How to Troubleshoot “Failed to Connect to Server Unknown Host” Error

Hello Dev, welcome to our guide on how to troubleshoot “failed to connect to server unknown host” error. This error message typically appears when trying to access a website or connect to a server that cannot be found. It can be frustrating, but don’t worry! In this article, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to fix this error and get back to browsing the internet.

Understanding the Error Message

The error message “failed to connect to server unknown host” can be caused by a variety of issues. Sometimes, it may be a temporary problem with the website or server you are trying to access. Other times, it may be caused by issues with your network connection or your computer’s DNS settings.

Before we dive into troubleshooting, let’s take a closer look at what this error message means:

Now that we have a better understanding of the error message, let’s move on to troubleshooting.

Step-by-Step Guide to Troubleshooting

Step 1: Check Your Internet Connection

The first step in troubleshooting “failed to connect to server unknown host” error is to make sure that you have a stable internet connection. Make sure that you are connected to a network and that your connection is strong enough to load websites. You can also try restarting your router or modem to see if that resolves the issue.

Step 2: Clear Your Browser Cache

If your internet connection is stable, the next step is to clear your browser cache. Sometimes, cached data can cause problems when trying to access a website. Clearing your cache can help resolve the issue.

Step 3: Disable Your Firewall and Antivirus

Your firewall or antivirus software may be blocking access to the server you are trying to connect to, causing the error message to appear. Try disabling your firewall and antivirus temporarily to see if this resolves the issue.

Step 4: Check Your DNS Settings

If none of the above steps work, the issue may be with your computer’s DNS settings. Try changing your DNS settings to Google’s public DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or another reliable DNS server. You can find instructions on how to change your DNS settings on the internet.

Step 5: Contact Your Internet Service Provider

If you have tried all of the above steps and still cannot connect to the server, the issue may be with your internet service provider. Contact your ISP and explain the issue to them. They may be able to provide you with a solution or escalate the issue to their technical support team.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “unknown host” mean?

“Unknown host” means that your computer was unable to find the IP address associated with the domain name of the server you are trying to connect to. This can be caused by issues with your DNS settings or with the server’s domain name.

Can a website be down for some users but not others?

Yes, it is possible for a website to be down for some users but not others. This can be caused by issues with the user’s network or computer, or by temporary problems with the website or server.

What should I do if I still cannot connect to the server after trying all of the troubleshooting steps?

If you have tried all of the troubleshooting steps and still cannot connect to the server, contact the website or server’s technical support team. They may be able to provide you with further assistance.

Is it safe to change my DNS settings?

Yes, it is safe to change your DNS settings. However, be sure to use a reliable DNS server and follow proper instructions when changing your settings.

Can antivirus software cause “failed to connect to server unknown host” error?

Yes, antivirus software can sometimes block access to certain websites or servers, causing the error message to appear. Try disabling your antivirus temporarily to see if this resolves the issue.