Fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error (Step-by-Step) 2025

The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error is a very common issue in browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, and usually means the domain name you’re trying to access doesn’t exist or your system is having trouble resolving the DNS.

In this blog, let’s explore what this error means, why it occurs, and how you can fix it.

What Is DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN?

Let’s break down the error:

• DNS – Domain Name System
• PROBE – Browser’s attempt to access DNS
• FINISHED_NXDOMAIN – The DNS query finished with “Non-Existent Domain”

Example:

Why does this error occur in the first place?

Common causes:

• Domain doesn’t exist or DNS hasn’t propagated yet
• DNS misconfiguration (system or browser)
• Problems with the internet router or ISP
• Corrupted local DNS cache
• VPN or antivirus software interference

How to troubleshoot and fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN?

1. Restart Your Internet Router

A simple reboot often fixes network-related issues.

• Unplug your router, wait 10 seconds, plug it back in.
• Try accessing the site again. If this doesn’t fix the issue, try step #2.

2. Clear local DNS Cache (system’s cache)

Your computer might be storing an outdated or incorrect DNS record which is causing the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error.

To clear the local system DNS cache, execute the following commands:

On Windows:

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator
• Type the above command and hit Enter
• You’ll see: Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache.

On macOS:

• Run this in Terminal (you may be prompted for your password)

On Linux (Ubuntu):

3. Change DNS Server to Google or Cloudflare in your browser

Sometimes your ISP’s DNS is unreliable. Switching to a public DNS server resolves the error

Google DNS:

• 8.8.8.8
• 8.8.4.4

Cloudflare DNS:

• 1.1.1.1
• 1.1.1.1

Steps (Windows):

1. Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center
2. Click your connection → Properties
3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) → Properties
4. Choose “Use the following DNS server addresses”

Enter:

Preferred: 8.8.8.8

Alternate: 8.8.4.4

4. Release and Renew IP Address

On Windows:

Run both commands in Command Prompt.

5. Disable VPN, Proxy, or Antivirus Temporarily

Some VPNs or antivirus software block DNS queries or override settings.

• Disable them temporarily and reload the page.
• If the error disappears, tweak VPN or antivirus DNS settings or switch tools.

6. Check Hosts File (Advanced)

If you’ve manually edited the hosts file, it might block domains.

On Windows:

• Path: C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts
• Look for entries like: 127.0.0.1 example.com

Remove or comment them out if needed.

On macOS/Linux:

• Path: /etc/hosts
• Use: sudo nano /etc/hosts

7. Check Domain Validity and DNS Records

Use tools like: DNS Checker

dig or nslookup commands:

If the domain doesn’t resolve anywhere, the domain may not exist or DNS records may not be set properly.

8. Reset Chrome Flags (If Chrome Only)

Type this in Chrome’s address bar: chrome://flags

• Click Reset all to default
• Relaunch Chrome

9. Reset Network Settings (Windows)

If all else fails, reset your network stack:

netsh int ip reset
netsh winsock reset

Then reboot your system.

Conclusion

The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error may look intimidating, but it’s often a simple DNS or configuration problem. Try the above methods step by step to fix the issue. In most cases, flushing DNS cache or switching DNS servers resolves it quickly.

Pro Tip: If You’re a Website Owner

If your domain is new or recently updated:

• Wait up to 48 hours for DNS propagation
• Double-check nameservers in your domain registrar’s panel
• Use dig, nslookup, or DNS propagation tools to verify status

Need Help?

Facing persistent issues with your domain? Try Cloudexter Hosting – fast, reliable hosting with expert DNS support and free migration.