Google Chrome is one of the best web browsers for internet surfing. However, being best doesn’t mean it’s error free. Like Firefox, Safari or Bing, Chrome users also face many errors. The ‘DNS_PROBE _FINISHED_BAD_CONFIG’ is one such common error that troubles you more often than expected. The error occurs majorly due to some issues with modem or DNS server connectivity.
FYI: DNS or Domain Name System is used to translate website names to the corresponding IP addresses.
The ‘DNS_PROBE _FINISHED_BAD_CONFIG’ blocks the page you have clicked to open. Many users get stuck by the error, however, there is nothing troublesome about it. This common error is very easy to fix. Although, there are several methods to solve the problem, I am focusing on the most tried and tested ones.
EASY DNS PROBE FINISHED BAD CONFIG SOLUTIONS
If you are aware about some technical aspects of Windows settings, then you will take no time in understanding these solutions. If you are not a tech person, just follow the steps and get rid of the error.
Solution 1: Reset IP Catalog
This is a basic method to solve any DNS Probe error. To fix the error, you need to clear the internal catalog of IP addresses.
- Start with opening your Windows Command Prompt. Click on ‘Start Menu’ and select Run to open. In the Run box, type “cmd.exe” to open the Command Prompt. ‘Accessories’ selection on the list of programs is another way to access it.
- In the Command Prompt, enter the following in the exact order and hit enter after each command line:
- netsh int ip reset
- netsh winsock reset
- ipconfig /flushdns
- ipconfig /renew
- The “ipconfig /flushdns” will flush the DNS cache. This will clear the history and let the next command work to fix the error.
- Now restart your computer and open the browser.
This will let Windows repopulate its catalog. The erring will be then replaced by the correct entry.
Solution 2: DNS Setting
Changing DNS setting is a very common way to fix a DNS probe occurring from the browser. You have to make some manual changes to correct the “DNS_Probe_Finished_Bad_Config” error.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Right click on your ‘Network’ icon and the click ‘Open Network and Sharing Center’. You can also open it from your Start Menu. Go to Start Menu – Computers – Network – Network and Sharing Center.
- Now click on Local Area Connections and then click on ‘Properties’.
A new window with connection uses list will open. From the list, select “Internet Protocol Version 4” and then click ‘Properties’.
- Click the radio button to select ‘Use the following DNS Server Addresses’. When clicked, the ‘Preferred DNS Server’ and the ‘Alternate DNS Server’ boxes get active.
Type 8.8.8.8 in Preferred DNS Server and 8.8.4.4 in Alternate DNS Server check box.
The above mentioned DNS are Google DNS. They are the most efficient and reliable servers to access the internet. However, there is no compulsion and you can use your preferred DNS server.
Finally, select ‘Validate Settings Upon Exit’ and click OK to exit.
This is a great way to fix your browser problem with Bad Config.
More Troubleshooting Methods
Solution 3: Disable Firewall and Antivirus
At times, your firewall or virus protection software can be a reason for DNS server probe. If the error occurred after upgrading your virus package or when you changed firewall settings, then disable either of the two and check if the error is fixed.
Solution 4: Disable Website Filters
The Bad Config error can also occur due to any website filtration software. If you have installed a software to block certain websites or to lock the content from being viewed by others, then temporarily disable the software to check if the issue gets resolved.
If not, uninstall it for a while to figure out if the problem is due to website filters. If not, roll back to the first two solutions mentioned above.
Solution 5: Reset the Browser
Sometimes browser cache block DNS and IP address. So clear your browser history and cache, and then reset the browser.
To reset the browser go to Customize and Control – Settings – Show Advanced Settings – Reset Settings – Reset.
According to me, these are the most appropriate solutions to fix a ‘DNS_PROBE _FINISHED_BAD_CONFIG’ error. If you still facing the problem even after trying all of them, then contact to your internet service provider. There are chances that your service provider may have blocked any harmful IP address by their firewall.
Let me know if these solutions were of some help. Also, if you have any other solution to fix the error, please share with us in the comments.
