When you attempt to access a website, you may encounter an error message stating ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’. This indicates that your web browser is unable to locate the IP address corresponding to the domain name you entered.
It’s similar to trying to contact someone whose phone number you don’t have saved. Without the correct number, you can’t reach them.
Although this error can be annoying, it is generally straightforward to resolve. Throughout the years, we have identified several causes for this issue and developed effective steps to troubleshoot and fix it.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of troubleshooting and resolving the ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ error in WordPress with ease.
What Triggers the ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ Error in WordPress?
The internet relies on a domain name system (DNS) to simplify navigation. Each website is identified by a unique IP address, but DNS allows you to enter a more memorable domain name instead.
The DNS server will automatically look up (or resolve) the IP address linked to that domain name, allowing you to access the website.
For instance, when you enter the domain name CanadaCreate.com, a DNS server locates the necessary IP address for you to access the website, 104.18.10.41, allowing you to view our site seamlessly.
The ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ error occurs when there is an issue with this process, preventing your browser from finding the IP address associated with the domain name you entered.
Without an IP address, your browser cannot locate or display the website. If this is your own WordPress site, you will be unable to add new content, install security updates, or make other essential modifications.
Depending on your specific circumstances and the web browser in use, you might encounter similar error messages such as:
- This site can’t be reached
- Unable to access the site
- Could not resolve the server’s IP address
- Failed to load resource
- The webpage is unavailable
Several common issues can lead to these error messages, so it’s important to troubleshoot the problem. While the website itself may have issues, this error is often due to incorrect settings on your device.
Fortunately, the error message may provide suggestions for troubleshooting, such as verifying your internet connection, checking firewall settings, and reviewing DNS configurations.
Let’s explore how to resolve the ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ error in WordPress. We suggest starting with the first troubleshooting step, as it is the simplest, and then proceed through our comprehensive guide.
- Verify Your Internet Connection
- Clear Your Browser’s Cache
- Flush Your DNS Cache
- Temporarily Disable Your Firewall and Antivirus Software
- Change Your Computer’s DNS Server
- Disable DNSSEC for Your Domain
- Reach Out to Your WordPress Hosting Provider
- Helpful Guides on Domain Names and DNS
1. Verify Your Internet Connection
This error is frequently caused by an issue on your device. Let’s begin with the simplest solution: ensure that you are connected to the internet. You can visit Google.com and perform a search to confirm your connection is active.
If you cannot access Google or other websites, the issue lies with your internet connection, not the website you are attempting to reach.
Ensure that the cables are securely connected to your modem and router. Additionally, try restarting your internet connection by unplugging your modem and router from the power source, waiting at least one minute, and then turning them back on.
If the error message persists when you attempt to access the website, proceed to the next step.
2. Clear Your Browser Cache
Your web browser stores a temporary copy of all downloaded files to speed up future access. This storage is known as the browser cache.
The cache may become outdated if the website content changes after your initial visit. It can also become corrupted over time. When this occurs, you need to clear the browser cache to ensure the latest files are downloaded from the website.
Clearing the cache can often fix DNS-related issues, including the DNS error message you are encountering.
Fortunately, clearing the browser cache is a simple process. For instance, in Google Chrome, click the three-dot icon in the top-right corner, then select ‘More Tools’ followed by ‘Clear Browsing Data…’.
In the popup window, make sure to check the box next to ‘Cached images and files’. By default, Google Chrome will clear the entire cache.
To target specific data, you may want to adjust the ‘Time Range’ dropdown to delete cached files only from the period when you experienced the error.
Ensure you select only the boxes for the data you wish to delete. For instance, it’s advisable to remove cookies and other site data, but if you prefer to retain your browsing history, make sure to leave that box unchecked.
Once you’re ready, click on ‘Clear data’ and Google Chrome will remove the browser cache.
If you’re using a different browser, please refer to our beginner’s guide on how to clear the browser cache across various browsers.
Now, try revisiting the website to check if the error message persists.
3. Clear Your DNS Cache
In addition to caching the content of the websites you visit, your computer also saves their IP addresses. This process speeds up browsing since the browser doesn’t need to repeatedly look up the same IP address.
However, outdated cached DNS information can result in error messages. For example, the stored IP data may be incorrect if the website has changed to a new domain name or switched hosting providers.
You can clear your DNS cache to prompt your browser to look up the correct IP address for that domain name once more.
To assist you, we have developed a comprehensive guide on how to clear your DNS cache for Mac, Windows, and Google Chrome.
4. Temporarily Disable Your Firewall and Antivirus Software
Antivirus and firewall plugins are designed to protect you by blocking potentially harmful websites. However, they may also mistakenly block legitimate sites.
