DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN: Causes and Fixes

Encountering the dns_probe_finished_nxdomain error means that people trying to access your site are being greeted with a message saying the domain cannot be found, a frustrating experience for website owners and users alike.

In this guide, we'll break down the error, discuss its causes, and provide easy-to-follow solutions for both the user-side and host-side.

What is DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN?

The dns_probe_finished_nxdomain error happens when the browser cannot resolve a domain name into an IP address during a DNS (Domain Name System) lookup. In simpler terms, when you try to access a website, your browser asks, "Where is this website located?" and the DNS system responds with, "I couldn't find it."

NXDOMAIN stands for "Non-Existent Domain," meaning that the domain you're trying to visit either doesn't exist or is currently unreachable. You'll typically encounter this error in browsers like Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge. This error prevents your browser from loading the website, resulting in a message that stops your browsing in its tracks.

What Causes the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error?

There are several potential causes of the dns_probe_finished_nxdomain error, and they can happen from either the user-side or the host-side.

User-Side Causes

1. Incorrect DNS Settings

DNS settings allow your computer to look up the correct IP address for the website you want to visit. If your device or router has misconfigured DNS settings, it can prevent domain name resolution.

2. Domain Name Errors

A simple typo in the URL, or trying to access an expired domain, can lead to this error. This can occur when the domain name is misspelled or when the website's domain has expired and is no longer active.

3. Internet Connection Issues

Weak or unstable internet connections can disrupt DNS queries, leading to failures in domain resolution. This might be the cause if the error only appears when you're on a slow or unreliable network.

4. Outdated Browser Cache or Cookies

Browsers store cached data and cookies to speed up website loading times. However, outdated or corrupted cache files can sometimes interfere with DNS lookups, triggering the dns_probe_finished_nxdomain error.

5. Firewall or Antivirus Settings

Overly strict security settings, such as those in firewalls or antivirus software, may block DNS traffic. In some cases, this can prevent your browser from successfully accessing websites.

6. Issues with ISP's DNS Servers

If your Internet Service Provider's (ISP) DNS servers are down, overloaded, or malfunctioning, this can cause domain resolution failures. This is a common issue, especially if the error persists across multiple devices.

Host-Side Causes

1. DNS Misconfiguration

Your DNS settings may not be properly configured in your domain registrar or hosting provider. For example, if your DNS records (like A records or CNAMEs) are missing or incorrect, your website won't be found.

2. Expired or Inactive Domain

If your domain registration has expired, the DNS cannot resolve it. Always keep track of domain renewal dates to avoid this issue.

3. Propagation Delays

When making DNS changes (like updating nameservers), it can take time for the changes to propagate worldwide. During this time, visitors may see the dns_probe_finished_nxdomain error.

4. Issues with DNS Servers

If your hosting provider's or Internet Service Provider's DNS servers are experiencing downtime or inefficiencies, it can prevent your site from being accessed.

5. Firewall or Security Settings

Overly restrictive settings in your hosting provider's firewall or security tools could block DNS traffic, resulting in this error.

How to Fix the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error

Here are some proven methods to resolve the dns_probe_finished_nxdomain error:

User-Side Fixes

1. Check the Domain Name

Start by checking if the URL you've typed is spelled correctly. A simple typo can lead to this error. Also, verify that the domain is active and configured correctly by using a domain checker tool.

2. Restart Your Router and Device

Power cycling your router and device can often clear up network-related issues:

• Router: Power off your router, wait 10 seconds, and then turn it back on.
• Device: Restart your computer or mobile device to refresh network connections.

3. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

Cached data and cookies can sometimes interfere with DNS lookups. Here's how to clear your cache and cookies in Google Chrome:

1. Go to Settings > Delete Browsing Data.
2. Select "Cookies and other site data" and "Cached images and files" before clicking "Delete Data."

4. Switch DNS Servers

Changing your DNS server to a reliable, well-known provider like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS can resolve the issue. Here's how to change your DNS settings:

Windows:

1. Open Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change Adapter Settings.
2. Right-click your network connection and choose Properties.
3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
4. Enter the preferred DNS server addresses:
   • Google: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
   • Cloudflare: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1

5. Flush DNS Cache

Flushing your device's DNS cache can resolve issues where old or corrupt DNS data is stored:

Windows: Open Command Prompt and run the command:

ipconfig /flushdns

macOS: Open Terminal and run the following commands:

sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

6. Disable VPN or Proxy

If you are using a VPN or proxy server, temporarily disable it to check if it's causing the DNS issue. Some VPNs and proxies can interfere with DNS resolution.

