DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN: What It Is and How to Quickly Fix the Problem

Key highlights

• DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN occurs when a browser cannot find a website’s IP address.
• This error typically indicates DNS resolution issues between your browser and DNS server.
• Common causes include incorrect DNS settings, malware interference or corrupted cache.
• It can happen across browsers like Chrome, Firefox and Safari, causing disruptions in browsing.
• Quick fixes include clearing cache, checking DNS settings or switching to a different DNS server.

Introduction

Are you frustrated by the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error while browsing? 

If you’ve ever encountered the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error, you know how annoying it can be. It prevents you from accessing websites and disrupts your online experience. But what exactly does it mean and how can you fix it quickly? Let’s break it down in simple terms. 

This error message typically pops up when your browser fails to connect to a website, and it can be a real roadblock for anyone trying to surf the internet. But don’t worry – this error is often easy to fix if you know where to look. The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error is a DNS error that typically occurs when your browser is unable to resolve a domain name to an IP address. The error message usually appears as: 

“This site can’t be reached. The server IP address could not be found. DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN.”

The issue could stem from several sources, including incorrect DNS server settings, outdated DNS cache or problems with your Internet connection. Understanding how the Domain Name System (DNS) works and knowing how to fix common DNS issues can save you time and frustration. 

In this article, we’ll cover: 

• Basic and advanced solutions to fix the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error 
• How to prevent future occurrences 
• A clear guide for resolving the error efficiently 

Let’s dive into what’s going wrong when you encounter this error and how you can fix it in a snap! 

What is DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error?

DNS or Domain Name System is responsible for translating website names into IP addresses that computers can understand. When you encounter the “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error message, it means that your computer was unable to find the IP address associated with the website you were trying to visit.  

The Domain Name System (DNS) plays a critical role in making this connection and when something goes wrong, you might see this error message instead of your usual website.  

The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error is essentially a problem with your internet connection. It occurs when your browser fails to resolve the domain name you’re trying to visit. To understand this, let’s break down the Domain Name System (DNS). 

Imagine the Domain Name System (DNS) as a phone book for the internet. Just as you search a phone book to find a phone number by a person’s name, your browser uses DNS to find a website’s IP address when you type in its domain name. DNS translates website names [example].com into IP addresses (like 192.0.2.1). This allows your browser to find the correct location of a website. The DNS server helps with this process by mapping domain names to their respective IP addresses.  

The NXDOMAIN part stands for “Non-Existent Domain,” which means that the domain you’re trying to access can’t be found. There are several reasons this might happen. Sometimes it’s as simple as a typo in the website address, but more often, it’s related to issues with your DNS settings, browser or network connection. 

When you see the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error, it means the browser couldn’t find the website’s IP address because something went wrong in the DNS resolution process.  

This error can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as: 

• DNS server issues 
• Incorrect DNS configuration 
• Network connectivity issues 
• Malware/virus infections 

For example, if you try to visit a website like [example].com, your browser queries a DNS server to find the IP address linked to that domain. If the server fails to provide the correct IP address, you get the “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error instead of the site loading. 

Why is understanding the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error message important?

Understanding the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error message is important because it helps you troubleshoot and fix the problem quickly, ensuring that you can access the website you need to visit. Ignoring the error message could lead to frustration and wasted time trying to access a website that won’t load.

By understanding the possible causes of the “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error and how to fix them, you can avoid the problem altogether or quickly resolve it when it occurs.

Where might you see the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error?

You’ll know you’re impacted by the “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error when you try to visit a website, but it fails to load and you receive a message that says, “This site can’t be reached” or “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN.”

This error can show up in various browsers and on different platforms. Let’s take a look at some of the common scenarios where you might run into it.

Browser-specific mentions 

The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error can occur in various browsers, each showing it in different ways. Here’s how it looks in popular browsers: 

• Google Chrome: It’s the most common browser where users encounter DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error. When you try to load a page and see “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” instead, Chrome is unable to resolve the domain name due to DNS issues. For example, trying to visit [example].com may result in this message instead of the webpage. 
• Mozilla Firefox: In Firefox, users might see the “The server could not be found” error along with the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN message. This error is typically caused by a DNS configuration problem on your device or a server issue. 
• Microsoft Edge: Similar to Chrome, Edge users may see the “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error when attempting to access websites. Edge, being Chromium-based, shares many of the same underlying issues as Chrome, including DNS-related problems. 
• Safari: Safari on Mac devices may show a “Cannot open page” message when the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error occurs. This can happen after changes to DNS settings or when the DNS client service fails to properly fetch domain information. 

Affected devices 

While this error is most commonly seen on desktop browsers, mobile devices aren’t immune to it either. 

