PlainError

DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN: Browser cannot find the website address

Last checked 2026-11-02 · 4 fixes · reviewed answer

TL;DRThis error appears in web browsers like Chrome on Windows when it cannot translate a website name into an address. DNS is the system that turns names like example.com into numbers computers use. NXDOMAIN means the name does not exist or could not be found. It is often harmless for a single mistyped or temporary site but indicates a lookup problem if it affects many sites.

Most likely cause: Website address is misspelled or the site no longer exists

Try first: Double-check the web address

Likely causes

  1. Website address is misspelled or the site no longer existsmost likely
  2. Local DNS cache on the computer holds outdated or bad datapossible
  3. Router or ISP DNS server is temporarily unreachable or misconfiguredpossible
  4. Network adapter settings or firewall blocking DNS trafficless likely

How to fix it

Safest first: SafeChanges settingsDangerous

  1. Double-check the web addressSafe

    Make sure the URL is typed correctly and try visiting a well-known site like google.com to test if the problem is limited to one address.

  2. Flush the DNS cacheChanges settings

    Clear stored DNS information so Windows asks for fresh addresses.

    ipconfig /flushdns

  3. Restart the network adapterChanges settings

    Disable and re-enable the Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection in Windows Settings to force a fresh connection.

  4. Switch to public DNS serversChanges settings

    Change DNS settings to use Google's 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 in the network adapter properties.

    ⚠ This changes your DNS provider; note your current settings first if you need to revert.

If that didn't fix it

Open Command Prompt and run nslookup followed by the website name to see if DNS resolution fails at the command level.

When to see a technician

Contact a technician if the error affects every website after trying the steps above and your other devices work normally on the same network.

Quick answers

What does DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN: Browser cannot find the website address mean?
This error appears in web browsers like Chrome on Windows when it cannot translate a website name into an address. DNS is the system that turns names like example.com into numbers computers use. NXDOMAIN means the name does not exist or could not be found. It is often harmless for a single mistyped or temporary site but indicates a lookup problem if it affects many sites.
What causes DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN: Browser cannot find the website address?
Website address is misspelled or the site no longer exists. (most likely) Local DNS cache on the computer holds outdated or bad data. (possible) Router or ISP DNS server is temporarily unreachable or misconfigured. (possible) Network adapter settings or firewall blocking DNS traffic. (less likely)
How do I fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN: Browser cannot find the website address?
Try these in order, safest first: 1. Double-check the web address. 2. Flush the DNS cache. 3. Restart the network adapter. 4. Switch to public DNS servers.
What if that didn't fix it?
Open Command Prompt and run nslookup followed by the website name to see if DNS resolution fails at the command level.
When should I see a technician?
Contact a technician if the error affects every website after trying the steps above and your other devices work normally on the same network.
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