This issue may arise if your security plugin settings are overly restrictive or if the website is configured in a way that activates these security measures.
To determine if a firewall or antivirus program is obstructing your connection, try temporarily disabling the software. If the website loads successfully afterward, it indicates that the antivirus or firewall was the issue.
If you identify them as the source of the problem, we advise against permanently disabling the software. Instead, consider adding the website to the whitelist in the software’s settings to maintain protection against real threats while accessing the site.
For assistance with locating these settings, refer to the software’s official documentation, community forums, or social media channels for guidance.
Depending on your software license, you may also reach out for support by contacting the developer or their customer service team.
5. Update the DNS Server Settings on Your Computer
There could be an issue with the DNS server responsible for resolving the website’s IP address. Various DNS servers are available, and your internet service provider (ISP) typically assigns one automatically. Occasionally, the server may be down or provide incorrect information.
Consider switching to an alternative public DNS server, such as Google Public DNS. Choose wisely, as the DNS provider can monitor your web activity and may collect personal data.
How to Change Your DNS Server on Mac
Once you’ve selected a DNS server, you need to configure it in your DNS settings. On a Mac, click the ‘Apple’ icon in the toolbar and select ‘System Preferences…’.
Next, choose ‘Network’ from the options and click on the ‘Advanced…’ button.
Now, navigate to the ‘DNS’ tab.
In the bottom-left corner, click the ‘+’ button.
This will add a new DNS server with a default IP address of 0.0.0.0.
You can now enter the IP address of the public DNS server you wish to use. For instance, Google’s public DNS IP addresses are 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4.
After entering the IP address, be sure to click the ‘OK’ button to save your changes.
This will return you to the previous menu.
To begin using your new DNS server, simply click the ‘Apply’ button.
You are now ready to visit the website to check if the error message has been resolved.
How to Change Your DNS Server on Windows
If you are using a Windows computer, open the Windows Search Box from the taskbar and type ‘ncpa.cpl’ to access the Network Connections page.
Once there, right-click on the internet connection you are currently using.
Next, select ‘Properties’ from the drop-down menu. You may be prompted to enter an administrator password. If you don’t have the password, please contact your IT department or computer administrator.
Now, the ‘Properties’ window should be displayed.
Double-click on ‘Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)’ from the list.
This will open a new window where you need to enable two settings by checking their boxes: ‘Obtain an IP address automatically’ and ‘Use the following DNS server addresses’.
Now, enter the DNS addresses for your public DNS server. For Google’s public DNS, use the IP addresses 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4.
Remember to click the ‘OK’ button at the bottom to save your changes.
After restarting your computer, check your website to see if the error has been fixed.
6. Turn Off DNSSEC for Your Domain
The ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ error can sometimes occur due to issues with your website. If your WordPress blog is experiencing this error, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take.
For instance, if you have activated DNSSEC, disabling it may resolve the issue.
DNSSEC, or Domain Name System Security Extensions, adds an additional layer of security by safeguarding your DNS records from unauthorized access.
However, it can also hinder proper domain propagation, potentially leading to the ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ error.
You can disable DNSSEC through your web hosting account. The process varies by hosting provider, so we will demonstrate how to do this using Bluehost.
In Bluehost, locate the DNSSEC option in the Advanced Tools section under Domains. Simply switch the ‘DNSSEC’ option to off.
If you require assistance with disabling DNSSEC, contact your hosting provider for support.
If you continue to encounter the ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ error after disabling DNSSEC and following all troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, it’s advisable to reach out to your hosting provider’s support team for professional assistance.
7. Reach Out to Your WordPress Hosting Provider
If you are still unable to access your website after completing the previous steps, it may be temporarily down or facing server-related issues.
If the website belongs to someone else, your only option is to wait until it becomes accessible again.
However, if you are facing the ‘ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED’ error while trying to access your own website, it’s important to contact your hosting provider for assistance.
They can help you resolve any technical issues, incorrect configurations, unpaid bills, or other factors that may be causing your website to be inaccessible.
Helpful Guides on Domain Names and DNS
Now that you understand how to troubleshoot and resolve the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error in WordPress, you might find these additional guides on domain names and DNS useful:
- Beginner’s Guide: Understanding Domain Names and How They Function
- Tips for Selecting the Perfect Domain Name
- How to Clear Your DNS Cache on Mac, Windows, and Chrome
- A Simple Guide to Changing Domain Nameservers and Redirecting to a New Host
- Steps to Resolve the DNS Server Not Responding Error in WordPress
- How to Fix the ‘This Site Can’t Be Reached’ Error in WordPress
We hope this tutorial has helped you resolve the ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED error in WordPress. For more assistance, check out our comprehensive guide on troubleshooting WordPress issues or our article on common WordPress errors and their solutions.
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