Domain Not Resolving: Common Causes and Fixes (2025)

Quick Answer

Understanding Domain Resolution

Before diving into solutions, it's helpful to understand what happens when a domain "resolves" properly. Domain resolution is the process where your domain name (like example.com) gets translated into an IP address (like 192.0.2.1) that computers use to locate your website.

The Domain Resolution Process

When someone types your domain into their browser, this happens:

1. Browser checks local cache - Has this domain been visited recently?
2. Query to DNS resolver - Your ISP's DNS server is asked for the IP address
3. Recursive lookup - The resolver queries root servers, TLD servers, and authoritative nameservers
4. IP address returned - The correct IP is sent back to the browser
5. Connection established - Browser connects to the server hosting your website

When any step in this chain breaks down, you experience a "domain not resolving" error.

Common Error Messages

You might see various error messages indicating resolution failure:

• "This site can't be reached"
• "DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN"
• "ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED"
• "Server DNS address could not be found"
• "DNS server not responding"

All these errors point to the same fundamental issue: the DNS system cannot translate your domain name into an IP address.

Common Causes of Domain Resolution Failures

Understanding why domains fail to resolve helps you fix the problem faster. Here are the most frequent causes:

1. Incorrect or Missing DNS Records

What happens: Your domain's DNS zone lacks the necessary A records pointing to your server's IP address, or the records contain wrong information.

Why it matters: Without proper A records, DNS servers don't know which IP address corresponds to your domain.

Typical scenarios:

• Recently changed hosting providers and forgot to update DNS
• Deleted records accidentally in DNS management panel
• Misspelled domain name in DNS configuration
• Wrong IP address in A record

2. Misconfigured Nameservers

What happens: Your domain registrar shows incorrect nameserver addresses, or the nameservers aren't responding.

Why it matters: Nameservers are the authoritative source for your domain's DNS information. If they're wrong, the entire resolution chain fails.

Typical scenarios:

• Registrar reset nameservers to default after transfer
• Changed hosting but didn't update nameservers at registrar
• Typo in nameserver addresses
• Nameserver hostnames don't exist

3. DNS Propagation Delays

What happens: You recently made DNS changes, but they haven't reached all DNS servers worldwide yet.

Why it matters: DNS changes can take 24-48 hours to propagate globally. During this time, some visitors may see your site while others cannot.

Typical scenarios:

• Just changed nameservers
• Updated A records within last 48 hours
• Transferred domain to new registrar
• Modified DNS records with high TTL values

4. Expired or Suspended Domain

What happens: Your domain registration has lapsed, or your registrar suspended the domain for policy violations.

Why it matters: Expired domains are removed from active DNS, making them completely unreachable.

Typical scenarios:

• Missed renewal payment
• Credit card on file expired
• Domain flagged for abuse or trademark violation
• Registrar account suspended

5. DNSSEC Configuration Issues

What happens: DNSSEC (DNS Security Extensions) is enabled but incorrectly configured, causing validation failures.

Why it matters: When DNSSEC validation fails, some DNS resolvers will refuse to return any results for security reasons.

Typical scenarios:

• Enabled DNSSEC without proper configuration
• Changed nameservers but didn't update DS records
• DNSSEC keys expired or rotated incorrectly

6. Local DNS Cache Problems

What happens: Your computer or network has cached outdated DNS information.

Why it matters: Even if you fixed DNS settings, your local system might still use old, incorrect information from its cache.

Typical scenarios:

• Made DNS changes but still seeing errors on your computer
• Other people can access your site, but you cannot
• Site works on mobile data but not WiFi

7. Firewall or Network Issues

What happens: Firewalls, security software, or network configurations block DNS queries.

Why it matters: If DNS queries can't reach DNS servers, resolution is impossible.

Typical scenarios:

• Corporate network with restrictive DNS policies
• Antivirus/firewall blocking DNS ports (53)
• ISP DNS servers experiencing outages
• Router misconfiguration

How to Diagnose the Problem

Before applying fixes, identify what's actually wrong. Use these diagnostic steps:

Check Domain Status

First, verify your domain is active and not expired:

1. Go to your domain registrar's website
2. Log into your account
3. Check domain status and expiration date
4. Verify domain shows "Active" or "OK" status

Test DNS Resolution

Use online tools to check if DNS is working globally:

Recommended tools:

• WhatsMyDNS.net - Shows DNS records from multiple locations worldwide
• DNSChecker.org - Tests propagation across different geographic regions
• MXToolbox - Comprehensive DNS lookup and diagnostic tools

What to look for:

• Does the domain resolve at all?
• Do different locations show different results?
• Are the IP addresses correct?

