Understanding the ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ Error in Chrome
The ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ error in Google Chrome occurs when the browser cannot resolve the domain name of a website into an IP address, preventing the site from loading. This issue can arise from various causes, including DNS issues, network misconfigurations, or browser cache problems. In this section, we’ll explore the reasons behind this error and provide practical solutions to help you fix it and improve your browsing experience.
What is the ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ Error?
The ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ error is displayed when Chrome is unable to resolve the domain name (such as www.example.com ) to an IP address. Browsers rely on the Domain Name System (DNS) to convert human-readable domain names into machine-readable IP addresses. When DNS fails to resolve the address, Chrome is unable to establish a connection to the website. This error typically occurs due to problems with DNS resolution or network misconfigurations.
Why This Error Occurs and How It Affects Your Browsing Experience
The ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ error can happen for several reasons:
- DNS Resolution Failures: If the DNS server cannot find the IP address for the domain you’re trying to visit, Chrome will display this error. This can happen if the DNS server is down or incorrectly configured.
- Network Misconfigurations: Issues like incorrect IP settings, outdated network configurations, or improper DNS server addresses can lead to failed domain resolution.
- Browser Cache Issues: Corrupted or outdated browser cache can cause DNS-related problems, preventing Chrome from properly accessing websites.
- Firewall Settings Blocking DNS: Sometimes, firewalls or security software may block DNS requests, which will result in the browser being unable to resolve a domain.
For example, if your DNS settings are outdated or incorrectly configured, your browser might not be able to reach a website, leading to the ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ error. To fix this, you may need to update your DNS server settings or flush the DNS cache.
These issues impact your browsing experience by preventing access to websites, which can be frustrating, especially if you rely on the internet for work or personal use. By understanding the causes of this error, you can troubleshoot and implement solutions that restore normal browsing functionality.
For a deeper understanding of how to resolve this error, you can refer to Google’s official support page on ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED and other helpful resources like How To Fix the “ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED” Error (6 Methods) and How to Fix an ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error in Google Chrome (Help Desk Geek).
Common Causes of the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error and How DNS Affects It
The ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error fix is one of the most common issues encountered by website users, particularly when accessing a site that fails to load. This error occurs when the browser cannot resolve the domain name to an IP address, preventing the website from being accessed. One of the primary causes of this error is DNS (Domain Name System) issues, which are responsible for translating domain names into IP addresses. In this section, we will explore the common causes of this error and how DNS problems contribute to the issue, along with actionable steps to resolve it.
DNS Issues and Their Impact on Website Access
DNS resolution is the process by which a domain name, like www.example.com , is mapped to an IP address that browsers use to locate and load the website. When DNS fails to resolve a domain name, the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error can appear. There are several common DNS-related causes for this issue:
- Incorrect DNS Settings: If your DNS server settings are misconfigured, your device may not be able to contact the correct DNS server to resolve domain names. This can happen if the DNS server address is incorrect, or if a third-party DNS service is down.
- Unreachable DNS Server: If the DNS server you are using is unavailable or experiencing issues, the domain name cannot be resolved. This could happen due to server downtime, network issues, or a configuration error on your network.
- DNS Cache Problems: Your device stores DNS information in a cache to speed up future requests. However, if this cached data becomes outdated or corrupted, it can prevent domain names from being resolved correctly, triggering the error.
How to Fix DNS Issues
To resolve DNS issues, follow these steps:
- Flush the DNS Cache: Flushing your DNS cache can clear outdated or corrupted DNS records. For example, on Windows, you can use the command:
ipconfig /flushdns
This command clears the DNS cache, forcing your device to request fresh DNS records from the server.
- Change DNS Servers: If your DNS server is unreliable, you can change to a more stable DNS service like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS. To change your DNS settings, you can manually configure your network to use the following DNS addresses:
- Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 (Primary), 8.8.4.4 (Secondary)
- Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 (Primary), 1.0.0.1 (Secondary)
This change ensures that your device queries these faster and more reliable DNS servers.
