Resolving the “dns_probe_finished_nxdomain” DNS Error: A Step-by-Step Guide

When browsing the internet, few things are more frustrating than running into unexpected errors. One such error that users might encounter when trying to access a website is the dns_probe_finished_nxdomain error. This error typically means that the domain name system (DNS) couldn’t find the IP address for a particular domain, making it inaccessible.

But fear not! There are several solutions you can try to resolve this issue. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most effective ones.

What Causes the “dns_probe_finished_nxdomain” Error?

Before diving into the solutions, it’s important to understand the root of the issue. This error occurs when the DNS fails to resolve the domain name into an IP address. This can be due to various reasons such as:

• Incorrect DNS settings
• Issues with the DNS server being used
• Local cache problems

Solutions to Fix the Error:

1. Restart Your Router

Sometimes, simply rebooting your router can fix this error. Restarting can help in clearing out minor glitches or network configurations that might be causing the issue.

Steps:

• Turn off the router.
• Wait for about 10 seconds.
• Turn it back on and wait for it to fully reboot.

Now, try accessing the website again.

2. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

Cached data in your browser can sometimes lead to conflicts or outdated responses.

Steps:

• Open your browser settings.
• Navigate to the history or cache settings.
• Choose to clear browsing data and ensure that cached images and files, as well as cookies, are selected.
• Restart your browser and try accessing the website.

3. Flush and Renew DNS

Flushing your system’s DNS cache can help in resolving the error.

Steps for Windows:

• Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
• Type cmd and press Enter to open Command Prompt.
• Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.

Steps for macOS:

• Open Terminal.
• Type sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder and press Enter.

4. Change Your DNS Server

Switching to a different DNS server, like Google’s public DNS, might help.

Steps for Windows:

• Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center.
• Click on Change adapter settings.
• Right-click your active connection, choose Properties.
• Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
• Choose Use the following DNS server addresses:
  • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
  • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
• Click OK and then Close.

Steps for macOS:

• Go to System Preferences > Network.
• Click on your active connection and then Advanced.
• Go to the DNS tab and add:
  • 8.8.8.8
  • 8.8.4.4
• Click OK and then Apply.

5. Check Your Hosts File

The hosts file in your system might have some entries that block specific domains. Ensure that the website you’re trying to access isn’t listed there.

Steps for Windows:

• Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc.
• Open the hosts file with Notepad.
• Check for any entries related to the problematic domain and remove them.

Steps for macOS:

• Open Terminal.
• Type sudo nano /etc/hosts and press Enter.
• Check for any entries related to the problematic domain and remove them.
• Press Control + O to save and Control + X to exit.

Conclusion

The dns_probe_finished_nxdomain error is a common DNS-related issue that users can encounter. However, with the steps provided above, you should be able to quickly and effectively resolve the problem. If all else fails, it might be a good idea to contact your ISP or the website’s administrator for further assistance.