Encountering the “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED” error in Google Chrome can be frustrating, especially when trying to access a website or service. This error indicates that the browser was unable to establish a connection with the requested web server, preventing access to the desired webpage. While the exact cause of this error can vary, there are several troubleshooting steps and solutions that users can employ to resolve it. In this article, we’ll explore nine effective tips for fixing the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error in Chrome and getting back to browsing without interruptions.
1. Check Website URL and Connection
The first step in resolving the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error is to verify the website URL for any typos or errors. Ensure that you’ve entered the correct website address and protocol (http:// or https://). Additionally, check your internet connection to confirm that you’re connected to the internet and that there are no network issues affecting your ability to access the website.
2. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
Cached data and cookies stored in your browser can sometimes cause connection issues and trigger the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error. To clear the cache and cookies in Google Chrome, go to the browser settings, navigate to the “Privacy and security” section, and select “Clear browsing data.” Choose the time range and the types of data you want to clear, then click “Clear data” to remove cached files and cookies.
3. Disable VPN or Proxy Settings
If you’re using a VPN or proxy service, these settings may be interfering with your connection and causing the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error. Try disabling your VPN or proxy temporarily and see if you can access the website without any issues. If the error disappears after disabling these settings, consider adjusting your VPN or proxy configuration or using a different server.
4. Flush DNS Cache
Flushing the DNS cache can help resolve DNS-related issues that may be causing the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error. To flush the DNS cache in Windows, open the Command Prompt as an administrator and run the command “ipconfig /flushdns.” On macOS, open the Terminal and run the command “sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder.” After flushing the DNS cache, restart your browser and try accessing the website again.
5. Disable Firewall or Antivirus Software
Firewall or antivirus software installed on your computer may sometimes block connections to certain websites, triggering the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error. Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus software and see if you’re able to access the website without encountering the error. If the error disappears after disabling these security tools, adjust their settings to allow connections to the website.
6. Restart DNS Client Service
Restarting the DNS Client service on your computer can help resolve DNS-related issues that may be contributing to the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error. To restart the DNS Client service in Windows, open the Services console, locate the DNS Client service, right-click on it, and select “Restart.” After restarting the service, try accessing the website again to see if the error persists.
7. Check Hosts File
The hosts file on your computer may contain entries that redirect website requests, potentially leading to the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error. Check the hosts file for any unwanted entries and remove them if necessary. On Windows, the hosts file is located in the “C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\” directory, while on macOS, it’s located in the “/etc/” directory.
8. Update Network Drivers
Outdated or corrupt network drivers can sometimes cause connection issues and trigger the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error. Ensure that your network drivers are up to date by visiting the manufacturer’s website or using a driver update utility to download and install the latest drivers for your network adapter. After updating the drivers, restart your computer and check if the error persists.
9. Contact Website Administrator
If you’ve tried all the above troubleshooting steps and are still unable to resolve the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error, the issue may lie with the website itself. Contact the website administrator or technical support team to report the error and request assistance. They may be able to identify and address any server-side issues that are causing the connection problem.
The ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error in Google Chrome can be frustrating, but with the right troubleshooting steps and solutions, it can usually be resolved quickly. By following the nine effective tips outlined in this article, users can diagnose and fix the underlying issues causing the error and get back to browsing the web without interruptions. Whether it’s clearing browser cache, disabling VPN or proxy settings, or updating network drivers, there are various strategies available to resolve the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error and ensure a seamless browsing experience in Chrome.