For further guidance on changing DNS servers, check out this guide on changing DNS servers.
By addressing these common DNS issues, you can often resolve the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error quickly and restore your ability to access websites.
Network Connectivity Problems Contributing to the Error
Network connectivity issues can also contribute to the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error, especially if your device is unable to communicate with DNS servers due to network configuration problems. Here are some potential network-related causes:
- Weak or Intermittent Connection: If your internet connection is unstable or weak, DNS requests might not reach the server properly, causing the error. This can happen if you’re on a spotty Wi-Fi connection or using a mobile hotspot with low signal strength.
- Misconfigured Firewall or Router: Sometimes, a firewall or router misconfiguration can block DNS requests, preventing your device from reaching the DNS server. A strict firewall setting can mistakenly block DNS traffic, resulting in the error.
- Outdated Network Configuration: If your network settings are misconfigured, such as having a wrong IP address or subnet mask, your device may fail to access the DNS server. Resetting your network configuration can often resolve these issues.
How to Resolve Network Connectivity Issues
To fix network connectivity issues causing the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error, follow these steps:
- Test Your Connection: Ensure that your device has a stable internet connection. You can run the following command to test the connection:
ping 8.8.8.8
This command pings Google’s DNS server to check if your network is working correctly. If you get responses, your internet connection is functioning.
- Reset Network Configuration: Resetting your network settings can clear any incorrect configurations. On Windows, use the following command to reset the network:
netsh int ip reset
This resets your network stack, which can resolve issues caused by misconfigured network settings.
- Check Your Firewall and Router: Ensure that your firewall isn’t blocking DNS requests and that your router’s settings are correctly configured to allow DNS traffic. You can test this by temporarily disabling the firewall and checking if the error persists.
For more network-related troubleshooting, refer to this guide on network troubleshooting.
By resolving network connectivity problems, you can ensure that DNS requests are properly transmitted, allowing you to fix the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error and access websites without issues.
How to Troubleshoot Network Issues and DNS Configuration Problems
If you’re encountering the “ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED” error, it’s often tied to issues with your DNS settings or network configuration. Resolving this error involves a systematic approach to troubleshooting both your DNS settings and network configuration. By following these steps, you can quickly identify the source of the problem and take corrective actions to restore proper internet functionality.
How to Check DNS Settings and Network Configuration
Before diving into advanced troubleshooting methods, it’s important to verify that your DNS settings and network configuration are correctly set up. Misconfigured DNS settings are a common cause of the “ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED” error.
For Windows Users:
- Open the Command Prompt by typing cmd in the Start menu and selecting “Command Prompt.”
- Type ipconfig /all and press Enter. This will display your network settings.
- Look for the “DNS Servers” field in the results. Make sure the listed DNS servers are correct.
For macOS Users:
- Go to “System Preferences” > “Network.”
- Select your active network connection and click “Advanced.”
- Navigate to the “DNS” tab to check if the correct DNS servers are listed.
You should also check your network settings to ensure that your device is correctly connected to the network and receiving proper IP addressing. Incorrectly configured IP settings can lead to DNS resolution issues.
Tools for Diagnosing DNS Resolution Problems
To dig deeper into DNS resolution problems, several tools can help you pinpoint the issue. Two commonly used tools for diagnosing DNS problems are nslookup and dig .
nslookup Command:
- Open the Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS).
- Type nslookup <domain_name> (e.g., nslookup example.com ) and press Enter.
- Review the output to see if DNS resolution is working properly. If the DNS server fails to resolve the domain name, the issue might lie with your DNS settings.
The nslookup command queries DNS servers to resolve domain names and can help you identify whether the issue lies with your local DNS settings or with the DNS server itself.
dig Command (for advanced users):
- Open Terminal and type dig <domain_name> .
- The output will provide detailed DNS query information, including server responses and possible errors in DNS resolution.
These tools provide valuable insight into DNS performance and help you identify where the breakdown is occurring in the resolution process.
Common Network and DNS Fixes You Can Try
If you’ve identified DNS issues or misconfigurations, there are several simple fixes you can apply to resolve the “ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED” error.
