How to Fix the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error?

When browsing the web, encountering errors like ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED can be frustrating, as it indicates that your browser cannot reach a website’s server. While it may seem complicated, there are simple steps you can take to fix it and prevent future occurrences. Let’s explore why this error occurs and how to address it.

What is the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error?

The ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error is a common issue when the DNS (Domain Name System) cannot resolve the domain name you’re trying to reach. Essentially, your browser cannot convert the domain name (e.g., example.com) into an IP address, making it impossible to access the site. You might have seen the message “This site can’t be reached” alongside this error.

Other related errors like ERR_CONNECTION_RESET, ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED, or ERR_SSL_PROTOCOL_ERROR can also occur. These indicate broader connection issues, but the focus here is on ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED.

Common Causes of the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error

Several factors can trigger the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error. Let’s explore the most common causes:

1. DNS Configuration Issues

Incorrect or outdated DNS settings are one of the leading causes of the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error. Your computer or device might be set to use a DNS server that is no longer functioning or the DNS settings could have been misconfigured.

2. Internet Connectivity Problems

Network-related issues can disrupt DNS resolution. If your internet connection is slow or unstable, it may prevent the DNS lookup process, causing the net err_name_not_resolved error.

3. Browser Cache Problems

Browsers store DNS information in their cache to speed up future website visits. However, if the cached data becomes outdated, your browser may use incorrect DNS information, leading to the err name not resolved the error.

4. Incorrect Domain Name

Sometimes, the issue can be as simple as an incorrect domain name. A typo in the domain name you’re entering or a mistakenly saved wrong URL can lead to this error. For example, trying to reach “examplle.com” instead of “example.com” would fail to connect.

How to Fix the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error?

Now that we’ve covered the potential causes, here are some solutions to fix the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error:

1. Check Domain Name

Start by entering the correct domain name in the address bar. Double-check for any typos or misconfigured settings. A wrongly typed domain name is one of this error’s simplest yet most overlooked causes.

2. Flush DNS Cache

Outdated DNS information in your system’s cache can also cause problems. Flushing the DNS cache forces your computer to re-fetch DNS information from scratch. Here’s how to flush DNS:

For Windows:

1. Open Command Prompt (Admin).
2. Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.

For Mac:

1. Open the Terminal.
2. Type sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder and press Enter.

3. Clear Browser Cache

If flushing the DNS cache didn’t work, clearing your browser cache might help. Cached data in the browser can sometimes conflict with current DNS settings. Here’s how you can clear the cache in Chrome:

1. Click on the three dots in the top-right corner of Chrome.
2. Click “Clear browsing data,” or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + Del.

4. Change DNS Servers

If your current DNS server is slow or frequently unresponsive, consider switching to a more reliable public DNS service, such as Google DNS or OpenDNS.

For Windows:

1. Open Network and Sharing Center.
2. Click on your active connection and go to Properties.
3. Besides the DNS server assignment, click Edit.
4. Choose Use the following DNS server addresses and input the following:
   • Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
   • OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220

For Mac:

1. Open System Preferences > Network.
2. Select your active network and click Advanced.
3. Go to the DNS tab and add the DNS addresses above.

5. Restart Router/Modem

Sometimes, just rebooting your router or modem can resolve DNS resolution problems. Restart your network equipment to refresh the connection, and then try reaccessing the website.

6. Disable Firewall or Antivirus Temporarily

Sometimes, firewalls and antivirus software can interfere with DNS resolution. Temporarily disabling these programs can help identify if they are causing the err_name_not_resolved fix. If the error disappears after disabling the firewall, you may need to adjust the security settings.

Preventing Future ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Errors

To prevent encountering the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error in the future, consider the following tips:

1. Keep DNS Settings Updated

Ensure your device always uses up-to-date and reliable DNS settings. Regularly verify that your DNS configurations remain correct and haven’t changed unexpectedly.

2. Regular Network Maintenance

Conduct regular diagnostics on your network equipment, including your router, modem, and computer. This helps prevent minor issues from snowballing into larger problems.

Conclusion

The ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error can be frustrating, but thankfully, it’s often easy to fix. You can quickly resolve the problem by checking your domain name, flushing the DNS cache, clearing your browser cache, or changing your DNS servers. Routine network maintenance and updating DNS settings can also help prevent future occurrences. And remember, if all else fails, don’t hesitate to restart your router or temporarily disable security software.

Vodien offers DNS management services, helping businesses ensure that their DNS configurations remain up-to-date, secure, and efficient. For more information, check out services from Vodien.

FAQs on Fixing an ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error

Is the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error a Very Common Problem?

The ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error is relatively common and typically related to DNS issues or incorrect domain names.

How to Prevent an ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error?

To avoid this error, regularly update your DNS settings, maintain stable internet connectivity, and ensure you enter the correct domain names.

What Does It Indicate When a Name is Not Resolved?

A “name not resolved” error means that the DNS lookup failed, preventing your browser from converting the domain name into an IP address.

What is the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error on an Android Phone?

The ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error occurs on Android phones when the DNS server can’t resolve the domain name. Fixes include checking your internet connection, clearing the browser cache, or changing your DNS settings.

What Can Be the API ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error?

API calls that rely on external servers may trigger the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error if the DNS server fails to resolve the domain. This occurs due to network issues or incorrect API endpoint configurations.

How Do I Fix the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Error in Chrome?

To fix the err_name_not_resolved error in Chrome, verify the domain name, flush the DNS cache, clear your browser cache, or switch to a reliable DNS server. You may also try restarting your network equipment or temporarily disabling any firewalls.