Quick Summary
The error 'DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN' in Chrome means that the Domain Name System (DNS) was unable to find the server address associated with the website domain you are trying to access. In simpler terms, Chrome can't find the website you're looking for because it can't translate the website name into an IP address.
Common Causes
- Incorrect Website Address: Typos in the website address (URL) are a frequent cause. Even a small mistake can prevent the DNS from resolving the address.
- DNS Server Issues: The DNS server you are using might be temporarily unavailable, experiencing problems, or misconfigured.
- Internet Connection Problems: A faulty or unstable internet connection can prevent your computer from reaching any DNS servers.
- Firewall or Antivirus Interference: Firewall or antivirus software could be blocking DNS requests or access to specific websites.
- Outdated or Incorrect DNS Cache: Your computer stores previously resolved DNS addresses in a cache. If this cache contains outdated or corrupt data, it can lead to resolution errors.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Check the Website Address
Step 1: Double-check the website address (URL) in the address bar. Make sure there are no typos or extra characters.
Step 2: If you typed the address manually, try copying and pasting it directly from a reliable source.
Method 2: Restart Your Router and Modem
Step 1: Unplug your modem and router from the power outlet.
Step 2: Wait for about 30 seconds.
Step 3: Plug the modem back in and wait for it to fully power on.
Step 4: Plug the router back in and wait for it to fully power on.
Step 5: Try accessing the website again.
Method 3: Flush the DNS Cache
Step 1: Open the Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux).
Step 2: Windows: Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
Step 2: macOS: Type sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder and press Enter. You'll need to enter your administrator password.
Step 2: Linux: The command may vary depending on your distribution (e.g., sudo systemd-resolve --flush-caches or sudo /etc/init.d/networking restart). Consult your distribution's documentation.
Step 3: Restart your browser and try accessing the website again.
Method 4: Change DNS Servers
Step 1: Go to your network adapter settings (e.g., in Windows, go to Control Panel -> Network and Internet -> Network and Sharing Center -> Change adapter settings).
Step 2: Right-click on your active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and select Properties.
Step 3: Select 'Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)' and click Properties.
Step 4: Select 'Use the following DNS server addresses'.
Step 5: Enter the following DNS server addresses: Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8 and Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4 (Google Public DNS). Alternatively, use Cloudflare's DNS: Preferred DNS server: 1.1.1.1 and Alternate DNS server: 1.0.0.1
Step 6: Click OK to save the changes.
Step 7: Restart your browser and try accessing the website again.
Method 5: Disable Antivirus and Firewall Temporarily
Step 1: Temporarily disable your antivirus and firewall software.
Step 2: Try accessing the website again. If the error is resolved, configure your antivirus or firewall to allow DNS traffic or access to the specific website.
Step 3: Re-enable your antivirus and firewall after testing.