ERR_NAME_RESOLUTION_FAILED Error in Chrome: 6 Simple Fixes

The ERR_NAME_RESOLUTION_FAILED error in Chrome usually indicates a problem with your DNS settings or network configuration. Often, you will fix this issue by clearing the browser cache or the internet settings.

How do I fix the ERR_NAME_RESOLUTION_FAILED error?

1. Clear the browsing data

1. Open Google Chrome and click on the three-dot menu at the top right corner.
2. Hover over More tools and then click on Clear browsing data.
3. In the popup window, choose the All time range from the dropdown menu.
4. Check the boxes next to Browsing history, Cookies and other site data, and Cached images and files.
5. Click the Clear data button.

By clearing your browsing data, you remove outdated or corrupted cache files and cookies that might be interfering with Chrome’s ability to load websites. This simple step often resolves many browser-related issues, including the ERR_NAME_RESOLUTION_FAILED error.

2. Reset Chrome’s settings

1. Open Google Chrome and click on the three-dot menu at the top right corner.
2. Go to Settings and click on Reset settings from the left pane.
3. Now, click on Restore settings to their original defaults.
4. A confirmation dialog will appear. Click Reset settings.

Resetting Chrome’s settings removes any unwanted extensions or changes that might have caused the error. This helps you start fresh with a clean configuration, resolving conflicts that might have led to the issue.

3. Change the DNS Address

1. Open Chrome and go to Settings.
2. Go to Privacy and security and click on Security.
3. Scroll down and find the Use secure DNS section.
4. Select the Custom option and enter a DNS address like Google’s (8.8.8.8 or 8.8.4.4), or OpenDNS (208.67.222.222 or 208.67.220.220).

Changing your DNS address can resolve connectivity issues if the default DNS server is experiencing problems. Using a well-known DNS like Google’s or OpenDNS often provides faster and more reliable performance.

4. Reset the network settings

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator by typing cmd in the search bar, right-clicking on Command Prompt, and selecting Run as administrator.
2. Enter the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:
   • ipconfig /release
ipconfig /all
ipconfig /flushdns
ipconfig /renew
netsh int ip set dns
netsh winsock reset

Resetting network settings can help if the issue is related to incorrect or outdated network configurations, ensuring that your computer can properly connect to websites.

5. Check for malware

1. Open Windows Security by typing it in the search bar.
2. Go to Virus & threat protection, then click on Quick scan or Full scan.
3. If any threats are found, follow the on-screen instructions to handle them.

Malware can interfere with network settings, causing the ERR_NAME_RESOLUTION_FAILED error. Scanning your computer removes any malicious software that might be disrupting your internet connection.

6. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

1. Choose a reliable VPN service and download its software.
2. Install the VPN and follow the setup instructions.
3. Connect to a VPN server.

Using a strong VPN, such as ExpressVPN, can help bypass local network issues or ISP restrictions that might be causing the error. However, be mindful that some websites may restrict access when using a VPN.

Additional solutions

1. Restart your router: Sometimes, a simple restart of your router can resolve connectivity issues.
2. Check antivirus settings: Ensure that your antivirus software is not blocking your internet connection.
3. Uninstall problematic programs: If the issue started after installing a new program, try uninstalling it to see if it resolves the problem.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the ERR_NAME_RESOLUTION_FAILED error and restore your internet connectivity. To prevent future issues, regularly update your browser and keep your system free of malware.

Did you manage to fix the ERR_NAME_RESOLUTION_FAILED error using our solutions? Let us know in the comments below.