1. Flush DNS Cache
Clearing your DNS cache can remove outdated or corrupt records, which may be causing the issue.
- On Windows: Open Command Prompt and run ipconfig /flushdns .
- On macOS: Open Terminal and run sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder .
Flushing the DNS cache forces your system to refresh DNS records, helping resolve conflicts caused by old data.
2. Change DNS Servers
Switching to a reliable third-party DNS service can improve your DNS resolution speed and reliability. Two popular options are:
- Google DNS: Set your DNS servers to 8.8.8.8 (primary) and 8.8.4.4 (secondary).
- OpenDNS: Use 208.67.222.222 (primary) and 208.67.220.220 (secondary).
To change DNS settings:
- On Windows: Open “Network Connections,” select your active connection, click “Properties,” then select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and input the new DNS servers.
- On macOS: Go to “System Preferences” > “Network” > “Advanced” > “DNS” and add the new DNS servers.
3. Reset Your Network Configuration
Sometimes, resetting your network settings can fix issues caused by incorrect configurations. On Windows, you can reset the network stack by running the following commands in Command Prompt:
netsh int ip reset
netsh winsock reset
These commands reset your IP configuration and Winsock catalog, potentially resolving DNS-related issues.
For macOS, you can reset network settings by turning off and turning on Wi-Fi or using the “Network” settings to forget and reconnect to your network.
Choosing the Right Hosting Provider for Optimized DNS and Network Performance
Selecting a hosting provider that ensures fast and reliable DNS resolution can prevent many of the issues that lead to the “ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED” error. When evaluating hosting providers, look for the following features:
- Low Latency DNS Servers: Providers with low-latency DNS servers offer faster domain name resolution, reducing the chances of errors like the “ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED” error.
- High Uptime Guarantee: A hosting provider with a strong uptime record ensures that your website remains accessible and your DNS servers stay operational.
- Custom DNS Options: Some providers allow you to configure custom DNS settings for better performance, giving you more control over DNS resolution.
Providers like SiteGround and Bluehost offer robust DNS infrastructure and network performance, making them good choices for businesses focused on minimizing network issues.
By carefully selecting a hosting provider with optimal DNS and network configuration capabilities, you can ensure a smoother online experience and avoid frequent DNS resolution errors.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED in Chrome
If you’re encountering the ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ error in Chrome, it indicates a problem with DNS resolution, preventing your browser from connecting to a specific website. This error can be caused by issues ranging from DNS server misconfigurations to browser cache problems. Fortunately, there are several ways to fix the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error and restore your browsing experience. Below, we walk through various methods to address the issue, providing step-by-step instructions for each solution.
Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
One of the simplest solutions to resolve the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error is clearing your browser cache and cookies. Over time, your browser may store outdated or corrupted files that interfere with DNS resolution. Clearing the cache can help remove these files and resolve many common issues.
Steps to Clear Cache and Cookies in Chrome:
- Open Google Chrome and click on the three vertical dots in the top-right corner to access the Menu.
- Select Settings.
- Scroll down and click on Privacy and Security.
- Under the Clear browsing data section, click Clear data.
- In the dialog box, select Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files.
- Click Clear data.
This action will delete stored cookies and cache, which may help resolve DNS-related errors. After clearing the data, restart Chrome and try accessing the website again.
Why this works: Clearing the browser cache helps eliminate corrupted or outdated files that may interfere with DNS resolution. It’s a quick fix for many DNS issues that cause errors like ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED.
Reset TCP/IP Stack and Flush DNS Cache
If clearing the browser cache didn’t fix the issue, the next step is to reset your TCP/IP stack and flush the DNS cache. These are system-level settings that can affect how your computer communicates with DNS servers. Resetting these can clear any network misconfigurations that may be causing the error.
Steps to Reset TCP/IP Stack and Flush DNS Cache:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator by typing cmd in the Windows search bar, right-clicking on Command Prompt, and selecting Run as Administrator.