• Windows devices: On Windows PCs, this error is most often triggered by incorrect DNS settings. For instance, if your DNS client is pointing to a non-functional or misconfigured DNS server, you’ll get the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN message. An example would be when trying to access a page like [example].com, but the page doesn’t load. 
• Mac devices: The error on Mac devices typically happens when there’s a conflict with the DNS settings. In one instance, a Mac user experienced this error when the DNS client was set to use outdated DNS server addresses, preventing the browser from resolving domains. 
• Mobile devices: DNS issues can also trigger this error on mobile devices, such as Android or iPhone. For example, if you’re using a custom DNS server or your mobile data connection is weak, the browser might not be able to resolve the domain name. 

It’s possible that the error is caused by a temporary issue with the website or your internet connection, in which case the problem may resolve itself after a few minutes. However, if the error persists, it’s important to troubleshoot and fix the underlying issue to ensure you can access the websites you need. 

What causes DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error? 

There are several possible causes for this error and understanding them can help you troubleshoot effectively: 

DNS server issues 

Sometimes the DNS server you’re using is down or malfunctioning. If it can’t respond with the correct IP address, you’ll encounter an error. For instance, if your ISP’s DNS server is facing an outage, all websites you try to visit could throw this error. 

Incorrect DNS configuration 

If you’ve manually configured your DNS settings but made a mistake in the process, your browser won’t be able to resolve domain names. This could happen if you accidentally type in the wrong DNS server address or if it’s incompatible with your system. 

Corrupted DNS cache 

Your browser stores DNS records to speed up future visits to websites. However, this cache can sometimes become corrupted, causing issues when trying to load websites. A corrupted cache could lead to the browser not finding the correct IP address. 

Browser-related issues 

Certain browser configurations, such as extensions or corrupted cookies, can interfere with DNS resolution. If your browser’s data has become too cluttered or one of your extensions is causing a conflict, you might see the error when trying to visit a website. 

Network connectivity problems 

If your internet connection is unstable or there’s an issue with your router, DNS requests may fail. Problems with your local network can prevent your device from connecting to the DNS server properly, triggering this error. 

Malware or antivirus interference 

Some malwares or overly aggressive antivirus software can interfere with DNS settings. These programs might block DNS requests or alter your DNS settings to redirect you to malicious sites, resulting in this error. 

How to fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error

The “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error usually points to issues with your DNS settings or the DNS server you’re connected to. When you try to visit a website, your browser sends a request to a DNS server to find the website’s IP address. If the DNS server can’t resolve the domain name, it shows this error message.

To resolve the error, there are both basic and advanced troubleshooting methods you can try. Let’s go through each of these solutions.

Basic troubleshooting steps to fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error

When you encounter the “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error, there are a few basic troubleshooting steps you can try before moving on to more advanced solutions.

Check your internet connection

First, ensure that your internet connection is working properly. If your connection is unstable or not connected at all, the DNS server won’t be able to resolve any domain names.

The first step is to restart your router and modem, as this can sometimes resolve temporary internet connectivity issues. Simply unplug both devices from the power source, wait a few seconds and then plug them back in. To check your connection:

• Ensure your device is connected to a network.
• Test other websites to see if the issue is widespread.
• Restart your modem or router.

Clearing the browser cache and cookies

The second step is to clear your browser’s cache and cookies, which can help fix any temporary issues with your browser. To do this, go to your browser settings, find the option to clear your cache and cookies and select the appropriate options.

Change your DNS server addresses

The preferred DNS server provided by your internet service provider (ISP) might not always be reliable. You can manually change the DNS server addresses to those of a more reliable service, like Google DNS or OpenDNS. Here’s how to change your DNS server settings to a public DNS server like Google DNS or OpenDNS:

• Open your Control Panel and go to Network and Sharing Center.
• Click on Change adapter settings.
• Right-click your network connection and select Properties.
• Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
• Set the DNS server addresses to:

8.8.8.8

Preferred DNS server (Google DNS)

8.8.4.4

Alternate DNS server (Google DNS)

Alternatively, you can use OpenDNS or another trusted DNS server.

Flushing the DNS cache

Sometimes, an outdated or corrupted DNS cache can trigger the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error. Flushing the cache can help your system get fresh DNS information. Here’s how to do it:

• Open Command Prompt on your Windows device.
• Type –

ipconfig /flushdns 

• You should see a message confirming that the DNS cache has been successfully flushed.

This step clears out any saved DNS entries that might be causing the problem.

Restart your browser

In some cases, the error might be specific to the browser you’re using. Close your browser completely, then restart it. If you’re using Google Chrome, you can try opening it in incognito mode to see if the error persists.

Disable your antivirus software temporarily

Some antivirus software may interfere with your network connection or DNS queries. Disable your antivirus temporarily to check if it’s causing the error. If the error disappears when the antivirus is off, you might need to adjust the software’s settings.

These basic troubleshooting steps can often help resolve the “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error, but if the error persists, you may need to try more advanced solutions.

Advanced troubleshooting steps to fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error

If the basic troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error, there are some advanced troubleshooting steps you can try.

Reset your DNS settings

• Resetting the DNS client settings can help if there’s a deeper configuration issue. Here’s how to reset them – Open Command Prompt as an administrator then type:

netsh winsock reset

• After it completes, type:

netsh int ip reset

• Restart your computer. 

