How to Fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error in WordPress

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• What is the Domain Name System (DNS)?
• DNS Servers: How Do They Work?
• What Does DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Mean?
• Common Causes of the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error
• How Does DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Look in Different Browsers?
• How to Fix the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error In WordPress
• Best Preventive Ways for DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error
• Conclusion

Introduction

The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error is a common issue that many WordPress users encounter. It can prevent you from accessing your WordPress site. This error can be frustrating, especially when you rely on your site for business or personal use. The error usually means that the browser is unable to resolve the website’s domain. This issue could be due to problems with DNS servers, expired domains, or incorrect DNS settings.

What is the Domain Name System (DNS)?

The Domain Name System (DNS) is like the phonebook of the Internet. It helps translate human-readable domain names, such as nytimes.com or espn.com, into machine-readable IP addresses. These IP addresses allow browsers to access the websites we want to visit.

Your computer makes a request to a DNS server when you enter the name of a website into your browser. The DNS server looks up the corresponding IP address and sends it back, allowing your browser to load the website. Without DNS, you’d have to memorize complex IP addresses like 192.168.1.1 or even more complicated ones in IPv6, such as 2400:cb00:2048:1::c629:d7a2.

DNS makes it easier for us to browse the internet without worrying about remembering these numeric addresses. It functions similarly to your phone’s contact list. Instead of remembering someone’s phone number, you can just search their name. In a similar vein, DNS only requires the name of the website rather than its IP address.

DNS operates through a series of steps:

1. Root Server: The request starts at the root server.
2. Top-Level Domain (TLD) Server: The TLD server helps narrow down the search.
3. Authoritative Server: This server has the final IP address and directs you to the site.

This system operates on a global scale, utilizing thousands of DNS servers worldwide. These servers work together to resolve domain names and determine each website’s IP address.

To put it simply, DNS is the system that enables your browser to convert domain names into IP addresses so that you may visit websites with ease.  If DNS fails, you might see an error like DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN, which means your browser couldn’t find the correct IP address for the domain you entered.

DNS Servers: How Do They Work?

DNS servers are essential for converting domain names into IP addresses. They are responsible for ensuring that when you type a website address into your browser, it can locate the right server and load the site. Here’s how they work:

1. Sending the Request: Your device makes a request to a DNS server when you type a URL into your browser. This request asks for the IP address that corresponds to the domain name you’ve entered, like example.com.
2. DNS Resolver: The first stop for this request is the DNS resolver. Usually, your Internet service provider (ISP) provides this server.It is responsible for managing the query process and ensuring the domain name is correctly translated.
3. Caching the IP Address: The DNS resolver looks through its cache to determine whether it already has the domain’s IP address. It returns the address to your browser if it has it stored.. This process speeds up future requests for the same website.
4. Querying the Root DNS Server: It makes a request to the root DNS server if the resolver does not already have the IP address cached. This is the first step in the lookup process and points to the next set of DNS servers.
5. Top-Level Domain (TLD) Servers: After contacting the root server, the resolver asks a TLD DNS server. TLD servers are responsible for handling domain extensions like .com, .org, or .net. They provide the address of the next server in line.
6. Authoritative DNS Server: Lastly, a request is sent to the authoritative DNS server via the DNS resolver. This server holds the final and most accurate information about the domain. It responds with the IP address associated with the website.
7. Returning the IP Address: Once the resolver has the IP address, it sends it back to your device. Your browser then uses this IP address to connect to the web server that hosts the website.
8. Caching for Future Requests: The DNS resolver saves the IP address in its cache for future use. This means the next time you visit the same site, the resolver can quickly send the IP address without needing to go through the entire process again.

What Does DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Mean?

When the DNS (Domain Name System) on your device is unable to translate the domain name into an IP address, you get the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error.  This error message indicates that the DNS server could not find the matching IP address for the requested domain, which results in the domain being labeled as Non-Existent Domain (NXDOMAIN).

Essentially, the error prevents your browser from accessing the website because the DNS system cannot connect the domain name to a valid web server. When you encounter the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error, it typically signifies that either the domain name doesn’t exist, or there are misconfigurations or issues with the DNS settings on your device.

