Stumbling upon an “ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED” error message while browsing on Google Chrome is a huge annoyance. It means you can’t access a specific website or web page. This error can result in a loss of time or business if it happens while you’re working online.
Fortunately, there are easy ways to fix this error without having to contact your internet service provider for support.
In this blog post, we’ll explain what ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED means, what causes it, and, most importantly, how to fix it.
What does ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED mean?
Before we dive into the solutions, let’s take a minute to understand what the ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED message even means.
ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED as a Google Chrome error message means that the connection between the website and the browser ended.
This error message appears when the website you’re trying to access can’t establish a successful connection to the server.
Basically, your browser cannot communicate with the server and retrieve the content you’re looking for. It’s a common error message that we face while browsing on Google Chrome.
This can happen for a variety of reasons, and we’ll explore them in the next section.
What are the causes behind the ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED error message?
There are many reasons why the ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED error message appears on Google Chrome.
The most common causes include:
- Network issues
- Server problems
- Browser-related issues.
Network issues can include issues with your internet connection, and router issues.
Server problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including server downtime, maintenance, or configuration issues.
Browser-related issues can be caused by outdated browser extensions, cookies, or cache.
Another reason can be due to the website’s security issues. If the website’s security certificate has expired, Chrome won’t allow you to access the website and show the ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED message.
How To Fix ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED? (Six Solutions)
Let’s dive into six ways to fix the ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED message in Google Chrome.
#1. Clear Browser Cache
Corrupt cache files could be the culprit behind an ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED error message.
To clear the cache, go to Google Chrome’s settings (the 3 vertical dots on your browser’s top right) and click on ‘More Tools.’
Next, click on the ‘Clear Browsing Data’ option and choose the time range. Click on ‘Clear Data,’ and your cache is cleared.
After you have cleared the outdated cache files, check if you’re still getting the ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED error message or not.
Note: If the error message has disappeared, clearing the cache worked for you as a fix!
#2. Update Google Chrome
An outdated browser can cause several errors, including ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED. Check if you have the latest Google Chrome version. If not, update it.
To do this, click on Chrome settings, in the top-right corner of the Chrome window, select Help, and click on About Google Chrome.
If an update is available, it will automatically download and install.
Once you’ve installed the updated version of Google Chrome, check if you’re still getting the ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED error or not.
If it does not appear, this was the fix that you needed.
#3. Disable Chrome Extensions
Chrome Extensions can cause conflicts with certain websites and show the ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED message.
Disable all the Chrome extensions temporarily and check if the website connects.
To disable extensions, go to the three vertical dots in the top right corner of your Chrome window.
Next, click on “Settings”, and select “Extensions”.
Then, toggle off all Chrome extensions. Check out the screenshot below for a visual aid.
Try accessing the website again to see if the error still appears or has been resolved.
Note: If it connects, then perhaps only one of your extensions might be the culprit. Re-enable the extensions one by one and check which extension blocks the website.
#4. Reset/Reboot Your Router
A weak internet connection can lead to the ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED error message. It’s essential to check your internet connection before accessing any website.
Make sure that your internet connection is stable and working fine.
First, check to see if you can access other websites. If you’re having trouble with your internet connection, try resetting your modem or contacting your ISP for assistance.
Restart (or reboot) your router or switch to another network and check if the problem persists.
Rebooting your router typically involves unplugging and waiting 30 seconds before you restart the machine. Some routers even have a reset button on the machine itself to restore settings.
Different router manufacturers offer step-by-step tutorials on how to reset or reboot your router. Below is a screenshot from Verizon’s website with instructions on how to reboot their router:
#5. Disable your Firewall and Anti-Virus Software
Your computer’s firewall can sometimes block the connection between the website and the browser. This will result in Google Chrome displaying the “ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED” message to you. Temporarily disable the firewall and try to access the website.
If the website loads, then the firewall settings might be blocking the connection. Change the firewall settings to allow access to the website.
Antivirus software can also cause the ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED error.
They have their own set of security protocols that sometimes interfere with Google Chrome’s connection to a website.
Try turning off your antivirus software temporarily to see if this resolves the error message.
#6. Contact The Website’s Owner
If you’ve tried all the above methods, and you’re still encountering the ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED error message for a specific website, it’s possible that the website itself is currently experiencing issues.
You can try contacting the website owner to see if there are any known problems.
Reaching out to a website via its social media or contact forms can help you understand if the particular page that you are trying to access is currently under maintenance and not accessible to everyone.
Note; In case you’re looking to fix the ERR_CONNECTION_RESET error message next, check out this blog post.
Conclusion: Final thoughts
The ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED error message can disrupt our work and cause unnecessary frustration.
We hope that with the above six workarounds, you can troubleshoot with ease and resolve the error message.
Remember to first identify the cause of the ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED error message, and then try all our solutions.
If all else fails, don’t hesitate to reach out to your internet service provider for help.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a smooth and seamless browsing experience on Google Chrome.
Don’t let error messages such as the ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED stop you from browsing your favorite website!
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Nirali has over a decade of experience working in marketing with startups in a variety of sectors, including e-commerce, ed-tech, and SaaS. She has a keen understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing early-stage companies and a track record of developing effective content strategies that drive growth and engagement.
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