Key highlights
- ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED occurs when DNS cannot resolve a website’s address.
- Common causes include outdated cache, DNS misconfigurations or a slow DNS provider.
- Flushing your DNS cache refreshes outdated records that may cause the issue.
- Switching to a reliable DNS provider like Bluehost improves website speed and reliability.
- Bluehost’s DNS services are seamlessly integrated with hosting for better performance and security.
Introduction
Oops! Website not found? Let’s fix that!
Imagine this: You’re deep into something important—maybe you’re about to complete a big purchase, researching a topic for work or finally settling in to binge your favorite blog. You hit enter, expecting the page to load instantly and then… BAM! Instead of the website, you’re slapped with the frustrating “ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED” error. Seriously? Not now!
It feels like hitting a dead end, but don’t worry. This isn’t the internet’s way of betraying you. The good news? This error is totally fixable and you don’t need to be a tech genius to get things back on track. A few simple tweaks and you’ll be browsing smoothly again in no time.
Before we jump into the solutions, let’s quickly break down what this error actually means, why it happens and how it messes with your browsing experience. Understanding the why makes fixing it even easier!
Understanding the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error
At its core, ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error means your browser can’t find the website you’re trying to visit. Think of it like searching for a friend’s house, but your GPS can’t locate the address. Websites are mapped using domain names, which are translated into numerical IP addresses through a system called DNS (Domain Name System). When your browser makes a DNS request, if something goes wrong in this process and your browser can’t connect to the site, this leads to the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error.
This issue can occur on any browser—Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari and isn’t specific to a particular operating system. But why does it happen in the first place?
Related read: What is DNS (Domain Name System) and How Does it Work?
What causes ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED?
Several things can trigger this error, including:
- DNS server addresses issues: If your DNS server addresses are down or not responding, your browser won’t be able to resolve the domain name.
- Stable internet connection problems: A weak or disconnected internet protocol version issue can prevent your browser from reaching the site.
- Corrupt site data: Your browser may be holding onto outdated or incorrect cached address information, causing conflicts.
- Antivirus software interference: Sometimes, security software blocks access to certain websites, preventing domain name resolution.
- Incorrect network settings: Misconfigured DNS address settings or using an unreliable hosting provider can lead to this issue.
Impact of ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED on your browsing experience
This error isn’t just an inconvenience—it can disrupt your workflow, prevent you from accessing important information and even interfere with online transactions.
Whether you’re working, studying or just browsing for fun, facing this error can be a bit troublesome. If you’re trying to visit a business website, it might cause delays in communication or lost opportunities. For online shoppers, it could mean missing out on a great deal.
Preparing to fix the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error
Before you dive into ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED troubleshooting, it is important to know the right tools and resources to tackle the issue. Whether it’s a DNS problem, a browser glitch or a network misconfiguration, having a clear plan will make fixing it much easier.
Tools and resources you need
To diagnose and fix the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error efficiently, here are some essential tools and resources:
- A reliable DNS provider – Your DNS (Domain Name System) is responsible for translating website names into IP addresses. If your current DNS provider is slow or unreliable, it can lead to website errors. To fix website errors and ensure smoother browsing, consider switching to Bluehost. It is a great choice, offering fast and secure DNS services that ensure smoother browsing and website accessibility.
- Command prompt (Windows) or terminal (Mac/Linux) – You’ll use these to flush your DNS cache and reset network settings.
- A secondary device or network – Testing the website on a different device or internet connection can help determine whether the issue is with your network or the website itself.
- Incognito/private browsing mode – This helps check if cached data or extensions are causing conflicts.
- A DNS testing tool – Websites like DNS checker allow you to see if the website’s DNS records are propagating correctly.
Steps to fix ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED
Now, we are well aware of what’s causing the issue. So, let’s go through the step-by-step fixes to resolve the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error and get your browsing back on track:
- Clear your browser’s cache and cookies
- Flush your DNS cache
- Check your DNS settings
- Renew your IP address
Having known all, lets dig deeper into the details:
Clear your browser’s cache and cookies
Outdated or corrupted cache and cookies can be one of the common DNS resolution issues. Clearing them can help fix the issue. To clear your cache in Google Chrome:
- Click the Menu in the upper right.
- Choose History
3. Choose “Clear Browsing Data”.
4. Opt to clear all browsing history for “All time” and to clear browsing history, download history, cached images and files etc.
5. Close and restart your browser and see the changes.
Related read: How to Clear Browser Cache
Flush your DNS cache
Flushing your DNS cache removes outdated domain records, forcing your system to fetch fresh data.