This error may appear due to various reasons, such as incorrect DNS configurations, expired DNS cache, or network connectivity problems. It can also occur if the DNS settings are being blocked or affected by malware on your system. The NXDOMAIN part of the error message confirms that the DNS query has failed to find any corresponding IP address for the domain name, essentially telling your device that the domain doesn’t exist.

Common Causes of the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error

There are multiple reasons why the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error may arise. The first step in tackling the issue is to understand its contributing aspects. The DNS system was unable to resolve the domain name to an IP address, as this error frequently suggests. Let’s examine the most frequent reasons for this issue in more detail.

1. Incorrect Domain Name

One of the most common reasons for encountering the NXDOMAIN_DNS_PROBE_FINISHED A typo in the domain name is the cause of the WordPress issue. If you type the domain name incorrectly, the DNS server won’t be able to match it to the correct IP address. This leads to the error. Even a small mistake in spelling, such as missing a letter or adding an extra space, can trigger this problem.

2. Expired or Unregistered Domain

Another common reason for the WordPress DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error is an expired or unregistered domain. When a domain expires or is not renewed, the DNS server can no longer resolve the domain name to an IP address. This can cause the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error in Chrome or any other browser.

3. Incorrect DNS Settings

The DNS server may be unable to resolve the website’s domain if your computer or web hosting server has incorrect DNS settings. This may occur if you have recently changed hosting providers or altered your WordPress site DNS error solution without updating the DNS records. If the DNS configuration points to the wrong server or uses incorrect server addresses, the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error will appear.

4. Corrupted or Outdated DNS Cache

Your browser stores DNS information in a local cache to speed up the loading process. This cache may eventually become corrupted or out-of-date, which would result in the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error. When you try to visit a website, the browser may attempt to use outdated information from the cache, preventing the DNS from resolving the domain correctly.

5. DNS Server Issues

Sometimes the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error is caused by issues with the DNS server itself. The DNS servers of your web hosting company or Internet service provider (ISP) might be having problems. This can prevent the DNS server from correctly resolving the domain name.

6. VPN or Proxy Server Conflicts

Using a proxy server or VPN could result in DNS resolution problems. VPNs and proxies often reroute your traffic through their own DNS servers, which might not be properly configured. DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Mac or mobile errors may result from this.

7. Firewall or Security Software Blocking DNS Requests

The DNS server cannot access your device if firewalls or antivirus software block DNS requests.  This can result in the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Windows error. Some security programs or firewalls may block the DNS resolution process, mistakenly identifying it as suspicious traffic.

8. Router or Modem Issues

A malfunctioning router or modem can cause DNS resolution problems, especially if the device has not been restarted in a long time. Routers and modems may cache DNS information, and when this cache becomes outdated or corrupted, it can prevent the DNS system from resolving domain names correctly.

9. ISP DNS Server Problems

Sometimes, your Internet Service Provider’s DNS servers may be down or experiencing problems. This can prevent the DNS system from resolving domain names correctly, causing the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error in Chrome and other browsers.

10. Hosts File Issues

The hosts file on your computer is a local file that maps domain names to IP addresses. The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error may occur if the hosts file is misconfigured or contains erroneous entries. This can happen if the domain is incorrectly blocked or mapped to the wrong IP address in the hosts file.

How Does DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Look in Different Browsers?

The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error appears differently across browsers. Each browser displays a unique message when it cannot resolve a domain name. Understanding these variations can help in identifying and troubleshooting the issue effectively.

1. Google Chrome
   In Chrome, you’ll see the message “This site can’t be reached.” This indicates that Chrome couldn’t resolve the DNS for the domain. The browser fails to connect the domain name with its corresponding IP address, resulting in the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error.
2. Mozilla Firefox
   In Firefox, the error message reads, “Hmm. We’re having trouble finding that site.” This error appears when Firefox cannot resolve the domain name to an IP address. As a result, the browser displays the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN message, indicating that the domain could not be found.
3. Safari
   Safari shows the message, “Safari can’t find the server.” This error indicates that Safari could not resolve the DNS of the domain you entered. The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error occurs because the browser fails to match the domain name with a valid IP address.
4. Microsoft Edge
   In Microsoft Edge, the error message is “Hmm… we can’t reach this page.” This appears when Edge cannot resolve the DNS request. The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error means the domain name could not be linked to the corresponding IP address, preventing access to the website.
5. Mobile Browsers
   On mobile devices, you may see a message like “Server not found.” This error occurs when the mobile browser is unable to resolve the domain name into an IP address. The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error appears due to DNS issues, causing the website to be unreachable.

