DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Fix: Step by Step
If you’re seeing “dns_probe_finished_nxdomain” you’re not alone. This DNS issue can stop you from accessing websites and leave you scratching your head. In this guide we’ll cover what it means, why it happens and how to fix it on Windows, Mac, Android and iOS.
What is DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN?
DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN is an error that means the Domain Name System (DNS) can’t find the IP address of a domain, usually because the DNS server can’t find it or it’s misconfigured.
What causes DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN?
1. DNS settings: If your DNS settings are incorrect, your device can’t resolve domains properly.
2. Network or firewall: Security software or firewall settings can block DNS requests.
3. Browser cache and cookies: Corrupted browser data can block DNS requests.
4. Outdated IP address records: If the IP records for a website are outdated or invalid this error will appear.
DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Fixes
Here are multiple ways to fix dns_probe_finished_nxdomain:
1. Clear Your Browser Cache and Cookies
Browser cache and cookies can sometimes prevent the DNS from resolving the domain properly.
How to Clear Cache and Cookies
- Chrome: Go to Settings > Privacy and security > Clear browsing data. Select “Cookies and other site data” and “Cached images and files,” then click “Clear data.”
- Firefox: Go to Options > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data > Clear Data.
2. Restart Your Router
A simple router reboot can often fix DNS issues and refresh your connection to the ISP’s DNS servers.
3. Flush DNS Cache
Flushing your DNS cache is a quick fix for this error as it removes old DNS records that may be causing conflicts.
How to Flush DNS Cache
– Windows: Open Command Prompt and type:
ipconfig /flushdns
Mac: Open Terminal and type:
“`bash
sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
“`
4. Change Your DNS Server
If the issue persists try changing your DNS server to a public DNS like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS.
How to Change DNS Servers
Windows: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Change adapter options. Right-click your network, select Properties, choose Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and enter a new DNS (e.g. Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4).
Mac: Go to System Preferences > Network > Advanced > DNS and add new DNS addresses like 8.8.8.8 or 1.1.1.1.
5. Disable VPN or Antivirus Software Temporarily
VPNs or antivirus software can sometimes interfere with DNS settings. Try disabling them and see if the issue resolves.
6. Reset Chrome Flags (for Chrome users)
Some experimental flags in Chrome can cause this error.
How to Reset Chrome Flags
Type chrome://flags in the address bar.
Click Reset all.
DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN on Mobile Devices
For Android and iOS devices, same principles apply. You may need to clear browsing data or switch to a different DNS.
Android
1. Go to Settings > Connections > Wi-Fi, long press on your connected network and select Modify network.
2. Change DNS settings manually (e.g. Google DNS 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4).
iOS
1. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi, tap on the connected network and select Configure DNS.
2. Set DNS to Manual and add new entries (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 for Google DNS).
How to Prevent DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN in the Future
Clearing your DNS cache regularly, using public DNS servers and keeping your browser up-to-date can help prevent DNS issues.
The dns_probe_finished_nxdomain error is annoying but with these steps you can fix it on any device.
Follow this guide and you should be able to find the problem and get back online in no time.