DNS 3 NXDOMAIN vs 4 NOTIMP
Both DNS 3 (NXDOMAIN) and 4 (NOTIMP) belong to the DNS Response Codes (RCODEs) category. 3 indicates that non-Existent Domain. The queried domain name does not exist in the DNS namespace. Meanwhile, 4 means that not Implemented. The name server does not support the requested query type or operation.
Description
Non-Existent Domain. The queried domain name does not exist in the DNS namespace.
When You See It
The domain has no DNS records at all — either it was never registered, has expired, or you have a typo in the hostname.
How to Fix
Double-check the domain spelling. If you own the domain, verify your registrar settings and ensure the nameservers are correctly delegated.
Description
Not Implemented. The name server does not support the requested query type or operation.
When You See It
You sent a query type (e.g., IXFR, dynamic update) that the server does not support or has disabled.
How to Fix
Verify the server supports the query type you are using. If you need zone transfers or dynamic updates, enable them in the server configuration.
Key Differences
DNS 3: Non-Existent Domain. The queried domain name does not exist in the DNS namespace.
DNS 4: Not Implemented. The name server does not support the requested query type or operation.
You encounter 3 when the domain has no DNS records at all — either it was never registered, has expired, or you have a typo in the hostname.
You encounter 4 when you sent a query type (e.g., IXFR, dynamic update) that the server does not support or has disabled.
When to Use Which
For 3 (NXDOMAIN): Double-check the domain spelling. If you own the domain, verify your registrar settings and ensure the nameservers are correctly delegated. For 4 (NOTIMP): Verify the server supports the query type you are using. If you need zone transfers or dynamic updates, enable them in the server configuration.