The dreaded "err_name_not_resolved" error on your Android device means your phone can't find the website you're trying to access. This isn't a problem with the website itself, but rather with your device's ability to translate the website's name (like google.com) into its numerical IP address. This process relies on your phone's DNS (Domain Name System) settings. Let's troubleshoot this common Android issue.
What Causes the err_name_not_resolved Error?
This error typically stems from problems with your device's DNS configuration or your internet connection. Several factors can contribute:
- Incorrect DNS settings: Your Android phone might be using an incorrect or unavailable DNS server.
- Network connectivity issues: Problems with your Wi-Fi or mobile data connection can prevent your phone from contacting the DNS server.
- DNS server outages: Occasionally, the DNS server itself might be down or experiencing issues.
- Firewall or proxy settings: Network restrictions, such as firewalls or proxies, can interfere with DNS resolution.
- Software glitches: Rarely, a bug in your Android system or a specific app could cause this error.
How to Fix the err_name_not_resolved Error on Android
Let's tackle the most common fixes, starting with the simplest solutions:
1. Check Your Internet Connection
Before diving into complex settings, ensure your internet connection is working correctly.
- Wi-Fi: Try connecting to a different Wi-Fi network or restarting your router.
- Mobile Data: Check your mobile data signal strength and ensure your data plan is active. Try toggling mobile data on and off.
2. Restart Your Android Device
A simple restart can often resolve temporary software glitches that might be causing the problem.
3. Clear Your Browser's Cache and Data
Cached data can sometimes interfere with DNS resolution. Clearing your browser's cache and data is a quick and easy solution:
- Open your device's Settings.
- Go to Apps or Apps & notifications.
- Find your web browser (Chrome, Firefox, etc.).
- Tap on Storage or Storage & cache.
- Tap Clear cache and then Clear data. (Be aware that clearing data will log you out of websites.)
4. Manually Change Your DNS Settings
Your Android phone likely uses your internet provider's DNS servers automatically. However, switching to a public DNS server like Google Public DNS or Cloudflare DNS can often resolve the issue. Here's how:
- Open your device's Settings.
- Go to Wi-Fi.
- Tap on the name of your connected Wi-Fi network.
- Tap Modify network or Advanced options. (The exact wording varies depending on your Android version and device).
- Under IP settings, select Static.
- For IP address, use your current IP address (usually provided automatically).
- For Gateway, use your gateway address (usually provided automatically).
- For Netmask, use your subnet mask (usually provided automatically).
- For DNS 1, enter
8.8.8.8(Google Public DNS). - For DNS 2, enter
8.8.4.4(Google Public DNS). Alternatively, use Cloudflare's DNS:1.1.1.1and1.0.0.1. - Tap Save or Done.
5. Check for Network Restrictions (Firewalls/Proxies)
If you're using a VPN, corporate network, or a proxy server, these might be blocking access to certain websites. Temporarily disabling these services can help determine if they're the cause.
6. Check for App-Specific Issues
If the problem only occurs when using a specific app, try clearing the app's cache and data or reinstalling the app.
7. Factory Reset (Last Resort)
As a last resort, consider a factory reset. Remember to back up your data before doing this. A factory reset will erase all data on your device, so this should only be considered if other solutions fail.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is my DNS not working on Android?
Several factors can cause DNS issues, including incorrect DNS settings, network connectivity problems, DNS server outages, and conflicts with network restrictions like firewalls or proxies.
How do I fix DNS issues on my Android phone?
The most common fixes include checking your internet connection, restarting your phone, clearing your browser's cache, manually changing DNS settings, checking for network restrictions, checking app-specific issues, and finally, as a last resort, performing a factory reset.
What are the best DNS servers for Android?
Google Public DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) and Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1) are popular and reliable choices.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the "err_name_not_resolved" error and get back to browsing the web on your Android device. If the problem persists after trying these troubleshooting steps, you may want to contact your mobile carrier or device manufacturer for further assistance.
