Why is my domain not resolving to my hosting server?

Introduction

When a domain name does not resolve to its hosting server, visitors may see errors such as “Site not found”, “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN”, or a blank page. This issue usually relates to DNS configuration, domain settings, or server connectivity. This article explains the most common reasons why a domain may not resolve correctly and how to troubleshoot them.

Common Reasons a Domain Is Not Resolving

DNS Configuration Issues

Incorrect Nameservers

If your domain is pointing to the wrong nameservers, it will not connect to your hosting server.

Verify the nameservers provided by your hosting provider
Update the domain’s nameservers at your domain registrar

Missing or Incorrect DNS Records

Even with correct nameservers, missing or incorrect DNS records can prevent resolution.

Ensure an A record points to the correct server IP
Check CNAME records for subdomains (e.g., www)
Remove conflicting or duplicate records

DNS Propagation Delay

Recent DNS Changes

DNS updates can take time to propagate globally.

Propagation typically takes up to 24–48 hours
During this time, the domain may work in some locations but not others

Cached DNS Records

Local or ISP-level caching may still show old DNS information.

Clear your browser cache
Flush your local DNS cache
Test using a different network or device

Domain Registration and Status Issues

Domain Not Fully Registered or Expired

A domain that is expired or not fully registered will not resolve.

Confirm the domain status with your registrar
Renew the domain if it has expired

Domain Locked or Suspended

Administrative or policy issues can prevent DNS resolution.

Check for registrar suspension notices
Verify domain ownership and contact details

Hosting Server-Related Issues

Server Downtime

If the hosting server is offline, the domain cannot resolve properly.

Check your hosting provider’s service status
Contact hosting support if the server is down

Incorrect Server IP Address

If the server IP has changed and DNS records were not updated:

Confirm the correct IP address with your host
Update the A record accordingly

Configuration Issues on the Hosting Account

Domain Not Added to Hosting Account

The domain must be added or assigned to the hosting account.

Add the domain as a primary or addon domain
Ensure the document root is correctly configured

Virtual Host or Web Server Misconfiguration

Improper server configuration may prevent the site from loading.

Check virtual host settings
Ensure the domain is mapped to the correct directory

How to Troubleshoot Domain Resolution Issues

Step-by-Step Checks

Verify Domain Status

Confirm the domain is active and registered

Check Nameservers

Compare registrar nameservers with hosting provider details

Review DNS Records

Confirm A, CNAME, and other required records

Test DNS Resolution

Use online DNS lookup tools
Test from different locations

Conclusion

A domain not resolving to your hosting server is usually caused by DNS misconfiguration, propagation delays, domain status issues, or hosting-related problems. By systematically checking nameservers, DNS records, domain status, and server availability, most issues can be identified and resolved quickly. If the problem persists, contacting your domain registrar or hosting provider is the best next step.

Need Help?

If you require assistance at any point while using this guide, our Support Team is here to help:

Email: support@bigcloudy.com
Submit a support ticket

FAQ

How long does it take for a domain to start resolving after I update DNS?

DNS changes can take up to 24–48 hours to fully propagate worldwide. During this time, the domain may work in some locations and not in others.

What does “domain not resolving” mean?

It means your domain name is not pointing to a valid server IP address, so browsers cannot locate the website associated with the domain.

What is an A record and why is it important?

An A record maps your domain name to your hosting server’s IP address.
If the A record is missing or incorrect, your domain will not resolve to the server.

What happens if my domain has expired?

If your domain has expired:

DNS records may stop working
The domain may stop resolving completely
Renewing the domain typically restores resolution within a few hours.

Can incorrect IP address cause domain resolution issues?

Yes. If the domain points to an old, changed, or wrong IP address, the website will not load. Always ensure the A record matches your hosting server’s current IP.