The “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED” error happens when your browser cannot connect to a website because the server refuses the request. You can fix this error by:
- Checking if the website is down
- Restarting your router
- Clearing your browser cache
- Disabling firewallor antivirus temporarily
- Making changes in the DNS setting, and more
This blog will help you understand what “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED” error means and guide you through different solutions to fix it.
What is “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED”?
When you try to open a website, your browser sends a request to a web server to load the page. However, sometimes, the connection between your browser and the server fails, and you see the error message: “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED.” This message indicates that your browser tried to establish a connection to the server, but the server refused the connection for some reason.
This is a common error that can happen for several reasons and can usually be fixed with a few simple steps.
Why Does the “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED” Error Occur?
There are several reasons why you might see this error. The most common ones include:
- Web Server Issues: The website you are trying to visit might be having problems like server downtime or misconfiguration. You should wait for some time and then visit the site later.
- Firewall or Antivirus Software Blocking the Connection: Sometimes, antivirus software or firewallsettings can block your browser’s request to connect to the server. These security tools might mistakenly identify a harmless website as a threat and refuse the connection.
- Browser Configuration Issues: A misconfigured browser can also cause this error. Problems with cached data, extensions, or settings can prevent Chrome or other web browsers from connecting to websites properly.
- Network Problems: Issues with your internet connection or the network you are using can also lead to this error. If your Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection is unstable, it could cause the browser to lose its connection to the web server.
- DNS Issues: Domain Name System(DNS) helps browsers find the IP address of the website you are trying to visit. If there is a problem with your DNS settings, you may encounter the “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED” error.
How to Fix the “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED” Error
Now that you know what causes the “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED” error, let us look at ways to resolve it.
1.Check the Website’s Server Status
Before making any changes to your computer, check if the website you are trying to visit is down for everyone or just you. Sometimes, the error is due to server-side issues, meaning the website is experiencing downtime or technical difficulties.
Additionally, there are many third-party tools like Down For Everyone or Just Me that allow you to check your website’s status.
2.Check Your Internet Connection
The “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED” error can also appear if you are having trouble with your internet connection. You can fix it by:
- Restarting Your Router: Sometimes, simply restarting your router can solve network issues. Turn it off for a minute, then turn it back on and check if the issue persists.
- Switching to a Different Network: If you are using Wi-Fi, try switching to a wired connection, which can help. Alternatively, you can connect to a different Wi-Fi network to see if the issue persists.
3.Disable Firewall or Antivirus Temporarily
Antivirus and firewall settings keep your system protected from viruses and other harmful agents. Sometimes, these settings might block a website’s connection you are trying to access. In that case, try turning off your firewall or antivirus program to see if the issue gets resolved. If it does, make sure to add the website as an exception in your security software to avoid future issues. Here is how you can do it:
- For Windows Firewall:Go to Control Panel → System and Security → Windows Defender Firewall → Turn Windows Firewall on or off.
- For Antivirus Software: Open your antivirus program and look for an option to disable it temporarily.
Don’t forget to turn your firewall or antivirus back on after testing!
4.Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
A corrupted cache or outdated cookies in your browser can cause the “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED” error. Here is how you can clear your cache and cookies in Google Chrome:
- Open Chrome and click on the three dots (menu) in the upper right corner.
- Select “More tools” and navigate to “Clear browsing data.”
- Select “Cookies and other site data” and “Cached images and files” in the pop-up window.
- Select “All time” as the time range and click on “Clear data.”
Clearing your cache and cookies will force Chrome to reload the website without using old, potentially corrupt data.
5.Disable Proxy Settings
Proxy internet can also cause this error. To disable the proxy in Google Chrome:
- Open Chrome and go to “Settings.”
- Scroll down and click on “Advanced.”
- Under the “System” section, click on “Open your computer’s proxy settings.” Make sure the “Use a proxy server” option is turned off.
If your computer is set up to use a proxy, disabling it may fix the issue.
6.Flush DNS Cache
Sometimes, the DNS cache on your computer might restrict your accessibility. You can flush the DNS cache by:
- Opening the Command Prompt via the home screen of your system or by pressing the Windows key + R.
- After opening the Command Prompt, type cmd and press “Enter.”
- Then, type the command: “ipconfig /flushdns,” Enter.
- Now, you should see a message: “Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache.”
This way, you can flush your DNS cache. For the unversed, flushing your DNS cache forces your computer to fetch fresh DNS information, which might resolve any connection problems.
7.Try a Different DNS Server
If flushing the DNS cache does not work, you can try changing your DNS server to one that is more reliable. Here is how you can change the DNS server settings in your system.
- Go to Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center → Change adapter settings.
- Right-click on “Your active connection” and select “Properties.”
- Click on “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and then click on “Properties.”
- Select “Use the following DNS server addresses” and enter the preferred DNS server and alternate DNS server details. Then, click on OK to save the changes.
8.Check for Browser or System Updates
Make sure that both your web browser and operating system are up to date. Sometimes, bugs or issues can cause the “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED” error, and updating your software can help fix them.
- For Chrome:Go to Settings → About Chrome to check for updates.
- For Windows:Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update to check for the latest updates.
Conclusion
The “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED” error can be frustrating, but it is not the end of the world. In most cases, it can be fixed with a few simple steps. By following the solutions outlined in this blog, you should be able to resolve the issue and get back to browsing the web without any interruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1.Why does a website have connection issues?
A website may not connect due to server downtime, network issues, DNS errors, or firewall settings. It can also be blocked by an Internet service provider or be temporarily down for maintenance.
2.How to fix “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED”in Edge?
Here is a step-by-step guide to fixing the “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED” error in Edge:
- Check proxy settings
- Change DNS address
- Verify if the website is down
- Clear browser cache
- Flush DNS cache
- Restart the router
- Temporarily disable antivirus or firewall
3.Why does Google Chrome say, “refused to connect”?
Client-side issues like a weak internet connection, problematic extensions, antivirus or firewall interference, or incorrect internet settings usually cause this error.
We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below!