- Type the following command to reset the TCP/IP stack:
netsh int ip reset - This command resets your network settings to their default values, resolving any misconfigurations.
- Next, flush the DNS cache by typing:
ipconfig /flushdns - This will remove the cached DNS records on your system and force Chrome to fetch fresh ones.
Once these commands are executed, restart your computer and try accessing the website again.
Why this works: Resetting the TCP/IP stack and flushing the DNS cache clears any system-level DNS issues that might be causing the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error. It’s an effective fix for network troubleshooting.
Change DNS Servers to Resolve the Issue
Another common cause of the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error is issues with your default DNS servers. Switching to a more reliable DNS provider, such as Google DNS or Cloudflare, can often resolve DNS-related errors.
Steps to Change DNS Servers in Windows:
- Open Control Panel and go to Network and Sharing Center.
- Click on Change adapter settings.
- Right-click your active network connection and select Properties.
- In the Properties window, select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
- Select the option Use the following DNS server addresses.
- Enter one of the following public DNS server addresses:
- Google DNS:
- Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
- Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
- Cloudflare DNS:
- Preferred DNS server: 1.1.1.1
- Alternate DNS server: 1.0.0.1
- Google DNS:
- Click OK to save the changes.
After making this change, restart Chrome and check if the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error is resolved.
Why this works: By switching to a more reliable DNS provider, you can bypass any issues with your current DNS servers, improving DNS resolution speed and reliability.
Verify Firewall Settings to Ensure DNS Access
In some cases, your firewall may be blocking DNS queries, which can lead to the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error. Ensuring that your firewall settings allow DNS traffic can help resolve this issue.
Steps to Check Firewall Settings:
- Open Windows Defender Firewall by searching for it in the Start menu.
- Click on Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
- Ensure that DNS Client is allowed for both Private and Public networks. If it’s not, click Change settings, check the box for DNS Client, and then click OK.
Once this is done, restart your computer and check if the problem persists.
Why this works: Ensuring your firewall allows DNS queries prevents interference with DNS traffic, which can cause the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error.
Configuring DNS Settings on Your Hosting Provider for Optimal Performance
If you’re managing your own website or server, optimizing your DNS settings at the hosting provider level can improve performance and reduce errors like the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error.
Steps to Configure DNS Settings with Your Hosting Provider:
- Log in to your hosting provider’s control panel (e.g., cPanel, Plesk).
- Navigate to the DNS Settings section.
- Ensure that your domain’s DNS records are correctly set up, including A records and CNAME records.
- If you’re using third-party DNS services, ensure that your domain is properly pointing to the correct nameservers provided by your DNS provider.
If needed, you can update your DNS records to improve resolution speed and reliability.
Why this works: Proper DNS configuration ensures that your domain’s DNS records are correctly set up, improving resolution accuracy and preventing errors like ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED.
By following these methods, you should be able to effectively resolve the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error in Chrome. Each fix addresses different potential causes of the issue, so try them in sequence to determine the best solution for your situation. For additional network troubleshooting, consider checking out How to Fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN Error: Easy Fixes for Any User.
How to Choose the Best DNS Server for Faster Browsing and Error-Free Experience
Selecting the right DNS server is crucial for a smoother online experience, especially when trying to fix the ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ error. A reliable DNS server not only resolves domain names efficiently but can also enhance your browsing speed and security. In this section, we’ll guide you through the factors to consider when choosing a DNS server, compare popular options, and explain how to test DNS performance to ensure a faster and more reliable browsing experience.
What to Look for in a DNS Provider
When selecting a DNS provider, several factors should influence your decision to ensure better performance and reliability. Here are the key considerations:
- Speed: A fast DNS server can significantly reduce loading times for websites. The quicker the server resolves domain names, the faster you can access websites.
- Reliability: Downtime or slow response times can lead to frustrating browsing experiences. Choose a DNS provider with a reputation for stability and minimal outages.
- Security Features: DNS servers that offer built-in security features like DNSSEC (DNS Security Extensions) can protect against attacks like DNS spoofing and man-in-the-middle attacks.
