What Is the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error?
DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN is a big issue which doesn’t let users go inside any website. This error message appears due to system misconfiguration or problems with the DNS. DNS, or Domain Name System, is responsible for internet traffic, directing users and connecting domain names with real web servers. When you enter a URL in the web browser, the DNS works right away to connect and translate the URL to an address that computers understand: the IP address. This process is called the DNS name resolution.
No matter how frustrating the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error is, know that it’s pretty simple to get it resolved. Flushing your DNS cache, trying other DNS servers, disabling your antivirus, clearing browser cache, or renewing your IP can hopefully get you up and surfing the web in an instant.
How to Fix the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error
Flush the DNS
The trick is often done by flushing DNS cache, which essentially restarts the cached information of the domain.
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type cmd and with Ctrl + Shift pressed, press Enter. Run Command Prompt as an administrator and type the following in the prompt:
ipconfig /flushdns - You should get a confirmation message saying that DNS cache has been flushed.
Restart the DNS Service
Restarting the DNS service can refresh its processes and clear any temporary issues.
- Press Windows + R, type
services.msc, and hit Enter. - Locate DNS Client from the services list.
- Right-click on it and select Restart.
- After it restarts, try accessing the problem website again.
Check the URL You Have Entered
Check whether the URL you typed is correct. It is enough to forget or misspell just one character for DNS not to resolve the domain name. Check the spelling of the web address you entered in your browser. If it persists, then try accessing this site with another browser to rule out the fact that the problem does not lie within the URL itself.
Reset the HOSTS File
A faulty configuration in the HOSTS file may block a website. It is often helpful to perform a reset to its default state.
- Go to:
C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc - Find the HOSTS file and open it in Notepad.
- Delete any entries pertaining to the problem site, or save a new default copy.
- Close your browser, open it again, and try accessing your website.
Clear Unnecessary Browser Cache
The cache in your browser might be interfering with DNS errors. Try clearing these files.
- Open your browser and proceed to Settings.
- Among the available options, look for Clear Browsing Data or Privacy and Security.
- Select to clear cached files and cookies.
- Refresh and access the website to check whether it works.
Disable Your Antivirus and VPN Temporarily
Sometimes, these security programs interfere with DNS requests. Switch off your antivirus and VPN software temporarily. Access the website again. If it does, then check your security applications settings to make sure that it is not blocking the site.
Reset Your Browser’s Settings
Resetting the browser removes any misconfigurations that may lead to this error.
- Open your browser’s Settings.
- Scroll down and find Reset and Cleanup.
- Click Restore settings to their original defaults. Confirm it.
- Restart your browser and try to see if the error exists.
Restart Your Computer
When all else fails, restart can sometimes refresh your system and sort out temporary problems. Click Start > Power > Restart. After your PC reboots, check if DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN appears.
FAQs
1. What gives rise to DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error?
It might be due to incorrect DNS configuration, browser caching, or interference by antivirus or VPN programs.
2. Is this error also a result of the faulty HOSTS file?
Yes, the host file entries may be incorrect, and they block the DNS service from resolving certain domain names.
3. How do I reset my DNS service?
You are able to restart the DNS service using the utility services.msc on Windows.
4. Does browser cache cleaning remove the saved password?
No, it doesn’t touch the saved passwords, only temporary files and cookies.
5. Can antivirus software be disabled temporarily?
Yes, just for the purposes of troubleshooting, but you need to activate it again at later times.