Flush DNS in Windows
1. Click on Start, then search for Command Prompt.
- Once the Command Prompt is open, type:
ipconfig /flushdnsand press Enter. - A message will appear confirming that the DNS resolver cache was flushed.
Flush DNS in Mac OS X
- Click on Finder in the dock > Macintosh HD > Applications > Utilities.
- Double-click on Terminal.
In Mac OSX Leopard, you can use the following command to flush the DNS resolver cache:
dscacheutil -flushcache In Mac OSX versions 10.5.1 and before, the following command performs the same task:
lookupd -flushcache Related read: How to Flush Your DNS Cache
Check your DNS settings
If your DNS provider is unreliable, switching to a trusted one like Bluehost’s DNS or Google’s Public DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) can help.
- Go to “Network Settings” on your device.
- Select your active internet connection and open DNS settings.
- Change the DNS server to:
- Preferred DNS Server: 8.8.8.8
- Alternate DNS Server: 8.8.4.4
- Save the changes and restart your internet connection.
Related read: Common DNS Issues and How to Solve Them
Renew your IP address and reset your network adapter
Sometimes, network conflicts or outdated IP configurations cause this error. Renewing your IP can refresh your connection.
- Open Command Prompt or Terminal.
2. Type the following commands, pressing enter after each:
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
netsh winsock reset
3. Restart your device and try accessing the website again.
Related read: Everything You Need to Know About an IP Address
Advanced troubleshooting techniques
If the basic fixes didn’t resolve the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error, you can try these advanced troubleshooting techniques. These will help to bypass DNS issues and optimize your internet connection:
Modifying hosts file to bypass DNS
The hosts file on your device maps domain names to IP addresses. If a website isn’t resolving correctly, you can manually add its IP address to bypass DNS errors.
How to modify it:
- Find the website’s IP address using a tool like DNS Checker or by running:
nslookup website.com - Open the hosts file using a text editor:
- On Windows, go to: C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts
- On macOS/Linux, open Terminal and type:
sudo nano /etc/hosts
- Add the website’s IP address and domain name in this format:
192.168.1.1 website.com - Save the file and restart your browser.
This forces your computer to connect directly to the website’s IP address instead of relying on DNS resolution.
Changing DNS servers for faster internet access
If your default DNS provider is slow or unreliable, switching to a faster one can improve your browsing speed and resolve DNS-related errors.
How to change it:
- Open “Network Settings” on your device.
- Select your active internet connection and go to DNS settings.
- Manually enter one of the following high-performance DNS servers:
- Google DNS:
- Preferred: 8.8.8.8
- Alternate: 8.8.4.4
- Cloudflare DNS:
- Preferred: 1.1.1.1
- Alternate: 1.0.0.1
- Bluehost DNS (if hosting a website with Bluehost, refer to your account for the best DNS configuration).
- Save the changes and restart your internet connection.
Final thoughts
Dealing with the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error can be annoying. But with the right steps, you can resolve your Internet DNS issues in no time. Whether it’s clearing your browser cookies and site’s cache, flushing the DNS or switching providers, there’s a simple solution waiting for you. These fixes can make your browsing experience much smoother and faster.
If you’re looking for a reliable DNS provider, Bluehost is a top choice. With fast, secure, reliable and high-performance hosting paired with DNS services, Bluehost helps prevent errors like this from happening and keeps your connection stable.
Don’t let DNS issues slow you down. By using Bluehost’s hosting services with built-in DNS, you can ensure your websites load faster and you won’t run into those pesky error messages again.
Ready to make the switch? Choose Bluehost WordPress hosting plans now for seamless DNS services.
FAQs
This error often happens when there’s an issue with your DNS server, network internet settings or cached data. It can also occur if a website’s DNS records are not properly configured or if there’s a connection problem between your device and the DNS server. To resolve it, open Google Chrome and check your settings.
Yes, switching to faster and more reliable DNS servers like Google DNS or Cloudflare can improve browsing speed and provide better performance for DNS data. This can fix errors like ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED, especially if your current DNS provider is slow or experiencing issues.
To fix the error on mobile devices, try clearing the browser cache, adjusting your browser settings, restarting your phone or changing the DNS settings in the Wi-Fi connection settings.
Usually, you don’t need to contact your internet service provider (ISP) for this error. Most of the time, it can be resolved by clearing your cache, flushing the DNS or changing DNS servers. However, if the issue persists, contacting your internet service provider may help to rule out any problems with your connection.