Popular DNS providers like Google DNS and Cloudflare DNS are known for their speed and reliability. Google DNS offers excellent speed, with servers distributed globally for minimal latency. Cloudflare DNS, on the other hand, is praised for its focus on privacy and security, offering features like DNS over HTTPS and DNS over TLS.
Comparing Popular DNS Servers for Speed and Reliability
Several DNS providers stand out for their speed and reliability, but which one is the best for you? Let’s compare some of the top DNS servers based on their performance:
- Google DNS: Known for its fast response times and global distribution, Google DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) is a solid choice for users who prioritize speed and reliability.
- Cloudflare DNS: Cloudflare’s DNS (1.1.1.1) is a great option for privacy-conscious users. It’s one of the fastest DNS services available and offers strong security features, such as DNS over HTTPS and DNS over TLS.
- OpenDNS: OpenDNS (208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220) offers reliable service with extra security features like phishing protection and customizable filtering options.
For a more detailed comparison of DNS server speeds, you can refer to performance benchmarks like DNSPerf Performance Analytics or check out the 12 Best Public DNS Servers for Faster Internet Speed.
How to Test DNS Servers for Performance and Stability
Testing your DNS server’s performance is essential to ensure you’re getting the best possible browsing speed and reliability. Here’s how you can do it:
- Use DNSPerf: DNSPerf provides performance data on DNS servers, showing response times and reliability. It’s an easy way to compare DNS providers based on real-world data.
- Visit DNSPerf to view the performance scores of various DNS servers worldwide.
- Run a Speed Test: Tools like namebench or DNS Benchmark can help you identify the fastest DNS servers for your location.
- These tools compare several DNS providers and provide suggestions based on speed and proximity to your network.
- Check for Stability: Stability can be assessed by monitoring your browsing experience over time. Look for periods where websites fail to load or load slower than usual, which could indicate issues with your DNS server’s reliability.
Testing these parameters regularly ensures your DNS server is functioning at its best, helping you avoid the dreaded ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ error and enhance your overall browsing experience.
Evaluating the Impact of Browser Extensions on the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error
Browser extensions can be a useful tool to enhance your web browsing experience, but sometimes they can cause DNS resolution issues, including the dreaded ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error. This section will help you understand how certain extensions interfere with DNS resolution, and provide practical steps to identify, disable, and test these extensions to fix the error effectively.
How Browser Extensions Can Interfere with DNS Resolution
Certain browser extensions, like VPNs or ad blockers, can alter or block DNS requests, leading to the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error. For example, VPN extensions may reroute DNS queries through their servers, causing a mismatch with the domain you’re trying to access. This can prevent your browser from resolving the website’s domain name correctly, triggering the error. Other extensions that modify network traffic, such as privacy-focused tools, can also interfere with the DNS process, causing similar issues.
Identifying and Disabling Problematic Extensions
To identify the extension causing the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error, follow these steps:
- Open your browser’s extensions page:
- In Google Chrome, go to the menu (three dots in the upper-right corner), select More tools > Extensions.
- In Firefox, click the menu button, then go to Add-ons > Extensions.
- Disable extensions one by one:
- Start by disabling the extensions that are most likely to affect DNS resolution, such as VPNs or ad blockers.
- After disabling an extension, refresh your browser and check if the error persists.
- Test the connection:
- Once you disable a suspect extension, visit the site that was causing the error. If the error no longer appears, you’ve likely identified the culprit.
If disabling the extension fixes the issue, you can either remove the extension permanently or check for updates to ensure it’s compatible with your current DNS settings.
How to Test Extensions to Confirm Their Impact
Once you’ve disabled an extension, it’s important to confirm whether it’s the source of the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error. To do this, use the browser’s incognito or private browsing mode, which disables all extensions by default:
- In Chrome:
- Open an Incognito window by clicking the menu icon and selecting New Incognito Window.
- Visit the site again. If the error doesn’t appear in this mode, it suggests that an extension is likely causing the issue.