How to Fix the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error In WordPress

The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error is common when browsing websites. It’s a DNS-related issue that occurs when the Domain Name System (DNS) fails to resolve the website’s domain into an IP address. The error means the site cannot be found, which is why it prevents you from accessing the page. Below, we’ll walk through a comprehensive guide to fixing this error in WordPress.

1. Restart Your Device and Router/Modem

Start by restarting your computer and router. This can fix temporary connection issues and refresh your network settings.

Steps:

• Turn off your computer and router.
• Wait for about a minute.
• Turn on the router first, followed by the computer.
• Try accessing the website again.

2. Clear Your Browser Cache and Cookies

A corrupted browser cache can cause the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error. By clearing your browser’s cache, you remove outdated information that may be preventing the website from loading.

Steps for Google Chrome:

• Open Chrome and click on the three dots in the top-right corner.
• Go to More Tools > Clear Browsing Data.
• Choose Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files.
• Click Clear data.
• Restart your browser and try loading the website again.

3. Flush the DNS Cache

Your device stores DNS records to speed up the process of connecting to websites. However, outdated or corrupt DNS cache entries can cause the error. Flushing the cache clears out old records, potentially fixing the issue.

Steps for Windows:

• Open the Command Prompt and type ipconfig /flushdns.
• Press Enter and restart your computer.

Steps for Mac:

• Open the Terminal and type sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder.
• Press Enter and restart your computer.

4. Release and Renew Your IP Address

Renewing your IP address forces your device to request a new IP from your router, which can help resolve DNS issues.

Steps for Windows:

• Open Command Prompt and type ipconfig /release, followed by ipconfig /renew.
• Restart your computer.

Steps for Mac:

• Open System Preferences > Network.
• Select your network connection, then click on Advanced.
• Under the TCP/IP tab, click Renew DHCP Lease.

5. Change Your DNS Server

Your DNS server may be the cause of the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error. Switching to a more reliable public DNS service, like Google DNS or Cloudflare, can help resolve the issue.

Steps for Windows:

• Open Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
• Click Change adapter settings, right-click your network, and select Properties.
• Choose Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), then click Properties.
• Select Use the following DNS server addresses, and enter the following:
  • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8 (Google DNS)
  • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4 (Google DNS)
• Click OK, restart your browser, and check if the error is resolved.

Steps for Mac:

• Go to System Preferences > Network.
• Click Advanced, then the DNS tab.
• Add the following DNS addresses:
  • 8.8.8.8 (Google DNS)
  • 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare DNS)
• Click OK, restart your browser, and test the website again.

6. Check Your Hosts File

Sometimes, a misconfigured hosts file can block a specific website. Checking and editing your hosts file can resolve the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error if the website is mistakenly blocked.

Steps for Windows:

• Open Notepad as an administrator.
• Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts and open the file.
• Look for any entries related to your website and remove them.
• Save the file and restart your computer.

Steps for Mac:

• Open Terminal and type sudo nano /private/etc/hosts.
• Look for any entries that refer to the blocked site and remove them.
• Save the changes and restart your computer.

7. Reset Chrome Flags (For Google Chrome Users)

Google Chrome has experimental features called flags, which can occasionally cause errors. Resetting all Chrome flags to default may help fix the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error.

Steps:

• Type chrome://flags into the Chrome address bar.
• Click Reset all at the top of the page.
• Restart Chrome and try accessing the website again.

8. Disable Antivirus and VPN Temporarily

Antivirus software and VPNs can sometimes block access to websites, causing DNS errors. Temporarily disabling them can assist in determining whether they are the cause of the problem.

Steps:

• Disable your antivirus software temporarily.
• If you are using a VPN, disconnect it.
• Try accessing your website again to see if the error persists.