Verify Nameservers

Check that nameservers are correctly configured:

1. At your registrar - Login and view nameserver settings
2. Use WHOIS lookup - Search your domain to see registered nameservers
3. Compare with hosting provider - Ensure they match what your host requires

Check DNS Records

Examine your DNS zone configuration:

1. Log into your DNS provider (often your hosting provider)
2. Look for A records pointing to your domain
3. Verify IP addresses are correct
4. Check for any obvious typos or missing records

Test from Different Locations

Determine if the issue is local or global:

• Try another device - Phone, tablet, different computer
• Use mobile data - Switch from WiFi to cellular
• Ask someone else - Have someone in another location try accessing your domain
• Use a VPN - Connect through different geographic locations

Step-by-Step Solutions

Based on your diagnosis, apply these solutions in order:

Solution 1: Flush DNS Cache

Clear cached DNS information from your system:

Windows:

Press Windows + R
Type: cmd
Press Enter
Type: ipconfig /flushdns
Press Enter

macOS:

Open Terminal
Type: sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
Press Enter
Enter your password

Linux:

sudo systemd-resolve --flush-caches

Browser cache:

• Chrome: Settings → Privacy and Security → Clear browsing data → Cached images and files
• Firefox: Settings → Privacy & Security → Cookies and Site Data → Clear Data

Solution 2: Verify and Update Nameservers

Ensure nameservers are correctly configured:

Steps:

1. Get correct nameserver addresses from your hosting provider
2. Log into your domain registrar account
3. Navigate to domain management/DNS settings
4. Update nameserver fields with correct addresses
5. Save changes
6. Wait 4-24 hours for propagation

Common nameserver formats:

• ns1.yourhost.com, ns2.yourhost.com
• Usually 2-4 nameservers required
• Must be exactly as provided by your host

Solution 3: Check and Fix DNS Records

Correct any issues in your DNS zone:

Steps:

1. Log into DNS management panel (hosting control panel or DNS provider)
2. Locate A record for @ or your naked domain
3. Verify IP address matches your server's IP
4. If wrong, update to correct IP address
5. Ensure you also have A record for www subdomain
6. Save changes
7. Wait for propagation (TTL value determines how long)

Required DNS records for basic site:

Type: A
Name: @
Value: Your server IP (e.g., 192.0.2.1)
TTL: 3600

Type: A
Name: www
Value: Your server IP (e.g., 192.0.2.1)
TTL: 3600

Solution 4: Wait for DNS Propagation

If you recently made changes, patience is required:

Propagation timeline:

• Minimum: 1-2 hours for some servers
• Typical: 4-8 hours for most of the world
• Maximum: 24-48 hours for complete global propagation

During propagation:

• Some visitors will see new settings
• Others will still see old settings
• This is normal and will resolve itself
• You cannot speed up the process

Check propagation status: Use WhatsMyDNS.net to monitor how many servers have updated

Solution 5: Verify Domain Not Expired

Check and renew if necessary:

Steps:

1. Log into domain registrar
2. Check domain expiration date
3. If expired, renew immediately
4. Processing can take 1-24 hours after renewal
5. DNS will restore once domain is active again

Grace period: Most registrars provide 30-day grace period after expiration where you can renew without penalty.

Solution 6: Disable DNSSEC (If Problematic)

If DNSSEC is causing issues:

Steps:

1. Log into domain registrar
2. Find DNSSEC settings
3. Disable DNSSEC or remove DS records
4. Wait 1-2 hours for changes to propagate
5. Test domain resolution
6. If resolved, reconfigure DNSSEC properly or leave disabled

Note: Only disable DNSSEC if you confirmed it's causing the issue. Properly configured DNSSEC enhances security.

Solution 7: Try Different DNS Servers

Test if the issue is with your ISP's DNS:

Switch to public DNS servers:

Google Public DNS:

• Primary: 8.8.8.8
• Secondary: 8.8.4.4

Cloudflare DNS:

• Primary: 1.1.1.1
• Secondary: 1.0.0.1

How to change DNS on Windows:

1. Control Panel → Network and Internet → Network Connections
2. Right-click your connection → Properties
3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)
4. Click Properties
5. Select "Use the following DNS server addresses"
6. Enter DNS server addresses
7. Click OK

How to change DNS on macOS:

1. System Preferences → Network
2. Select your connection → Advanced
3. DNS tab
4. Click + to add DNS servers
5. Enter DNS addresses
6. Click OK

Advanced Troubleshooting

For persistent issues, try these advanced techniques:

Use Command-Line Diagnostic Tools

nslookup (Windows, macOS, Linux):

nslookup yourdomain.com

This shows what IP address your DNS resolver returns for your domain.

dig (macOS, Linux):

dig yourdomain.com

Provides detailed DNS query information including nameservers, response times, and record details.

