The ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error while browsing any website indicates that the destination name could not be resolved, and the browser could not find the IP address to match the entered domain name. There are several causes behind the error, and various troubleshooting solutions for fixing the same.

Browsing the internet sometimes comes with a lot of frustrating errors and can lead to a poor user experience especially when you don’t understand what they mean or how to fix them.

One of the most common errors among these is the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error. This typically occurs when the browser is not able to find the server that hosts the website that is being accessed.

The error represents a distinct failure in the process of Domain Name System (DNS) resolution, which is fundamental to how the Internet functions.

In this post, we will explore the details of this error, explore its causes, and outline various ways to fix it.

What is ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error?

The ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error is primarily an issue related to DNS resolution. It typically occurs during the instance when the DNS server finds it difficult to translate the URL of a website into a proper IP address.

DNS is a Domain Name System that facilitates translating a website’s domain name to its IP address. This, in turn, allows users’ browsers to easily connect with other websites’ servers.

Whenever there is an issue with the DNS server or the browser cannot translate the domain name into an IP address, the browser will end up displaying the error message “ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED.”

Also Read: How to Troubleshoot Web Hosting Issues?

Different Causes of ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error

Several causes of the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error can impact the user’s browsing experience. Therefore, it is important to understand these causes to fix the error quickly and effectively.

Some of the key reasons are:

1. Weak Network Connection

A weak or poor internet/network connection can be one of the main causes of this error leading to DNS issues.

If the device you are using is unable to properly connect to the DNS server due to poor network or slow internet connectivity, you will likely encounter an ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error.

2. Outdated or Old DNS Cache

In most cases of internet browsing, the system stores DNS information on a temporary basis in order to speed up the overall browsing experience.

However, if this information is corrupted or outdated, it can prevent you from accessing certain web pages or websites. This old cache, in turn, can cause your browser to not find the correct IP address, leading to this error.

3. Firewall Blockage

Firewalls are primarily there to safeguard your computer from harmful websites and other potential online threats. However, there are times when the firewalls can be overprotective and block proper, legitimate websites.

In such an instance, when your firewall settings are very tight, they might prevent the DNS request from getting completed, leading to this error.

Also Read: How to Install an SSL Certificate? A Simplified Guide

4. Faulty Browser Extensions

In some cases, the browser extensions can interfere with the DNS resolution process, leading to this error.

Likewise, the DNS servers provided by your ISP might not be working properly or are down, causing DNS resolution issues and this error to occur.

Ways to Fix the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error

There are several ways to fix the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error. Among these are:

1. Fix your Internet Connection

The best way to fix the error is by keeping a check on your intеrnеt connеction. When doing so, ensurе network you are using a fast and stablе one.

Also, try to accеss othеr wеbsitеs to determine if the problem is specific to one websitе or impacting all websites equally.

2. Clеar Your DNS Cachе

An outdated DNS cache can cause the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error by storing incorrect website data. Clearing it forces your system to fetch fresh DNS information.

For Windows:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Type: ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.

For Chrome (Browser-Specific):

  1. Go to: chrome://net-internals/#dns
  2. Click “Clear host cache.”

After clearing the cache, restart your browser and try again.

3. Delete All your Browsing Data

Google Chrome is a browser that stores user data from all websites visited previously by default. This stored information or data, in turn, helps web pages load much faster while reloading.

While this feature is quite useful, it can also sometimes lead to the “ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED” error.

One of the best ways to fix this issue is to delete all data from your browser permanently. To do this, open the menu in Chrome and select more tools.

Then, click Clear Browsing Data to get rid of this error.

Pro Tip: Before trying complex solutions, try opening the website in an incognito window or a different browser. This quick check can help determine if the issue is browser-specific, saving you time troubleshooting DNS settings unnecessarily.

To Wrap it Up

The ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error occurs primarily because the system cannot find the correct IP address, or the computer is storing outdated information. The best way to fix the error is to clear the cached data from your system.

You can also fix the error by clearing the DNS cache on the operating system, resetting the firewall and using public DNS servers, adding the website’s IP address to the host file or using a different internet connection.

If none of the above methods help you fix the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error on your website, you should contact your hosting provider’s customer support team for further assistance.

Crazy Domains is a leading hosting solution provider that offers excellent domain and hosting packages for your website. With us, you can take advantage of a range of affordable options available and kickstart your online journey without any errors.

To know more about our tailored solutions, contact us today at 1300 210 210.