Understanding DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN and Similar Errors

DNS-related errors can be frustrating, especially when they prevent users from accessing your website. One of the common errors that users encounter is DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN. In this article, we will explain what this error means, its potential causes, and how to troubleshoot it effectively. We will also explore similar DNS errors and how to resolve them.

What is DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN?

The error message DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN typically occurs when a browser is unable to resolve a domain name to an IP address. This error indicates that the DNS (Domain Name System) server could not find a record for the domain you are trying to access. Specifically, the NXDOMAIN part of the message stands for Non-Existent Domain, meaning that the DNS query returned no results for the domain name.

Common Causes of DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN:

1. Incorrect DNS Configuration: If the domain's DNS settings are not configured properly, the browser will not be able to resolve the domain name.
2. Domain Name Doesn't Exist: If the domain name has expired or was never registered, the DNS query will return an NXDOMAIN error.
3. DNS Propagation Delay: If DNS records were recently updated, it might take some time for the changes to propagate across DNS servers globally.
4. Incorrect DNS Server Settings on Client Device: If the DNS settings on the user's device are misconfigured or point to invalid DNS servers, this error can occur.
5. Domain Name Server Issues: If the DNS servers you are using (either your web host’s or a third-party DNS provider) are down or malfunctioning, you may see this error.

How to Fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN

1. Check Domain Registration Status

The first step in resolving this issue is to ensure that the domain is active and properly registered.

• Check the WHOIS Information: Use a WHOIS lookup tool to verify that your domain is registered and that it is not expired.
• Verify Nameservers: Ensure that the domain's nameservers are correctly set. You can check this by logging into your domain registrar’s control panel and reviewing the nameserver settings.

If your domain is expired or the registration information is incorrect, contact your domain registrar to renew or correct the details.

2. Verify DNS Settings

Incorrect DNS records can cause the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error. Follow these steps to check and modify your DNS settings:

• Access your DNS Manager: If you're using cPanel, navigate to the Zone Editor or DNS Manager. Make sure that your domain has valid A records, CNAME records, and other necessary DNS records configured correctly.

  Common DNS records to check include:

  • A Record: Points the domain to an IP address.
  • CNAME Record: Aliases a domain to another domain.
  • MX Records: Specifies mail servers for the domain.

• Check for Missing or Incorrect Records: Ensure that there are no missing records for your domain or subdomains, especially A records and CNAME records.

3. Clear DNS Cache on Your Computer

Sometimes, the problem may be with cached DNS information on your local machine. To clear your DNS cache, follow these steps depending on your operating system:

• Windows: Open Command Prompt and type the following command:

  ipconfig /flushdns
  

  Then press Enter.

• MacOS: Open the Terminal and type the following command:

  sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
  

  Then press Enter.

• Linux: Use the following command:

  sudo systemctl restart systemd-resolved
  

4. Change DNS Servers

If your DNS provider is facing issues, switching to a more reliable DNS server might resolve the problem. Popular public DNS servers include:

• Google DNS:
  Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8
  Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4

• Cloudflare DNS:
  Primary DNS: 1.1.1.1
  Secondary DNS: 1.0.0.1

To change DNS servers on your computer:

• Windows: Open Network and Sharing Center > Change Adapter Settings > Right-click your active connection > Properties > Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) > Enter DNS server addresses.
• MacOS: Open System Preferences > Network > Advanced > DNS tab > Add new DNS servers.

5. Check for DNS Propagation Delay

If you've recently updated your domain’s DNS settings or changed nameservers, the error could be due to DNS propagation delay. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to 48 hours, depending on the TTL (Time to Live) settings of your DNS records.

To check if DNS propagation is complete, you can use tools like WhatsMyDNS to monitor the global propagation of your DNS records.

6. Restart Router/Network Equipment

Sometimes, the issue may lie with your network configuration. Restarting your router or network equipment may refresh the connection and resolve the DNS issues.

7. Check for Server-Side DNS Issues

If you've confirmed that everything on your end is correctly configured and the problem persists, there could be an issue with your hosting provider's DNS servers. In this case, you should contact your hosting provider's support team for assistance. They may be able to diagnose any server-side issues and resolve them.

Other DNS-Related Errors and Troubleshooting

1. DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NO_INTERNET

This error occurs when the DNS query fails due to a lack of internet connection or misconfiguration. To fix this:

• Ensure your internet connection is active.
• Restart your router and check the device's network settings.

2. DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_BAD_CONFIG

This error typically happens due to misconfigured DNS settings on your computer or network. Resetting your DNS settings or using default DNS servers can help resolve this issue.

3. Server DNS Error

A server DNS error can happen when the DNS server you're using is down or malfunctioning. In this case:

• Try switching to a different DNS server (e.g., Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS).
• Contact your hosting provider if you suspect server-side DNS issues.

FAQ - DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN

Q: What is the difference between NXDOMAIN and SERVFAIL?

• NXDOMAIN means that the domain does not exist or cannot be resolved.
• SERVFAIL indicates that the DNS server encountered an internal issue and could not process the request.

Q: Can I fix this error by changing my domain registrar?

Switching registrars may resolve DNS configuration problems if the issue lies with the registrar’s settings. However, make sure that your DNS records are correctly set up before considering this option.

Q: Does DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN affect SEO?

Yes, persistent DNS issues can impact your website's SEO rankings. Search engines may consider your site unreliable if it is frequently inaccessible due to DNS errors.

Conclusion

DNS errors like DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN can be disruptive, but they are usually easy to fix by following the proper troubleshooting steps. If you follow the steps outlined in this article and ensure your DNS settings are properly configured, you should be able to resolve the issue quickly. If the problem persists, our support team is always ready to assist you with advanced diagnostics.

If you have further questions or require assistance, feel free to reach out to our support team.