Blog Menu

I write and curate content for Bluehost. I hope this blog post is helpful.
Are you looking at creating a blog, website or an online store? Bluehost has something for everyone. Get started today.

DNS, or Domain Name System, is responsible for translating website names into IP addresses that computers can understand. When you encounter the “dns_probe_finished_nxdomain” error message, it means that your computer was unable to find the IP address associated with the website you were trying to visit.

This error can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as:

  • DNS server issues
  • Incorrect DNS configuration
  • Network connectivity issues
  • Malware/virus infections

Understanding the dns_probe_finished_nxdomain error message is important because it helps you troubleshoot and fix the problem quickly, ensuring that you can access the website you need to visit. Ignoring the error message could lead to frustration and wasted time trying to access a website that won’t load.

By understanding the possible causes of the “dns_probe_finished_nxdomain” error and how to fix them, you can avoid the problem altogether or quickly resolve it when it occurs.

Where do you see the dns_probe_finished_nxdomain error?

You’ll know you’re impacted by the “dns_probe_finished_nxdomain” error when you try to visit a website but it fails to load, and you receive a message that says “This site can’t be reached” or “dns_probe_finished_nxdomain”.

dns_probe_finished_nxdomain

The error can occur on any device, including your computer, phone, or tablet, and it may happen in any web browser. The error message usually indicates that there’s an issue with your DNS settings or your internet connection.

The error can occur when you’re trying to access any website, including popular sites like Google, Facebook, or YouTube. The error can happen at any time and can be intermittent or persistent, depending on the cause.

It’s possible that the error is caused by a temporary issue with the website or your internet connection, in which case the problem may resolve itself after a few minutes. However, if the error persists, it’s important to troubleshoot and fix the underlying issue to ensure you can access the websites you need.

How to fix dns_probe_finished_nxdomain error

When you encounter the “dns_probe_finished_nxdomain” error, there are a few basic troubleshooting steps you can try before moving on to more advanced solutions.

Basic troubleshooting steps

  1. Restarting the router and modem -The first step is to restart your router and modem, as this can sometimes resolve temporary internet connectivity issues. Simply unplug both devices from the power source, wait a few seconds, and then plug them back in.
  2. Clearing the browser cache and cookies – The second step is to clear your browser’s cache and cookies, which can help fix any temporary issues with your browser. To do this, go to your browser settings, find the option to clear your cache and cookies, and select the appropriate options.
  3. Flushing the DNS cache – The third step is to flush your DNS cache, which can help fix any issues with your DNS settings. To do this, open the Command Prompt on your computer, type “ipconfig /flushdns”, and press Enter.

These basic troubleshooting steps can often help resolve the “dns_probe_finished_nxdomain” error, but if the error persists, you may need to try more advanced solutions.

Advanced troubleshooting steps

If the basic troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the “dns_probe_finished_nxdomain” error, there are some advanced troubleshooting steps you can try.

  1. Changing the DNS server settings – The first step is to change your DNS server settings to a public DNS server like Google DNS or OpenDNS. To do this, go to your network settings, find the option to change your DNS server settings, and enter the IP address of the public DNS server.
  2. Checking the router configuration – The second step is to check your router configuration to ensure that it’s not blocking any DNS requests. To do this, log in to your router’s settings, find the option to check the DNS settings, and ensure that DNS requests are allowed.
  3. Updating or reinstalling network drivers – The third step is to update or reinstall your network drivers, as outdated or corrupted drivers can sometimes cause DNS errors. To do this, go to your device manager, find the network adapter, and update or reinstall the driver

These advanced troubleshooting steps can often help resolve the “dns_probe_finished_nxdomain” error, but if the error persists, you may need to seek professional help or contact your internet service provider.

How to prevent dns_probe_finished_nxdomain error

The “dns_probe_finished_nxdomain” error can be frustrating and disruptive, but there are steps you can take to prevent it from happening in the first place.

One of the most important things you can do is to regularly update your network and security software, including your antivirus and firewall software. These updates often contain important bug fixes and security patches that can prevent DNS errors and other issues.

Another key step is to configure your DNS settings correctly, using a reliable DNS server and ensuring that your router is set up correctly. You can find detailed instructions on how to do this on your router manufacturer’s website.

Finally, it’s important to avoid suspicious websites and downloads, as these can sometimes contain malware that can interfere with your DNS settings and cause errors like “dns_probe_finished_nxdomain”.

Be sure to only download software from trusted sources and to use a secure browser with pop-up blockers and other security features. By taking these steps, you can help prevent the “dns_probe_finished_nxdomain” error and ensure a more secure and reliable internet experience.

Common questions related to dns_probe_finished_nxdomain

What is DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN?

DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN is an error message that appears when the DNS server is unable to resolve a domain name, indicating that the domain name does not exist or cannot be found.

How do I fix dns_probe_finished_nxdomain?

To fix dns_probe_finished_nxdomain, try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies, restarting your router or modem, flushing the DNS cache, or resetting your network settings.

How do I fix DNS error on Google Chrome?

To fix DNS server errors on Chrome, you can try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies, disabling browser extensions, resetting your network settings, or switching to a different DNS server.

What is Nxdomain error in Google Chrome?

NXDOMAIN is an error code that appears in Chrome when the DNS server is unable to resolve a domain name. It means that the domain name does not exist or cannot be found, and the browser is unable to establish a connection to the website.

Final Thoughts on DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN

The “dns_probe_finished_nxdomain” error occurs when your computer fails to find the IP address associated with the website you are trying to access, and it can be caused by DNS server issues, incorrect DNS configuration, network connectivity issues, or malware/virus infections. This error message can occur on any device, including your computer, phone, or tablet, and it may happen in any web browser.

To fix the error, you can try basic troubleshooting steps such as restarting the router and modem, clearing the browser cache and cookies, and flushing the DNS cache. If the error persists, more advanced solutions such as changing the DNS server settings, checking the router configuration, and updating or reinstalling network drivers may be necessary.

To prevent the “dns_probe_finished_nxdomain” error, you can regularly update your network and security software, configure your DNS settings correctly, and avoid suspicious websites and downloads. By taking these steps, you can help prevent the error and ensure a more secure and reliable internet experience.

  • Tiffani Anderson

    Tiffani is a Content and SEO Manager for the Bluehost brand. With over 10 years experience across all facets of content and brand marketing, she strives to combine concepts from brand marketing with engaging content through the lens of SEO.

    Education
    University of North Texas
    Previous Experience
    Content Marketing, SEO, Social Media
Learn more about Bluehost Editorial Guidelines

Write A Comment