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DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Fix: Step-by-Step Solutions

Fix the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error with proven troubleshooting steps for Windows, Mac, and mobile devices.

By Editorial Team
  • dns error
  • nxdomain
  • fix
  • troubleshooting

DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Fix: Step-by-Step Solutions

The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error means your browser cannot find the website’s IP address. The domain either does not exist, or your DNS resolver cannot locate it. This guide provides step-by-step fixes for Windows, Mac, and mobile devices.

What NXDOMAIN Means

NXDOMAIN stands for “Non-Existent Domain.” Your DNS query returned no results. This can mean:

  • The domain is misspelled
  • The domain does not exist
  • Your DNS server is failing
  • Your hosts file blocks the domain

Fix 1: Check the URL

The most common cause is a typo. Verify the spelling. Try adding or removing “www.” Some sites redirect one to the other.

Fix 2: Flush DNS Cache

Windows:

ipconfig /flushdns

Mac (Ventura and later):

sudo dscacheutil -flushcache
sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

Mac (Monterey and earlier):

sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

Restart your browser after flushing.

Fix 3: Change DNS Servers

Switch to public DNS:

  • Google: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
  • Cloudflare: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
  • Quad9: 9.9.9.9

Windows:

  1. Control Panel -> Network and Sharing Center
  2. Change adapter settings
  3. Right-click your connection -> Properties
  4. Select IPv4 -> Properties
  5. Enter preferred and alternate DNS

Mac:

  1. System Settings -> Network
  2. Click your connection -> Details
  3. DNS tab -> add servers

Fix 4: Reset Network Settings

Windows:

netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew

Restart your computer.

Mac: Remove and re-add your WiFi network in System Settings.

Fix 5: Check Hosts File

Malware and some privacy tools modify the hosts file to block domains.

Windows: Open C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts in Notepad (run as administrator) Mac: Open /etc/hosts in Terminal with sudo

Look for the domain on any line starting with an IP address. Remove the line if found.

Fix 6: Disable VPN and Proxy

VPNs and proxies can route DNS queries through servers that fail. Disable them temporarily to test.

Fix 7: Restart Router

Unplug your router for 30 seconds. This clears the router’s DNS cache and refreshes your connection.

Mobile Fixes

iPhone:

  1. Settings -> WiFi -> tap the “i” next to your network
  2. Configure DNS -> Manual -> add 8.8.8.8

Android:

  1. Settings -> WiFi -> long-press your network
  2. Modify network -> Show advanced options
  3. Change IP settings to Static
  4. Enter DNS 8.8.8.8

When Nothing Works

If the domain truly does not exist, no DNS fix helps. Verify the domain with our status checker or a WHOIS lookup. If the domain is registered but not resolving, the issue is on the website owner’s side.

The Bottom Line

DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN is usually a local DNS issue. Work through these fixes methodically. Most resolve within minutes.

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