Google Chrome is the most popular and reliable internet browser at the present time. Most of the users choose it over other browsers for its clean, simple user interface and its unmatched web surfing experience.
But despite all its features, it’s still prone to errors. If you’re a regular Chrome user, I’m pretty sure you’ve run into DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN at least once if not always.
DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN is a common error among Chrome users that prevents them from accessing their desired website. This error hints at a Domain related issue and hinders the connection between your browser and the website.
The NXDOMAIN in DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN stands for Non Existent Domain meaning that the domain name is not registered or invalid. Users get one of the following error messages:
- This webpage is not available
DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN
- This site can’t be reached DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN
www.fixerrorcode.com’s server DNS address could not be found.
DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN
What Causes DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN?
DNS is responsible for matching the Internet Protocol (IP) address with the domain name. When the DNS identifies the IP address, your website will load without any issue.
But when the DNS fails to find the IP address, you’ll run into DNS errors like “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN”.
This commonly occurs due to DNS misconfiguration, Chrome’s cache data, or faulty internet settings in your computer. Incorrect entries in the host file can also lead to this issue.
How To Fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error?
Fixing this problem isn’t a big deal, you can do it without any expert’s help. However, you shouldn’t be hesitant to modify some settings.
Firstly, make sure that your internet connection is working and stable. There are numerous methods to fix this error.
Sometimes a certain method works and other times it doesn’t. The main thing is you have to keep trying until you fix it.
Make sure your browser is updated. Delete your browser’s cached files and cookies and follow these methods:
Troubleshoot Internet Connections
As you probably don’t know the cause behind this issue, first troubleshoot the internet connection by following these steps:
- Press windows + i key to open settings.
- Go to Update and Security
- On the left pane, go to Troubleshoot and navigate to Internet Connection
- Click on it and follow the on-screen instructions
This troubleshooting will likely find and fix the issue.
Flush the DNS
Flushing the DNS is the process of clearing out the DNS cache. Sometimes caches can get damaged due to technical glitches and viruses and can cause numerous DNS related issues so, try flushing the DNS by following these steps:-
- Press Windows + R key to an open Run dialogue box
- Type CMD in the dialogue box and press enter to open the Command Prompt on your screen
- Then type in ipconfig /release and press enter. This will release your current IP address
- Type in ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter. This will flush your DNS cache. If it worked, you’ll get “Successfully flushed the DNS resolver Cache”.
- Now type ipconfig /renew and hit Enter.
If you want to reset your IP settings and Winsock catalog too, type netsh int ip set dns and netsh winsock reset command and press enter.
Another way you can clear and renew your DNS is by simply disabling your network adapter and re-enabling it.
Change DNS Settings
Changing DNS is a simple and easy method that can help you fix the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN issue.
- Right-click on the Network present in your Taskbar and click on Open Network and Sharing Center.
- Click on Change Adapter Settings
- Right-click on your Network Connection and navigate to Properties.
- Tap on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click on Properties.
- Now select Use the following DNS server addresses option and enter 8.8.8.8 as Preferred DNS server and 8.8.4.4 as Alternate DNS server.
- Click the OK button when you’re done.
Restart your DNS Client Service
DNS Client service stores and controls information about domains. Restarting it can assist you correct DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN along with other DNS-related issues.
- Press Windows + R key to open Run dialogue box on your screen.
- In the box, type “services.msc” and press Enter.
- Go to DNS Client (press D on your keyboard to locate faster).
- Right-click on it and click Restart.
Reset All Features To Default
Users have reported that resetting their Chrome has also helped them fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN. Back up your data before resetting chrome. Follow these methods:
- Open Chrome.
- Type chrome://banners/ in the address bar and press enter.
- Click on “Reset all to Default” on the Right-hand side.
Now shut down Chrome and open your desired webpage and see if the error still exists.
Disable VPN and Antivirus Software
A lot of people use VPN software to protect their privacy and even though this can be extremely useful, this software can also lead to DNS-related issues.
Try temporarily disabling your VPN software and check if the issue exists.
Likewise, any antivirus software can lead to DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN problem too. You should try temporarily disabling them too.
If temporarily disabling them doesn’t fix the problems, try uninstalling them.