: Security software sometimes blocks DNS requests or interferes with network connections.

Router Configuration Issues: Problems with your router’s DNS settings or firmware can prevent proper domain name resolution.

Network Configuration Problems: Incorrect network settings on your computer can disrupt the DNS lookup process.

Quick Solutions to Try First

Before diving into more complex troubleshooting steps, try these simple solutions that often resolve the issue quickly:

Refresh the Page: Sometimes the error is temporary. Try refreshing the page or waiting a few minutes before attempting to access the site again.

Check Your Internet Connection: Verify that you’re connected to the internet by trying to access a different website or running a speed test.

Try a Different Browser: Test whether the error occurs in other browsers like Firefox, Edge, or Safari. If the site works in another browser, the issue might be specific to your primary browser.

Restart Your Router: Unplug your router for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Wait for it to fully restart before testing your connection again.

Method 1: Flush Your DNS Cache

One of the most effective solutions for resolving DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN errors is flushing your DNS cache. Your computer stores DNS information locally to speed up future requests, but this cached data can become corrupted or outdated.

For Windows Users:

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog
2. Type “cmd” and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to run as administrator
3. In the command prompt, type: ipconfig /flushdns
4. Press Enter and wait for the confirmation message
5. Restart your browser and test the connection

For Mac Users:

1. Open Terminal (found in Applications > Utilities)
2. Type: sudo dscacheutil -flushcache
3. Press Enter and enter your password when prompted
4. Restart your browser

For Linux Users:

1. Open the terminal
2. Type: sudo systemctl restart systemd-resolved
3. Press Enter and provide your password

Method 2: Change Your DNS Servers

If flushing your DNS cache doesn’t work, switching to different DNS servers often resolves the issue. Many users find that public DNS servers like Google’s or Cloudflare’s are more reliable than their ISP’s default servers.

Changing DNS Servers on Windows:

1. Right-click the network icon in your system tray
2. Select “Open Network & Internet settings”
3. Click “Change adapter options”
4. Right-click your active connection and select “Properties”
5. Select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click “Properties”
6. Choose “Use the following DNS server addresses”
7. Enter primary DNS: 8.8.8.8 and secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4 (Google’s DNS)
8. Click OK and restart your computer

Changing DNS Servers on Mac:

1. Go to System Preferences > Network
2. Select your active connection and click “Advanced”
3. Go to the DNS tab
4. Click the “+” button and add 8.8.8.8
5. Add another entry for 8.8.4.4
6. Click OK and Apply

Alternative DNS Servers to Try:

• Cloudflare: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
• OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220
• Quad9: 9.9.9.9 and 149.112.112.112

Method 3: Clear Browser Data

Corrupted browser cache, cookies, and other stored data can interfere with DNS lookups and cause this error.

For Google Chrome:

1. Click the three dots menu > More tools > Clear browsing data
2. Select “All time” from the time range dropdown
3. Check all boxes: Browsing history, Cookies and site data, Cached images and files
4. Click “Clear data”
5. Restart Chrome

For Firefox:

1. Click the hamburger menu > History > Clear Recent History
2. Select “Everything” from the time range
3. Expand Details and check all boxes
4. Click “Clear Now”

For Safari:

1. Go to Safari > Preferences > Privacy
2. Click “Manage Website Data”
3. Click “Remove All”
4. Confirm by clicking “Remove Now”

Method 4: Disable Security Software Temporarily

Sometimes antivirus programs or firewalls can interfere with DNS requests. Temporarily disable these programs to see if they’re causing the issue.

Important Safety Note: Only disable security software temporarily for testing purposes, and remember to re-enable it immediately after troubleshooting.

Windows Defender:

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security
2. Click “Virus & threat protection”
3. Under “Virus & threat protection settings,” click “Manage settings”
4. Turn off “Real-time protection” temporarily
5. Test your connection, then turn protection back on

Third-party Antivirus: Look for a “Disable” or “Pause Protection” option in your antivirus software’s system tray icon or main interface.

Method 5: Reset Network Settings

If other methods haven’t worked, resetting your network settings can resolve deeper configuration issues.

Windows Network Reset:

1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status
2. Scroll down and click “Network reset”
3. Click “Reset now” and confirm
4. Your computer will restart automatically
5. Reconnect to your network after restart

Mac Network Reset:

1. Go to System Preferences > Network
2. Select your connection and click the minus (-) button to remove it
3. Click Apply
4. Click the plus (+) button to add the connection back
5. Reconfigure your network settings

Method 6: Update Network Drivers

Outdated or corrupted network drivers can cause various connectivity issues, including DNS errors.

Windows Driver Update:

1. Right-click “This PC” and select “Manage”
2. Click “Device Manager”
3. Expand “Network adapters”
4. Right-click your network adapter and select “Update driver”
5. Choose “Search automatically for drivers”
6. Restart your computer if prompted

Automatic Driver Update Tools: Consider using Windows Update or manufacturer-specific software to ensure you have the latest drivers.

Method 7: Check Router Settings

Sometimes the issue lies with your router’s configuration rather than your computer.

Router DNS Settings:

1. Open a web browser and enter your router’s IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1)
2. Log in with your administrator credentials
3. Look for DNS or Internet settings
4. Change DNS servers to 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
5. Save settings and restart your router

Router Firmware Update: Check your router manufacturer’s website for firmware updates, as outdated firmware can cause various connectivity issues.

Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques

If basic methods haven’t resolved the issue, try these advanced techniques:

Use Command Line DNS Tools: Windows users can use nslookup or ping commands to test DNS resolution for specific domains.

Check for Malware: Run a full system scan with your antivirus software or a dedicated malware removal tool like Malwarebytes.

Examine Hosts File: Ensure your computer’s hosts file hasn’t been modified to block specific websites. The hosts file is located at C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts on Windows.

Test Different Networks: Try connecting to a different network (mobile hotspot, different WiFi network) to determine if the issue is network-specific.

When to Contact Your ISP

If you’ve tried all the above methods and still encounter the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error, it might be time to contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP). They can check for:

• DNS server outages or maintenance
• Issues with your internet connection
• Problems with their DNS configuration
• Account-specific restrictions or blocks

Prevention Tips

To minimize the chances of encountering this error in the future:

Use Reliable DNS Servers: Consider permanently switching to public DNS servers like Google’s or Cloudflare’s for better reliability.

Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system, browser, and network drivers.

Regular Maintenance: Periodically clear your browser cache and flush your DNS cache to prevent data corruption.

Monitor Network Performance: Keep an eye on your internet connection’s stability and speed.

Getting Back Online Successfully

The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error can be frustrating, but it’s usually fixable with the right approach. Start with the simplest solutions like refreshing the page and checking your connection, then work your way through more advanced troubleshooting methods.

Most users find success with flushing their DNS cache or changing their DNS servers. These solutions address the most common causes of the error and can get you back online quickly. Remember to restart your browser and computer after making changes to ensure they take effect properly.

If you continue experiencing issues after trying these methods, don’t hesitate to reach out to technical support or your ISP for additional assistance. Sometimes the problem lies beyond your local network and requires professional intervention.