- In Firefox:
- Open a Private Window by selecting New Private Window from the menu.
- Test the connection by visiting the site again.
By testing in incognito or private mode, you can confirm that the extension (or lack thereof) is the cause of the problem, and proceed with disabling or updating the problematic extension.
For additional details on resolving similar DNS issues, check out this guide on fixing the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error in Google Chrome or Mozilla’s troubleshooting for add-ons.
How to Optimize Your DNS and Browser Settings to Prevent Future Issues
The ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error often occurs when your browser fails to resolve a domain name, preventing you from accessing websites. This issue can stem from various causes, such as DNS misconfigurations, caching problems, or even network settings. In this section, we’ll walk you through actionable steps to optimize your DNS and browser settings, helping you resolve the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error and avoid similar issues in the future.
Optimizing DNS Settings for Improved Stability
To resolve the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error, one of the most effective strategies is optimizing your DNS settings. DNS (Domain Name System) settings control how your computer translates domain names (like “example.com”) into IP addresses. If your DNS server is slow or unreliable, it can cause resolution errors.
Here’s how to configure DNS settings for better stability:
- Choose a reliable DNS provider: Using well-known public DNS servers can significantly improve performance. Google DNS and Cloudflare DNS are popular choices:
- Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 (Primary), 8.8.4.4 (Secondary)
- Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 (Primary), 1.0.0.1 (Secondary)
- Configure your DNS settings:
- On Windows: Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change Adapter Settings. Right-click your active connection, select Properties, then choose Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4). Select Use the following DNS server addresses and input the DNS addresses above.
- On macOS: Go to System Preferences > Network > Advanced > DNS. Add the DNS addresses under the DNS Servers section.
These steps direct your system to use a more stable DNS provider, reducing the likelihood of encountering ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED.
Example: After switching to Cloudflare’s DNS, a user experienced faster webpage loads and fewer DNS resolution errors, including the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED issue.
Setting Up Automatic DNS Flushing to Avoid Caching Issues
DNS caching issues often cause the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error, especially after a domain’s DNS records change. If your system or browser uses outdated cached information, it can fail to resolve new domain names. To prevent this, setting up automatic DNS flushing can help ensure your system regularly clears old cache data.
Here’s how to set up automatic DNS flushing:
- For Windows: You can schedule a script to flush the DNS cache regularly. Open Task Scheduler and create a new task that runs the following command:
ipconfig /flushdnsThis command clears the DNS cache, ensuring that your system always uses fresh DNS information.
- For macOS: Open Terminal and use the following command to flush the DNS cache manually:
sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponderTo automate this, you can use a cron job or a script that runs at a set interval.
Regular DNS flushing prevents caching issues that may trigger the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error, ensuring your system always resolves domain names correctly.
Fine-Tuning Browser and Network Settings for Error Prevention
Your browser and network settings play a crucial role in DNS resolution. Incorrect configurations can block DNS resolution, leading to the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error. Here’s how to fine-tune both:
- Clear browser cache: Browsers often cache DNS records to speed up website loading. However, this can lead to issues if the cached data becomes outdated. To clear your browser’s cache:
- In Google Chrome, go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Clear Browsing Data. Check Cached images and files, then click Clear Data.
- For Firefox, go to Options > Privacy & Security > Clear History. Select Cache and click OK.
- Reset browser settings: Resetting browser settings can help resolve configuration issues that affect DNS resolution.
- In Chrome, navigate to Settings > Advanced > Reset Settings > Restore Settings to Their Original Defaults.
- In Firefox, go to Help > Troubleshooting Information > Refresh Firefox.
- Network settings: Check your network configurations, especially proxy and firewall settings. Sometimes, misconfigured proxies or overly strict firewall rules can block DNS requests.
- Disable proxy: Go to Control Panel > Internet Options > Connections > LAN Settings on Windows and uncheck Use a proxy server for your LAN.
- Adjust firewall: Ensure that your firewall is not blocking DNS traffic. Review firewall settings or temporarily disable it to test the connection.
