The "This site can't be reached" error is one of the most frustrating messages a web user can encounter, especially in late 2025, as it immediately blocks access to a desired website. This cryptic message, often accompanied by sub-errors like DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN or ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE, signals a fundamental breakdown in the connection process where your browser—most commonly Google Chrome—is unable to establish communication with the target server. The good news is that this problem is almost always solvable, and the latest troubleshooting methods focus on resolving underlying DNS (Domain Name System) and network configuration issues that are common across Windows 11, macOS, and other operating systems.

This comprehensive, up-to-date guide breaks down the root causes of the error and provides a step-by-step list of 12 expert fixes, moving from the simplest checks to the most advanced command-line solutions. By systematically working through these methods, you can pinpoint and resolve the exact network or software conflict preventing your access and get back to browsing quickly.

Understanding the Root Causes of the 'This Site Can't Be Reached' Error

Before diving into the fixes, it's crucial to understand why this error appears. The message is a general umbrella for several types of connection failures. The primary culprits are almost always related to DNS, local network configuration, or security software interference.

• DNS Resolution Issues: This is the most common cause. The DNS acts as the internet's phonebook, translating a website's human-readable domain name (like `google.com`) into a machine-readable IP address (like `142.250.191.46`). If your computer's DNS cache is corrupted, your ISP's DNS server is down, or the domain name simply doesn't exist (the NXDOMAIN part of the sub-error), the browser can't get the IP and throws the error.
• Network/ISP Connectivity Problems: A weak Wi-Fi signal, a modem/router glitch, or an ISP outage can prevent your computer from sending or receiving data packets, leading to the connection timeout.
• Firewall, Antivirus, or VPN Interference: Overly aggressive security software or a misconfigured VPN can mistakenly block browser traffic or specific ports, creating a digital wall between your browser and the website.
• Browser and Cache Corruption: Outdated browser data, corrupted cookies, or a faulty extension can interfere with the connection process.

12 Essential Fixes to Resolve Your Connection Issues Immediately

Start with the quick checks and move down the list to the more advanced solutions. This systematic approach saves time and ensures you don't overlook a simple fix.

Phase 1: Quick & Simple Checks (The Low-Hanging Fruit)

These initial steps often resolve over 70% of all "This site can't be reached" errors.

1. Check the URL and Connection: Double-check the website address for any typos. Ensure your Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection is active and stable. Try visiting a known-good site like Google to confirm your internet is working.
2. Restart Your Equipment: Unplug your modem and router for at least 60 seconds. While they are off, restart your computer or mobile device. This clears temporary glitches in your network hardware and operating system.
3. Clear Your Browser Cache and Cookies: Corrupted browser data can cause connection failures. In Chrome, go to Settings -> Privacy and security -> Clear browsing data. Select "Cached images and files" and "Cookies and other site data" and clear them.
4. Disable VPN, Proxy, and Antivirus Temporarily: If you are using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) or a proxy server, disable it and try again. Similarly, temporarily switch off your third-party firewall or antivirus software to see if they are blocking the connection.

Phase 2: Advanced Command-Line Solutions (Targeting DNS)

If the simple fixes fail, the problem is almost certainly related to a corrupted DNS cache or a network stack issue. These fixes require using the Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac).

5. Flush the DNS Cache: Your computer stores a local cache of IP addresses to speed up browsing. If this cache is outdated or corrupted, it causes the error.
• On Windows 10/11: Open Command Prompt as Administrator. Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter. You should see a confirmation message.
• On Mac: Open Terminal. The command varies by macOS version, but sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder is a common command to clear the DNS cache.
6. Renew Your IP Address: This forces your computer to request a new IP address from your router, which can resolve local network conflicts.
• On Windows: In the same Command Prompt window, type ipconfig /release (press Enter), then ipconfig /renew (press Enter).
7. Reset the Winsock Catalog: Winsock (Windows Sockets) dictates how network applications access network services. A corrupted Winsock can break all network connectivity.
• On Windows: In Command Prompt, type netsh winsock reset and press Enter. You will need to restart your computer for this change to take effect.

Phase 3: Configuration and System-Level Deep Fixes

These are the ultimate solutions for persistent DNS or network adapter problems, often the final step needed for a complete resolution.

8. Change Your DNS Server: If your ISP's default DNS server is slow or unreliable, switching to a public, high-speed DNS server like Google Public DNS or Cloudflare DNS can solve the problem instantly.
• Recommended Public DNS Servers:
  • Cloudflare: Primary 1.1.1.1, Secondary 1.0.0.1
  • Google: Primary 8.8.8.8, Secondary 8.8.4.4
• How to Change (Windows): Go to Network & Internet settings, select your adapter (Wi-Fi or Ethernet), click "Properties," and edit the DNS settings for IPv4.
9. Check the Windows Hosts File: The Hosts file is a local address book that can override DNS settings. If a website is listed there incorrectly, it will cause the error. Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc and open the hosts file with Notepad. Delete any entries that look suspicious or are related to the site you can't reach.
10. Disable the Preload Feature in Chrome: Chrome's "Preload pages for faster browsing and searching" feature sometimes causes network resource conflicts. You can disable it under Chrome Settings -> Privacy and security -> Preload pages.
11. Update or Reinstall Network Adapter Drivers: Outdated or corrupted network drivers can prevent proper communication. Go to Device Manager (Windows), find your Network Adapters, right-click, and select "Update driver" or "Uninstall device" (then restart the PC to reinstall).
12. Reset Network Settings: As a last resort, you can perform a full network reset. This will revert all network adapters and components to their factory settings, effectively starting fresh.
• On Windows 10/11: Go to Settings -> Network & Internet -> Advanced network settings -> Network reset. This will require a system restart and you will need to re-enter your Wi-Fi password.