Checking the router configuration

The second step is to check your router configuration to ensure that it’s not blocking any DNS requests. To do this, log in to your router’s settings, find the option to check the DNS settings and ensure that DNS requests are allowed.

Updating or reinstalling network drivers

The third step is to update or reinstall your network drivers, as outdated or corrupted drivers can sometimes cause DNS errors. Outdated or corrupted network drivers can also interfere with your DNS settings. To update your drivers:

• Open Device Manager.
• Expand Network adapters, right-click on your network device and select Update driver.
• Follow the prompts to install the latest driver.

Check for malware

Malware can sometimes modify your DNS settings, leading to errors like

DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN

Run a full system scan using your antivirus software to ensure your system is clean.

Edit the local hosts file

Your local hosts file can sometimes override DNS settings and block certain websites. To ensure this isn’t the cause:

• Go to:

C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts

• Open the file using Notepad with administrator privileges.
• Look for any entries that might be blocking access to certain websites and remove them.

These advanced troubleshooting steps can often help resolve the “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error, but if the error persists, you may need to seek professional help or contact your internet service provider.

How to prevent future DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error?

To avoid encountering the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error in the future, it’s important to take proactive steps. It is important to ensure your DNS client service and DNS settings are configured correctly. Here are some key strategies to help prevent this issue: 

• Clear your DNS cache regularly: Over time, your DNS cache can build up with outdated entries that may cause errors. Flushing the cache on a regular basis can prevent DNS probe issues. You can clear the cache easily using Windows Command Prompt or through the browser settings (e.g., Google Chrome browser or Mozilla Firefox). 
• Use a reliable DNS server: Set your device to use a preferred DNS server or an alternate DNS server like Google DNS or OpenDNS. These servers are generally faster and more reliable than your Internet Service Provider’s (ISP) default servers, reducing the chances of encountering a DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error. 
• Check the DNS server address: Ensure that the DNS server addresses in your network settings are correct. An incorrect DNS server address can prevent your device from resolving domain names correctly. 
• Ensure correct IP address configuration: Make sure your IP address is correctly set. You can manually configure the IP addresses in the network settings or use DHCP to automatically obtain an IP address. This is crucial for maintaining a stable internet connection. 
• Review your local host’s file: The local host’s file can override DNS settings, causing issues with DNS resolution. Make sure that the file doesn’t contain incorrect or outdated entries that could interfere with accessing websites. 
• Disable VPN or proxy services: Sometimes, a VPN or proxy server can cause DNS issues by misdirecting traffic or blocking access to certain domain names. Disabling the VPN or proxy service might resolve the problem. 
• Update your antivirus software: Certain antivirus software can block DNS requests, leading to the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error. Check your antivirus settings and ensure that it’s not interfering with the DNS service. 
• Reset Chrome Flags: If you encounter an error in Google Chrome, try resetting the Chrome flags. Some experimental features in Chrome might conflict with your DNS settings. You can reset them by navigating to the chrome://flags page and selecting “Reset all to default.” 
• Check your network settings: In Windows or Mac, go to the Network and Sharing Center or System Preferences and make sure that your network adapter settings are properly configured. Ensure that DNS client and network settings are correctly aligned with the required settings for your internet connection. 
• Change DNS settings on your router: Sometimes, the issue can stem from your internet router. Access your router’s configuration page and ensure that the DNS server addresses are correctly set. Using a public DNS like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS can improve your overall internet experience. 
• Use Internet Protocol version 4 (IPv4): If your Internet Protocol version is set to IPv6, switch to IPv4, as it’s more commonly supported and may help prevent DNS resolution issues. 

By following these steps, you can reduce the risk of encountering the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error in the future. If the issue persists, contacting your ISP’s support team for further assistance might be necessary to ensure that your DNS settings are correctly configured. 

Final thoughts

The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error is an annoying issue, but it’s usually solvable with a few simple troubleshooting steps. Whether it’s a problem with your DNS server addresses, an outdated DNS cache or incorrect DNS settings, addressing the root cause will often resolve the error and get you back online quickly. It’s also essential to consider factors like internet connection stability, local hosts file configurations and even ensuring your DNS client service is running correctly. 

In some cases, switching to a more reliable alternate DNS server like Google DNS or Public DNS may also help speed things up and prevent future errors. With a bit of patience and the right steps, you can ensure that your browsing experience is smooth and uninterrupted. 

Key takeaways to keep in mind: 

• Always check your internet connection first — a weak or unstable connection is often the root cause of the issue. 
• Regularly flush your DNS cache to ensure you’re accessing the latest DNS information for websites. 
• Verify your DNS settings and consider using a more reliable preferred DNS server like Google DNS for faster browsing. 
• Make sure your DNS client service is configured and running correctly to prevent network errors. 
• Keep your local hosts file and internet protocol version settings correctly configured to avoid non-existent domain errors. 

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