How do I fix the “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error?

[WilfredoSk]

I keep getting the “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error when trying to visit websites. What usually causes this, and what are the easiest ways to troubleshoot and fix it?

 

[ArthurMex]

The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error means your browser can’t find the website’s DNS address. Fix it by restarting your router, clearing browser cache, flushing DNS with ipconfig /flushdns, changing DNS to 8.8.8.8 / 1.1.1.1, disabling VPN or proxy, and resetting network settings. These steps usually restore proper DNS resolution.

 

[Pedro]

This error is normally your device not being able to locate the address of the website and usually is fixable by either flushing your DNS cache, resetting your router or changing your DNS to something like Google DNS which is for sure. Sometimes a VPN, firewall or antivirus can block the connection therefore turning those off would help diagnose the issue for a while. If nothing is working it could be a problem with your ISP or it could be a problem with the website itself.

 

[Vecna]

To fix the “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN” error:

1. Restart your router to refresh your connection.
2. Clear your DNS cache:
   
   • On Windows, open Command Prompt and run: ipconfig /flushdns
   • On Mac, run: sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
3. Change DNS servers to public ones like Google DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1).
4. Check your network settings to ensure the domain is entered correctly.
5. Disable VPN or firewall temporarily to see if they’re causing the issue.