9. Examine Your WordPress Site’s DNS Settings

If the error occurs only with your WordPress site, check your domain’s DNS settings. Incorrect DNS records can cause this error.By visiting the website of your domain registrar, you may verify that the DNS records are set up properly.

Steps:

• Check the nameservers for your domain.
• Ensure they are pointing to the correct hosting provider’s servers.
• If necessary, update the DNS records to match your hosting provider’s settings.

10. Contact Your Web Hosting Provider

If all else fails, contact your web hosting provider for assistance. Their DNS settings may be incorrect, or the problem may be server-related. Provide them with the error details and ask for a resolution.

Best Preventive Ways for DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error

1. Regularly Update DNS Records
   Always ensure your domain DNS records are up-to-date with your hosting provider. This helps avoid discrepancies between your domain name and IP address, preventing the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error. Regular updates reduce the chance of outdated records that may cause DNS resolution failures when accessing your site.
2. Switch to Reliable DNS Providers
   Using reliable DNS providers like Google DNS or Cloudflare ensures faster and more secure DNS resolution. Their high performance reduces the chances of DNS failures. Making the switch to these public DNS services can reduce the likelihood of running into the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN issue later on.
3. Use a CDN for Improved DNS Resolution
   Using a Content Delivery Network (CDN) helps cache DNS records across various locations. This not only speeds up website access but also provides a backup in case your primary DNS server goes down. CDNs reduce DNS issues like DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN, offering better uptime and reliability.
4. Monitor and Renew Domain Registration
   Check the status of your domain registration on a regular basis. Ensure that your domain hasn’t expired and remains properly registered. An expired or deactivated domain can trigger DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN errors. Set reminders for renewal to avoid accidental lapses and ensure continuous service.
5. Avoid Modifying Hosts File Without Knowledge
   Accidentally modifying the hosts file can cause DNS errors. Always check for any incorrect entries before making changes. If you need to edit the hosts file, back it up first to prevent any future DNS issues. This will help prevent DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN caused by incorrect mapping.
6. Clear DNS Cache Regularly
   Regularly clearing your device’s DNS cache can prevent it from storing outdated DNS records. Cached data can sometimes cause DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN errors when accessing websites. Clearing the cache helps your device request fresh DNS data from the server, ensuring accurate and up-to-date results.
7. Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings
   Make that DNS traffic is not blocked by your antivirus program or firewall. The DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error can occasionally be caused by security software inadvertently blocking access to particular domains. Configure your firewall to allow proper DNS resolution without restrictions to prevent future errors.
8. Verify DNS Server Settings Before Making Changes
   Before changing your DNS server settings, make sure you are using valid and recommended DNS servers. Using incorrect DNS servers can trigger the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error. Double-check the DNS server addresses before applying any changes to avoid network connectivity issues.
9. Enable Auto-Renew for Domain Name
   Set your domain registration to auto-renew so that you never miss an expiry date. A lapsed domain can quickly result in DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN errors. By enabling auto-renew, you ensure uninterrupted access to your site without worrying about expired domains.
10. Maintain Proper Network Configuration
    Ensure that your local network settings, such as IP address, DNS, and gateway, are correctly configured. Misconfigurations in network settings can result in DNS resolution issues. Keeping a consistent and proper configuration prevents DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN errors, ensuring stable network communication.

Conclusion

For many WordPress users, the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error is a bothersome problem that frequently prevents access to their website. The DNS server’s inability to translate the domain name into the correct IP address is usually the cause. This issue can arise from several causes, including incorrect domain names, expired domains, misconfigured DNS settings, or issues with your network connection.

Understanding the Domain Name System’s (DNS) operation and recognizing the typical reasons for this error will help you troubleshoot and fix it quickly. Clearing your DNS cache, checking your domain settings, updating DNS records, and using reliable DNS providers like Google or Cloudflare can help prevent this error from happening again.

Additionally, maintaining proper network settings and regularly monitoring your domain registration will keep your WordPress site running smoothly and free from DNS-related issues.

If you’ve followed the steps and the error persists, don’t hesitate to contact WordPress support for assistance. You can visit www.woohelpdesk.com or call WordPress support at +1 800-556-3577 for expert help in resolving the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error and ensuring your website stays accessible.