What Is the Chrome Net Internals DNS Error?
The Chrome Net Internals DNS error occurs when Google Chrome encounters issues resolving a website's domain name. This problem can arise due to cached DNS records, outdated settings, or network misconfigurations. The error can lead to websites failing to load properly, displaying messages like "DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN" or "This site can't be reached."
Why Does This Error Occur?
Several factors can contribute to the Chrome Net Internals DNS error:
Corrupt DNS Cache: Chrome stores DNS records to speed up browsing, but old or incorrect records may cause issues.
ISP or Router Issues: A misconfigured router or ISP-related DNS failures can prevent domain resolution.
Incorrect Chrome Settings: Some experimental Chrome flags or proxy settings can interfere with DNS lookups.
Malware or Security Software: Overprotective firewalls or malware infections may block DNS requests.
How to Clear Chrome Net Internals DNS Error?
1. Flush Chrome's DNS Cache Using net-internals
Chrome provides an internal tool to clear its DNS cache and fix errors. Follow these steps:
Open Google Chrome.
Type chrome://net-internals/#dns in the address bar and press Enter.
Click the "Clear host cache" button to delete stored DNS entries.
Restart Chrome and try reloading the website.
2. Flush the System DNS Cache
If clearing Chrome's cache doesn't work, try flushing your system's DNS cache:
For Windows:
Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
In the command prompt, type:
Press Enter, and you should see "Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache."
Restart Chrome and check if the issue is resolved.
For macOS:
Open Terminal.
Type the following command and press Enter:
sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder |
Enter your password when prompted and restart Chrome.
3. Change Your DNS Server
If the issue persists, switching to a public DNS server like Google DNS or Cloudflare can help.
For Windows:
Open Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
Click on Change adapter settings.
Right-click your active network and select Properties.
Click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
Select Use the following DNS server addresses and enter:
Click OK and restart your browser.
For macOS:
Go to System Preferences > Network.
Select your active connection and click Advanced.
Go to the DNS tab and click the + button to add:
Click OK and restart Chrome.
4. Disable Chrome Extensions & VPNs
Certain browser extensions and VPNs can interfere with DNS resolution. Try disabling them:
Open Chrome > Menu (?) > Extensions.
Disable all extensions and check if the issue is resolved.
If using a VPN, disconnect and restart Chrome.
5. Reset Chrome Flags
Some Chrome experimental settings can cause DNS errors. Reset them to default:
Type chrome://flags/ in the address bar and press Enter.
Click Reset all to default.
Restart Chrome.
Final Thoughts
Clearing the Chrome Net Internals DNS error is straightforward using the built-in net-internals tool and system-level DNS flushing. If the issue persists, switching to a public DNS, disabling problematic extensions, or resetting Chrome's settings can help. Keeping your system updated and using a reliable internet connection also ensures smooth browsing.