How to Fix DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_BAD_CONFIG Error on Windows and Chrome

February 15, 2026

Encountering the DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_BAD_CONFIG error can be incredibly frustrating. This error typically occurs when there is a misconfiguration in your system's DNS settings, a problem with your router, or outdated network drivers. It prevents your browser from translating website URLs into IP addresses, effectively cutting off your internet access.

In this guide, we will walk you through the most effective, step-by-step methods to resolve this issue and get you back online.

1. Restart Your Router and Modem

Before diving into complex system settings, the first step is always to power cycle your networking equipment. Unplug your router and modem from the power source, wait for at least 30 seconds, and plug them back in. This clears the router's temporary cache and re-establishes a fresh connection with your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

2. Flush DNS and Reset TCP/IP Stack

Corrupted DNS cache or outdated IP configurations are common culprits for the 'Bad Config' error. You can clear these records using the Command Prompt:

  • Press Windows Key + S, type cmd, right-click it, and select Run as Administrator.
  • Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
    • ipconfig /release
    • ipconfig /flushdns
    • ipconfig /renew
    • netsh int ip set dns
    • netsh winsock reset
  • Restart your computer after the last command to apply the changes.

3. Change Your DNS Servers Manually

If your ISP's default DNS server is unstable or misconfigured, switching to a reliable public provider like Google DNS or Cloudflare often solves the problem instantly.

  1. Open the Control Panel and navigate to Network and Sharing Center.
  2. Click on Change adapter settings in the left sidebar.
  3. Right-click your active internet connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and select Properties.
  4. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click the Properties button.
  5. Choose Use the following DNS server addresses and enter these Google DNS values:
    • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
    • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
  6. Check the box Validate settings upon exit and click OK.

4. Disable Proxy Settings

An active or misconfigured proxy server can interfere with how your browser resolves DNS. Follow these steps to ensure your proxy is disabled:

  1. Press Windows Key + R, type inetcpl.cpl, and hit Enter to open Internet Properties.
  2. Navigate to the Connections tab and click on the LAN settings button.
  3. Ensure that Automatically detect settings is checked.
  4. Crucially, ensure Use a proxy server for your LAN is unchecked.
  5. Click OK to save and exit.

5. Update Your Network Drivers

Outdated or corrupt network adapter drivers can lead to DNS communication failures. To fix this:

  • Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  • Expand the Network adapters section.
  • Right-click your network controller (e.g., Intel Wi-Fi or Realtek Ethernet) and select Update driver.
  • Choose Search automatically for drivers and follow the prompts.

6. Perform a Network Reset

If the error persists, a full Network Reset is the final solution. This will remove and reinstall all your network adapters and set other networking components back to their original settings.

  • Go to Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings.
  • Click on Network reset.
  • Click the Reset now button and confirm.
  • Your PC will restart automatically. Note that you will need to re-enter your Wi-Fi passwords after the reboot.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep your software updated to avoid these issues in the future.

Category: #Internet