How to Fix the “Server IP Address Could Not Be Found” Error

The “Server IP address could not be found” error is a common issue that occurs when a web browser cannot resolve the IP address associated with a domain name. This can prevent users from accessing websites and may be due to DNS issues, network settings, or problems with the website’s server. Below is a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and fix this issue:

1. Check the Website URL

• Verify URL: Ensure that the URL is typed correctly in the browser’s address bar.
• Try a Different Website: Access other websites to determine if the issue is specific to one domain or a broader network problem.

2. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

• Cached data and cookies might cause conflicts with DNS resolution.
• Steps for Clearing Cache (e.g., Google Chrome):
  • Open Chrome and go to the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
  • Select More Tools > Clear Browsing Data.
  • Choose Cached images and files and Cookies and other site data.
  • Click Clear data.

3. Restart Your Router

• A simple router restart can fix temporary connectivity issues.
• Steps:
  • Power off the router and unplug it from the power source.
  • Wait for about 30 seconds before plugging it back in.
  • Turn the router back on and wait for it to reconnect to the internet.

4. Flush DNS Cache

• Flushing the DNS cache on your computer can resolve incorrect DNS entries.
• Windows:
  • Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
  • Type the following command and press Enter:
    ipconfig /flushdns

  • You should see a confirmation message saying the DNS cache was successfully flushed.
• macOS:
  • Open the Terminal.
  • Type the following command and press Enter:
    sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

  • Enter your administrator password if prompted.

5. Change DNS Servers

• Switching to a different DNS server can resolve DNS-related issues.
• Use public DNS servers like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS.
• Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
• Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
• Steps (Windows):
  • Open Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings.
  • Right-click on your network connection and select Properties.
  • Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
  • Check Use the following DNS server addresses and enter the new DNS addresses.
  • Click OK and restart your computer.

6. Disable VPN or Proxy Servers

• If you are using a VPN or proxy, it may interfere with DNS resolution.
• Try disabling the VPN or proxy to see if the issue is resolved.
• Steps to Disable Proxy on Windows:
  • Open Settings > Network & Internet > Proxy.
  • Turn off Use a proxy server.

7. Check Hosts File (Advanced)

• A misconfigured hosts file can block specific websites on your computer.
• Steps to Edit Hosts File:
  • Windows: Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc and open the hosts file with Notepad.
  • macOS: Open the Terminal and use the command:
    sudo nano /etc/hosts

  • Look for any entries that block the website you’re trying to access and remove them.
  • Save the changes and restart your computer.

8. Renew IP Address

• Renewing your IP address can resolve network conflicts.
• Windows:
  • Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  • Type the following commands one at a time, pressing Enter after each:
    ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew

• macOS:
  • Open System Preferences > Network.
  • Select your network connection and click Advanced.
  • Click Renew DHCP Lease.

9. Check for Network Issues

• If none of the above steps work, the issue might be with your ISP or server-side.
• Contact your ISP: Ask if there are any known DNS issues or outages in your area.
• Check Website Status: Use websites like downforeveryoneorjustme.com to see if the problem is with the website server.

10. Reinstall or Update Network Drivers

• Outdated or corrupt network drivers can cause connectivity issues.
• Steps:
  • Open Device Manager in Windows.
  • Expand Network Adapters.
  • Right-click your network adapter and select Update driver.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to update or reinstall the driver.

Conclusion

The “Server IP address could not be found” error can be frustrating, but with the right troubleshooting steps, it can be resolved quickly. Start with simple fixes like clearing your browser cache and restarting your router, and move on to more advanced methods like flushing the DNS cache or changing DNS servers if needed. If the issue persists, it may be server-side, in which case reaching out to your hosting provider or ISP is advisable.