Step-by-Step Guide to Resolving ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED Errors in WordPress
By WordPress Support Team |
When attempting to access a website, you may occasionally encounter an error message stating 'ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED'. This indicates that your web browser cannot locate the IP address associated with the domain name you entered.
Think of it as trying to contact someone whose phone number isn't saved in your directory. You cannot establish a connection because you lack the necessary contact information.
While this error can be frustrating, it is typically straightforward to resolve. Many WordPress experts have identified common causes for this issue and developed effective troubleshooting methods.
This guide will walk you through practical steps to diagnose and fix the 'ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED' error on your WordPress site.
Understanding the 'ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED' Error in WordPress
The internet relies on the Domain Name System (DNS) to simplify navigation. While every website possesses a unique numerical identifier called an IP address, DNS allows users to enter memorable domain names instead.
The DNS server automatically retrieves the IP address linked to that domain name through a process called resolution, then directs you to the appropriate location to view the website.
For instance, when you type a domain name like 'example.com', a DNS server determines that the corresponding IP address is something like '192.0.2.1', and you are seamlessly redirected to that address to access the site.
The 'ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED' error appears when this process encounters a problem and cannot find an IP address for the entered domain name.
Without a valid IP address, your browser cannot locate or display the website. If this affects your own WordPress site, you may be unable to publish new content, apply security updates, or perform other essential administrative tasks.
Depending on your specific situation and web browser, you might encounter similar error messages such as:
- This site can't be reached
- Unable to reach the site
- Could not find the IP address of the server
- Failed to load resource
- The web page is not available
Several common issues can trigger these error messages, requiring systematic troubleshooting. While the problem might originate with the website itself, this error frequently results from incorrect configurations on your local computer.
Fortunately, the error message often provides initial suggestions, such as verifying your internet connection, reviewing firewall settings, and checking DNS configuration.
Let's explore how to resolve the 'ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED' error in WordPress. We recommend beginning with the simplest troubleshooting step and progressing through the following methods:
- Verify Your Internet Connection
- Clear Your Browser Cache
- Clear Your DNS Cache
- Temporarily Disable Firewall and Antivirus Software
- Change Your Computer's DNS Server
- Disable DNSSEC for Your Domain
- Contact Your WordPress Hosting Provider
- Additional Resources on Domain Names and DNS
1. Verify Your Internet Connection
This error often stems from local computer issues. Start with the most basic solution by confirming your active internet connection. Try visiting a popular website like Google.com and performing a search to ensure your connection functions properly.
If you cannot access Google or other sites, the issue likely relates to your internet connection rather than the specific website you're trying to reach.
Ensure all cables are properly connected to your modem and router. Consider restarting your internet connection by unplugging your modem and router from power, waiting at least one minute, then reconnecting them.
If the error persists when attempting to visit the website, proceed to the next troubleshooting step.
2. Clear Your Browser Cache
Your web browser stores temporary copies of downloaded files to accelerate future access. This storage is known as the browser cache.
The cache can become outdated if website content changes after your initial visit. It may also become corrupted over time. When this occurs, clearing the browser cache forces your browser to download fresh files from the website.
This action can sometimes resolve DNS-related issues, including the error message you're experiencing.
Clearing the browser cache is typically straightforward. In Google Chrome, for example, click the three-dot icon in the upper-right corner, select 'More Tools', then choose 'Clear Browsing Data...'
On the popup window, ensure the checkbox next to 'Cached images and files' is selected. Google Chrome typically clears the entire cache by default.
You may want to adjust the 'Time Range' dropdown to delete cached data only from the period when you began experiencing the error.
Select only the data types you wish to delete. While deleting cookies and other site data is generally advisable, you may want to preserve your browsing history by unchecking that option.
When ready, click 'Clear data' to empty the browser cache.
If you use a different browser, consult documentation for clearing cache in that specific browser.
After clearing the cache, attempt to revisit the website to check if the error persists.
3. Clear Your DNS Cache
In addition to caching website content, your computer stores IP addresses of visited sites. This improves efficiency by eliminating repeated IP address lookups.
However, cached DNS information can become outdated, leading to error messages. This may occur if a website has migrated to a new domain name or changed hosting providers.
Clearing your DNS cache forces your browser to perform a fresh lookup for the correct IP address associated with that domain.
Numerous online resources provide comprehensive instructions for clearing DNS cache on Mac, Windows, and Google Chrome systems.
4. Temporarily Disable Firewall and Antivirus Software
Antivirus and firewall applications protect your system by blocking potentially harmful sites. Unfortunately, they may occasionally block legitimate websites.
This can happen if your security software settings are overly restrictive or if the website's configuration triggers security protocols.
Test whether security software is blocking the connection by temporarily disabling these programs. If the website loads successfully afterward, you've identified the cause.
If security software is responsible, avoid permanently disabling it. Instead, explore whitelisting options within the software's settings to permit access to the specific website while maintaining protection against actual threats.
Consult the software's official documentation, support forums, or knowledge base for guidance on configuring whitelist settings. Depending on your license, you may also contact the developer's customer support team for assistance.
5. Change Your Computer's DNS Server
The DNS server you're using to obtain website IP addresses might be experiencing problems. Multiple DNS servers are available, and your internet service provider typically assigns one automatically. Sometimes these servers become unavailable or contain incorrect information.
You can switch to an alternative public DNS server, such as Google Public DNS. Choose carefully, as your DNS provider can monitor visited websites and potentially collect personal data.
Changing DNS Server on Mac
After selecting a DNS server, add it to your DNS settings. On Mac, click the Apple icon in the toolbar and select 'System Preferences...'
Next, select 'Network' from the popup window, then click the 'Advanced...' button.
Now navigate to the 'DNS' tab.
