How to Fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN
Error message
This site can't be reached. DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN. <hostname>'s server IP address could not be found.
If you're seeing "DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN", you're not alone. Here's what it means, why it happens, and the steps to resolve it.
What this error means
Your machine asked a DNS server for the site's IP, and the server replied that no such name exists. Either the name is wrong or your DNS resolver is broken.
Why this happens
Typo in the domain, a custom DNS resolver that's down or misconfigured, a VPN steering DNS to an internal resolver that doesn't know the public name, or a recent domain expiration.
Step-by-step fix
Try a different known-good site to isolate the issue.
Flush the DNS cache and retry.
commandipconfig /flushdnsTest resolution directly against a public resolver to see if it's a local DNS problem.
commandnslookup <hostname> 1.1.1.1 nslookup <hostname> 8.8.8.8If those work but your default doesn't, fix or change your DNS settings (Network adapter → Properties → IPv4 → DNS).
Affected products
Windows Admin
Still broken? Try these
- Disconnect VPN and retest — corporate DNS often only resolves internal names.
- Confirm the domain hasn't expired with a public WHOIS lookup.
- Check `hosts` file at `C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts` for stale overrides.
Related errors
Frequently asked questions
What does "DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN" mean?
Your machine asked a DNS server for the site's IP, and the server replied that no such name exists. Either the name is wrong or your DNS resolver is broken.
What causes "DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN"?
Typo in the domain, a custom DNS resolver that's down or misconfigured, a VPN steering DNS to an internal resolver that doesn't know the public name, or a recent domain expiration.
How do I fix "DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN"?
1. Try a different known-good site to isolate the issue. 2. Flush the DNS cache and retry. 3. Test resolution directly against a public resolver to see if it's a local DNS problem. 4. If those work but your default doesn't, fix or change your DNS settings (Network adapter → Properties → IPv4 → DNS). Always test changes in a non-production environment first.
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