Fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN: DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN (Internet)

The “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error is a common issue encountered when browsing the internet. It signifies that your computer or device was unable to resolve the domain name you tried to access to an IP address. In simpler terms, your system couldn’t find the “address” of the website you were trying to reach on the internet.

🧐 Causes

This error can stem from several sources:

• Incorrect Website Address: You might have mistyped the URL.
• DNS Server Issues: The Domain Name System (DNS) servers your device is configured to use might be down, overloaded, or experiencing connectivity problems.
• Router/Modem Problems: Your home or office network equipment might be having issues.
• Local DNS Cache Corruption: Your device stores a cache of previously resolved domain names. If this cache becomes corrupted, it can lead to this error.
• Firewall or Antivirus Interference: Sometimes, security software can mistakenly block DNS requests.
• ISP DNS Problems: Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) might be experiencing issues with their DNS servers.
• Malware or Virus: In rare cases, malware can interfere with your network settings, including DNS.

🔧 Fixes

Here’s a step-by-step guide to resolve the “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error:

• Verify the Website Address: Double-check the URL you’ve entered for any typos. Try accessing the website from a different browser or device to rule out browser-specific issues.
• Restart Your Router and Modem: Unplug both your modem and router from the power outlet. Wait for about 30 seconds, then plug the modem back in first. Once the modem is fully powered on, plug in your router. Wait a few minutes for your network to re-establish connectivity.
• Flush Your DNS Cache:
  • Windows: Open Command Prompt as an administrator. Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
  • macOS: Open Terminal. Type sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder and press Enter. You’ll be prompted for your password.
  • Linux: The command varies by distribution, but common commands include sudo systemd-resolve --flush-caches or sudo /etc/init.d/nscd restart.
• Change Your DNS Servers: You can temporarily switch to public DNS servers like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS.
  • Google DNS: Primary: 8.8.8.8, Secondary: 8.8.4.4
  • Cloudflare DNS: Primary: 1.1.1.1, Secondary: 1.0.0.1

  You can change these settings in your network adapter properties (Windows) or Network Preferences (macOS).

• Disable VPN or Proxy: If you’re using a VPN or proxy server, try temporarily disabling it to see if it resolves the issue.
• Check Firewall and Antivirus: Temporarily disable your firewall and antivirus software to see if they are causing the problem. Remember to re-enable them afterward.
• Reset TCP/IP Stack and Winsock:
  • Open Command Prompt as an administrator on Windows.
  • Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
  • netsh winsock reset
  • netsh int ip reset
  • Restart your computer after executing these commands.
• Contact Your ISP: If none of the above steps work, there might be an issue with your ISP’s network or DNS servers. Contact their support for assistance.