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How to Fix the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error

Learn simple solutions to resolve the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error, which prevents websites from loading due to domain name resolution issues. This guide includes steps like checking your internet connection, flushing the DNS cache, modifying DNS servers, and troubleshooting common configurations.

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Key Takeaways

• The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error means that your system is unable to resolve the domain name into its corresponding IP address, which often prevents you from accessing websites.
• Causes can include issues with your internet settings, the DNS cache, DNS server errors, firewall or antivirus software blocking connections, or even incorrect browser configurations.
• Solutions involve steps such as flushing the DNS cache, changing DNS servers, resetting network settings, and eliminating malwares.
• Follow this guide step-by-step to systematically diagnose and resolve the DNS issue.

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A Step-by-Step Guide to Fix the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error

Below is a detailed guide, using expert advice, to help you fix the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN problem, ensuring your internet browsing is back on track.

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1. Check Your Internet Connection

Before diving into technical adjustments:

• Ensure your internet connection is stable and working properly.
• Restart your router/modem:
  1. Unplug your router from the power socket.
  2. Wait for 30–60 seconds.
  3. Plug it back in and wait for it to restart completely.

Pro Tip: I’ve found that 80% of DNS issues can often be resolved with a quick router reboot.

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2. Disable VPN and Antivirus Software

Some VPNs or antivirus programs may affect DNS settings, leading to the NXDOMAIN error.

Disable VPN

• Temporarily turn off your VPN (like NordVPN) and check whether the issue resolves.

Disable Antivirus

• Pause your antivirus software briefly (e.g., Norton Antivirus, Malwarebytes, etc.) and retest the connection. Tools like Malwarebytes can help ensure your system’s security if you’re unsure about disabling antivirus.

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3. Flush DNS Cache

Benefits

Flushing the DNS cache forces the computer to fetch fresh DNS records instead of relying on outdated or corrupted entries.

Here’s How to Do It:

Windows

1. Open Command Prompt as an Administrator.
2. Run these commands in order:

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

3. Restart your computer.

Mac

1. Open Terminal.
2. Execute the following command:

   sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder; sleep 2;
   

3. Enter your Mac’s password and press Enter.

Clear Chrome’s Internal DNS Cache

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

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4. Change DNS Servers

Changing your DNS server to a public option like Google DNS or Cloudflare can resolve errors due to misconfigured ISP-provided servers.

Use Google’s DNS

Steps for Windows:

1. Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center.
2. Right-click your active connection > Properties.
3. Highlight Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) > Properties.
4. Select Use the following DNS server addresses:
   • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
   • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
5. Apply changes and restart your PC.

Steps for Mac:

1. Go to System Preferences > Network.
2. Select your active connection and click on Advanced.
3. Navigate to the DNS tab:
   • Click the + button and input 8.8.8.8.
   • Add another entry: 8.8.4.4.
4. Click OK, then Apply.

For added privacy, you may also consider using a VPN like NordVPN that offers private DNS servers: Get NordVPN here.

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5. Restart DNS Client Service

If your DNS configuration files are in conflict, restarting the local DNS Client can help.

For Windows

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Scroll to DNS Client, right-click, and choose Restart.

Expert Note: Some enterprise setups may disable DNS Client Service. Confirm this with your system administrator if you’re in a corporate environment.

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6. Check Your Hosts File

Modifications to the hosts file might block certain websites.

Windows

1. Open notepad as Administrator.
2. Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc.
3. Open the hosts file.
4. Search for entries blocking specific sites (e.g., 127.0.0.1 example.com).
5. Remove the associated line, save, and close.

Mac

1. In Terminal, type:

   sudo nano /etc/hosts
   

2. Remove any conflicting entries, save (CTRL + O), and exit (CTRL + X).

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7. Reset Chrome Flags

Experimental Chrome features might disrupt DNS. Reset Chrome flags to their defaults:

1. Enter chrome://flags in Chrome’s search bar.
2. Click Reset All.

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8. Scan for Malware or Viruses

Malware can interfere with your network settings, causing DNS errors. Use a reliable antivirus tool to check for threats. Options like Malwarebytes can efficiently detect and clean infected systems.

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9. Factory Reset Your Router

If none of the above works:

1. Log into your router using its IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.1).
2. Go to the Administration or Reset section.
3. Select Factory Reset.

Pro Tip: If you’re uncomfortable resetting your router configuration, save your settings beforehand.

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Bonus Expert Tips

Avoid Frequent DNS Errors

• Use reputable VPNs like NordVPN that manage DNS configurations seamlessly.
• Regularly update your browser and system software.
• Back up your network settings using tools like EaseUS Todo PCTrans for swift recovery.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error?

This error occurs when your computer fails to resolve a domain name into an IP address, preventing access to a specific website.

Q2: Why does the error keep happening?

Common causes include outdated DNS records, issues with antivirus or VPNs, DNS server downtime, or malware.

Q3: Can I fix this error permanently?

Yes, using a reliable DNS server like Google DNS or tools like NordVPN can offer consistent DNS performance and privacy.

Q4: Are free DNS servers as good as paid ones?

Free DNS servers like Google DNS are reliable for most tasks. Paid solutions like those integrated into premium VPNs can add additional layers of security and speed.

Q5: What are some fast DNS servers I can use?

• Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
• Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
• OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220

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Now that you have this comprehensive guide, getting rid of the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error should be a breeze!