7. Check Firewall or Antivirus Settings

Make sure your firewall or antivirus software isn't blocking DNS traffic. If you're unsure, try temporarily disabling these programs to see if they are causing the issue.

8. Update or Reinstall Your Browser

An outdated browser version can sometimes cause errors like dns_probe_finished_nxdomain. Make sure your browser is up to date. If the issue persists, reinstalling the browser may help.

9. Release and Renew IP Address

Renewing a computer's IP address can help resolve connectivity issues by forcing the system to request a new IP from the network's DHCP server. Here's how you can do it on Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems:

On Windows

1. Open the Command Prompt
   • Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
   • Type cmd and press Enter.
2. Release the Current IP Address

In the Command Prompt, type the following command and press Enter:

ipconfig /release

This will disconnect your computer from the current IP address.

3. Renew the IP Address

After releasing, type the following command and press Enter:

ipconfig /renew

The system will request a new IP address from the network.

4. Verify the New IP Address

To confirm the new IP, type:

ipconfig

Look for the "IPv4 Address" under your network adapter.

On macOS

1. Open System Preferences
   • Click the Apple menu and select System Preferences.
2. Go to Network Settings
   • Select Network from the preferences menu.
3. Select Your Network
   • From the left sidebar, choose the network you're connected to (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
4. Renew the Lease
   • Click the Advanced button in the bottom-right corner.
   • Navigate to the TCP/IP tab.
   • Click the Renew DHCP Lease button.
5. Verify the New IP Address
   • Check the IP Address field in the TCP/IP tab to confirm the updated address.

On Linux

1. Open a Terminal
   • Use your system's shortcut (e.g., Ctrl + Alt + T for Ubuntu) to open the terminal.
2. Release the Current IP Address
   • Run the following command, which will release the current IP address:

sudo dhclient -r

3. Renew the IP Address

• After releasing, request a new IP by running:
  

sudo dhclient

4. Verify the New IP Address

• Use the following command to check the updated IP address:
  

ifconfig

Host-Side Fixes

1. Check Your Domain Status

Verify that your domain is active and not expired. Most domain registrars provide tools to check your domain status.

If your domain has expired, renew it as soon as possible to restore access.

2. Verify DNS Records

Log into your domain registrar or hosting provider account and check that all necessary DNS records (A, CNAME, MX, etc.) are correctly configured.

You can also use online tools like WhatsMyDNS or MXToolbox to check the DNS status of your domain globally. These tools can help identify missing or incorrect records.

3. Check Nameservers

If you've recently changed hosting providers, make sure to set nameservers to point your domain to the new host. Incorrect nameservers will prevent DNS resolution.

After making changes, remember that DNS propagation can take up to 24–48 hours.

Tips on Preventing the Error

Taking preventive measures can reduce the likelihood of encountering the dns_probe_finished_nxdomain error in the future. Here are a few tips:

User-Side Tips

Regularly Update Software and Firmware

Keep your browser, operating system, and router firmware up to date. Software updates often include important security patches and bug fixes that can help prevent DNS-related issues.

Use Reliable DNS Services

Consider using public DNS services like Google DNS or Cloudflare for better performance and reliability. These providers are known for their fast and secure DNS resolution.

Host-Side Tips

Monitor Domain Expiry and Configuration

If you're a website owner, use domain management tools to ensure that your domain name is active and correctly configured. Regularly check for domain expiry and make sure your DNS records are set up correctly.

Use DNS Management Tools

DNS monitoring tools can alert you to configuration issues or downtime. These tools help ensure your DNS records remain accurate and active.

Choose a Reliable Hosting Provider

Opt for a hosting provider with a strong track record for uptime and DNS reliability. Some providers offer managed DNS services for added peace of mind.

Keep Software and Security Up to Date

Update your website's software, CMS (like WordPress), and any security tools to ensure they work smoothly with DNS settings and prevent potential issues.

Final Thoughts

While the dns_probe_finished_nxdomain error can feel intimidating, it's often easy to resolve with the right troubleshooting steps. By checking your DNS settings, clearing your cache, and following the other solutions outlined above, you can fix this issue in no time.

Preventive measures, such as keeping your systems updated and using reliable DNS services, can also help reduce future occurrences of this error.

If you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with others who might be facing the same issue. And remember, if you ever need additional assistance with DNS-related problems, our support team is always here to help!