By resetting browser settings and ensuring proper network configuration, you can avoid issues that may prevent proper DNS resolution and lead to the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error.
Using a Reliable Hosting Provider to Ensure Long-Term DNS Stability
A key factor in preventing the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error in the long term is choosing a reliable hosting provider. A stable DNS infrastructure from your hosting provider ensures consistent domain name resolution, minimizing the risk of errors.
When selecting a hosting provider, consider these factors:
- Uptime: Ensure the hosting provider has a strong uptime guarantee (99.9% or higher) to avoid DNS outages.
- DNS support: Choose a provider that offers robust DNS services, including easy DNS record management and fast DNS propagation.
- Redundancy: A good hosting provider should have redundant DNS servers, so if one server fails, another can take over seamlessly.
For instance, SiteGround and Bluehost offer reliable DNS services that minimize resolution issues. You can check the DNS status with these providers using their control panels or support resources to ensure DNS stability.
By selecting a provider with strong DNS support, you can avoid many of the issues that cause the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error, ensuring long-term DNS stability and a smoother browsing experience.
By following these steps, you can prevent the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error and maintain a stable and fast internet experience. Whether you’re adjusting your DNS settings, clearing your cache, or selecting a reliable hosting provider, these actions will significantly reduce the likelihood of DNS-related errors.
What to Do If the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error Persists After Troubleshooting
When the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error fix doesn’t work despite following basic troubleshooting steps, it may be time to dig a little deeper. While initial fixes like clearing your browser cache or resetting your DNS settings might resolve the issue for most users, some problems require more advanced solutions. In this section, we’ll guide you through further steps to troubleshoot the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error, ensuring you can fully restore your internet connection and continue browsing smoothly.
When to Consider Reaching Out for Professional Help
Sometimes, despite all your efforts, the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error fix just won’t work. If you’ve already tried the common solutions, such as checking DNS settings or resetting your router, and the issue persists, it might be time to seek professional help.
For example, if you’re unable to manually change DNS settings or if your network seems to have persistent connectivity issues that can’t be solved by basic troubleshooting, it could indicate a deeper configuration issue. A network specialist or a professional IT service could analyze your system more thoroughly and address underlying issues that require advanced expertise.
If you feel that the problem goes beyond your ability to fix, especially when it involves complex network configurations, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for assistance.
Further Steps for Advanced Users: Reinstalling Network Drivers
For advanced users facing persistent ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED errors, reinstalling network drivers might resolve the issue. This is particularly useful if the problem lies with your network adapter or card. Here’s how to reinstall your network drivers:
For Windows:
- Open the Device Manager (press Win + X and select “Device Manager”).
- Locate Network Adapters and right-click on your active network device.
- Choose Uninstall device.
- Restart your computer, and Windows should automatically reinstall the network driver.
For macOS:
- Go to System Preferences > Network.
- Select your active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
- Click the minus (-) button to remove the network connection.
- Re-add the connection by clicking the plus (+) button and selecting your network interface.
Reinstalling network drivers can help resolve issues with network cards or corrupted driver files that might be causing DNS resolution errors or network connectivity problems.
Backup Solutions and Long-Term DNS Management
For long-term DNS management, it’s essential to implement backup solutions to avoid recurring DNS issues, especially when the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error arises. Setting up a secondary DNS server or switching to a reliable cloud-based DNS service can improve your network’s resilience.
To configure a backup DNS server, follow these steps:
- Open your Network Settings.
- Locate your DNS settings and enter a secondary DNS server address, such as Google’s DNS ( 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 ).
- Alternatively, you can use a cloud-based DNS service like Cloudflare DNS ( 1.1.1.1 ) or OpenDNS.
By setting up DNS redundancy, your network will automatically switch to the backup server in case your primary DNS fails, ensuring that you won’t face DNS resolution errors due to server downtime. This proactive step can significantly enhance your internet stability in the long run.
For further assistance on DNS troubleshooting, you can explore resources such as the Kinsta guide on fixing ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED or the SiteGround knowledge base.