Expected results:

• Should return an IP address in the ANSWER section
• If you get "NXDOMAIN" - domain doesn't exist in DNS
• If timeout - DNS servers not responding

Check Authoritative Nameservers Directly

Query your nameservers directly to see if they have correct information:

dig @ns1.yourhost.com yourdomain.com

This bypasses caching and shows exactly what your authoritative nameserver is serving.

Examine TTL Values

High TTL (Time To Live) values mean DNS changes take longer to propagate:

• Check current TTL values in DNS records
• Lower TTL to 300-600 seconds (5-10 minutes) before making changes
• Make your changes
• Wait for old TTL period to expire
• Raise TTL back to normal (3600-86400)

Verify Glue Records

For custom nameservers using your own domain (like ns1.yourdomain.com):

1. Check that glue records exist at your registrar
2. Glue records are A records that tell DNS where your nameservers are located
3. Without proper glue records, circular dependency prevents resolution
4. Contact registrar support to verify/fix glue records

Check for DNS Hijacking

Ensure your domain's DNS hasn't been maliciously altered:

1. Verify nameservers match what you set
2. Check WHOIS data for unexpected changes
3. Review DNS records for unauthorized modifications
4. Enable registrar lock to prevent unauthorized transfers
5. Use two-factor authentication on registrar account

Prevention Best Practices

Avoid future resolution issues with these practices:

1. Enable Auto-Renewal

Why: Prevents accidental expiration

How:

• Enable auto-renewal in registrar account
• Keep payment method current
• Set calendar reminders 30 days before expiration

2. Monitor DNS Health

Why: Catch issues before users report them

How:

• Use uptime monitoring services (UptimeRobot, Pingdom)
• Set up alerts for DNS resolution failures
• Periodically check DNS records for accuracy

3. Lower TTL Before DNS Changes

Why: Allows faster propagation of changes

How:

• 24-48 hours before making DNS changes, lower TTL to 300 seconds
• Make your changes
• Wait for old TTL period to pass
• Restore TTL to normal values (3600-14400)

4. Document Your DNS Configuration

Why: Makes troubleshooting and changes easier

What to document:

• Current nameserver addresses
• All DNS record types and values
• When changes were made
• TTL values
• Hosting provider contact information

5. Use Reliable DNS Providers

Why: Reduces DNS-related downtime

Characteristics of good DNS providers:

• Multiple redundant nameservers
• Global Anycast network
• DDoS protection
• 99.99%+ uptime guarantee
• Fast DNS propagation

Recommended providers: Cloudflare DNS, Amazon Route 53, Google Cloud DNS, DNS Made Easy

6. Enable Registrar Lock

Why: Prevents unauthorized DNS changes

How:

• Enable domain lock/transfer lock in registrar
• Prevents accidental or malicious nameserver changes
• Must unlock before intentional transfers

7. Keep Contact Information Current

Why: Ensures you receive important renewal and security notices

How:

• Regularly verify email address on file
• Update phone number if changed
• Check registrar account quarterly

When to Contact Support

Some situations require professional assistance:

Contact Your Hosting Provider If:

• DNS records are correct but site still not resolving
• You're unsure what nameservers to use
• Need help configuring DNS records
• Server IP address changed and you need the new one

Contact Your Domain Registrar If:

• Cannot access registrar account
• Domain shows as suspended or locked
• Nameserver changes aren't saving
• Need assistance with DNSSEC configuration
• Domain appears expired but was set to auto-renew

Contact Both If:

• You recently transferred hosting and domain simultaneously
• Complex DNS setup with multiple providers
• Site worked fine, then suddenly stopped with no changes made

Information to Provide Support:

1. Domain name
2. When the issue started
3. Error messages you're seeing
4. Changes made recently (if any)
5. Results from diagnostic tools (nslookup, dig)
6. Screenshots of error messages
7. Whether issue is global or local to you

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for DNS to resolve after fixing issues?

If you fixed the actual problem (corrected DNS records or nameservers), resolution depends on propagation time. Local changes (flushing your DNS cache) work immediately. Nameserver changes take 4-48 hours to propagate globally. Most users will see resolution within 8-12 hours. You can monitor propagation progress using tools like WhatsMyDNS.net.

Why does my domain work for others but not for me?

