This issue on Android devices indicates a failure to translate a domain name into its corresponding IP address. This prevents the device from accessing the requested website or service. For example, attempting to load “www.example.com” in a browser results in this error if the device cannot determine the IP address associated with that domain name.
The resolution of domain names is fundamental to internet functionality. Without it, users would need to memorize and enter numerical IP addresses to access online resources. This process significantly improves user experience by allowing access to websites and services via easily remembered names. Historically, this system evolved from simple host files to the globally distributed and hierarchical Domain Name System (DNS), crucial for modern internet communication.