ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED is a common error message that typically occurs when a web browser is unable to resolve a website’s domain name to an IP address. 

Essentially, your browser can't convert the site name (such as www.example.com) into the real number (the IP address) that instructs your computer where to find the site. So, it's stuck and can't connect. This can be annoying, particularly if it's your website that's showing this. Typically, it occurs when there's an issue in the way your domain name is configured or a glitch in your internet connection.

Causes of ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED

There are a handful of common culprits behind this problem.

1. DNS configuration problems. Your DNS server might be down or incorrectly configured, and your browser won't be able to translate the domain name into an IP address.
2. Incorrect DNS settings. Sometimes, the website's address information (DNS records) is simply incorrect. Perhaps it's an old address that hasn't been updated after a website move, or there was an error during setup.
3. Expired domain. If your domain has expired or is not renewed properly, the DNS may not have an active domain to resolve.
4. Network issues. If your own internet connection is unstable or your local network is not properly configured, your computer may be unable to reach the DNS server to even ask for the website's address.
5. Browser cache. Occasionally, the cached information on a browser may cause this problem, particularly when there have been recent changes to the website’s DNS records.

How ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED works

This error occurs when a DNS lookup fails. Here's how it works.

1. You enter a web address (domain name), such as "myawesomesite.com".
2. Your computer sends a request to a DNS server to convert that domain name (e.g., www.example.com) into an IP address that the browser can use to access the server.
3. The DNS server searches its records for the address.
4. If everything is correct, the DNS server returns the IP address.
5. Your browser uses that IP address to connect to the server of the website and display the page to you.

How to fix ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED

If you are experiencing this error, these are some steps you can take to resolve it.

1. Verify your DNS settings. If it's your own website, ensure that the DNS settings are accurate, particularly if you have recently altered your hosting or DNS provider. Double-check A-records and CNAME records.
2. Clear browser cache. Your browser might be holding onto outdated information. Clearing its cache will enable it to fetch new data.
3. Check for domain expiry. For your own website, visit the website of your domain registrar and see if your domain name has expired and needs to be renewed.
4. Flush DNS cache. Your computer also saves website addresses temporarily. Sometimes, clearing this "local DNS cache" can make a difference. On Windows, you can open the Command Prompt and type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
5. Use a different DNS server. If the issue persists, you can try other DNS servers, such as the free ones provided by Google (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1). They are typically quite stable.
6. Check your network connection. If you're experiencing this error on most websites, ensure your internet is properly working and that your home network settings are properly configured.
7. Test on another device. Check if you are able to open the site on your phone or another device. This might enable you to determine whether the issue is on your particular device or otherwise.

Real-world examples

1. Personal website. If your personal blog suddenly shows "ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED," you'd want to log in to where you manage your domain name and double-check that the settings pointing to your blog's hosting are still correct and that you've paid your domain renewal fee.
2. Business website. If your company's website is showing this error after you switched web hosting providers, it's crucial to verify that the new DNS records provided by your new host have been entered correctly with your domain registrar.

FAQs about ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED

Why does ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED happen? 

Usually because the browser can't find the website's "address" (IP address) due to problems with the internet's address book (DNS), incorrect website setup, an expired website name, or issues with your internet connection.

How can I prevent ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED? 

Regularly check your website name's registration, make sure your website's address settings (DNS) are correct, and use reliable DNS services.

Can ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED be caused by my internet connection? 

Yes, if your internet is unstable or not configured properly, your computer might not be able to communicate with the DNS servers to find website addresses.

What can I do if my website shows ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED? 

Follow the troubleshooting steps mentioned earlier, like checking your DNS settings, clearing caches, and trying different DNS servers.

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