This typically indicates a local caching issue. Your computer or network has cached old DNS information, while others are getting fresh, correct data. Flush your DNS cache (ipconfig /flushdns on Windows, sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder on Mac), clear browser cache, restart your router, or try a different network (like mobile data) to confirm.

Can I speed up DNS propagation?

No, you cannot force global DNS propagation to happen faster. DNS propagation depends on TTL (Time To Live) values and how often each DNS server refreshes its cache. However, you can prepare: lower your TTL values 24-48 hours before making changes, which allows servers to refresh more frequently after you make updates.

My domain resolved yesterday but not today. What happened?

Sudden resolution failures after working properly often indicate: (1) Domain expired overnight - check renewal status, (2) Someone changed DNS settings accidentally - review recent changes, (3) Hosting provider issue - server down or IP changed, (4) DNS provider outage - check their status page, or (5) DNS attack or hijacking - verify nameservers haven't been altered.

Should I use my registrar's nameservers or my hosting provider's?

Use your hosting provider's nameservers if they provide DNS management with your hosting plan. This keeps everything in one place and often provides better performance. Use your registrar's nameservers only if: (1) You're using email services separate from web hosting and need centralized DNS management, (2) Your registrar offers premium DNS features you want, or (3) Your host doesn't provide DNS management.

What's the difference between nameservers and DNS records?

Nameservers are like the "phone book keeper" - they're the authoritative source that tells the internet where to find your domain's DNS information. DNS records are the actual "phone book entries" - they contain specific information like which IP address your domain points to, where email should be delivered, etc. You update nameservers at your domain registrar, and you update DNS records at wherever your nameservers are hosted.

Will domain resolution issues affect my email?

Yes, if your domain isn't resolving, email delivery will also fail. Email uses MX (Mail Exchanger) DNS records to find your mail server, and if DNS lookups fail entirely, email cannot be delivered. You may receive bounce-back messages saying "Domain not found" or similar errors. Fix domain resolution issues to restore both website and email functionality.

Is it safe to use public DNS servers like Google or Cloudflare?

Yes, public DNS servers from reputable providers (Google 8.8.8.8, Cloudflare 1.1.1.1) are safe and often faster than ISP-provided DNS. They can help diagnose whether resolution issues are specific to your ISP's DNS servers. Both Google and Cloudflare have strong privacy policies. However, using them only changes where your computer looks up DNS information - it doesn't affect your domain's actual DNS configuration.

Key Takeaways

• Domain resolution translates domain names into IP addresses - When this process fails, your website becomes unreachable even though your server may be running fine
• Most common causes are incorrect DNS records, wrong nameservers, or propagation delays - Check these first before investigating more complex issues
• DNS changes take time to propagate globally - Allow 24-48 hours for nameserver changes to reach all DNS servers worldwide
• Flush DNS cache to clear old information - Your computer or network may be using cached, outdated DNS data even after you fix the actual problem
• Use diagnostic tools to identify the specific issue - Tools like nslookup, dig, and online DNS checkers show exactly where the resolution chain is breaking
• Prevention is easier than troubleshooting - Enable auto-renewal, use reliable DNS providers, and monitor your DNS health proactively
• Document your DNS configuration - Keep records of nameservers, DNS records, and when changes were made to simplify future troubleshooting

Next Steps

Now that you understand domain resolution issues, take these actions:

1. Run Diagnostics: Use WhatsMyDNS.net or MXToolbox to check your domain's current DNS status and identify any issues
2. Verify Your DNS Settings: Log into your registrar and hosting accounts to confirm nameservers and DNS records are correctly configured
3. Set Up Monitoring: Implement uptime monitoring to receive alerts if your domain stops resolving in the future

Need to check your DNS configuration? Use our RDAP Lookup Tool to view your domain's current registration data and nameserver settings.

Helpful Tools and Resources

DomainDetails.com Tools

• RDAP Lookup - Check domain registration details and nameserver configuration
• WHOIS History - View historical DNS changes to identify when issues started
• Registry Information - Understand your TLD's specific DNS requirements

External Diagnostic Tools

• WhatsMyDNS.net - Global DNS propagation checker
• MXToolbox.com - Comprehensive DNS diagnostic suite
• DNSChecker.org - Multi-location DNS resolution testing
• IntoDNS.com - Detailed DNS health report

Was this article helpful? Let us know if you successfully resolved your domain issue or if you need additional assistance.

Article References:

• Cloudflare - Common DNS Issues
• Microsoft Learn - DNS Troubleshooting
• Google Public DNS - Domain Troubleshooting
• Hostinger - DNS Server Not Responding
• Bluehost - DNS Troubleshooting Guide