ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE Fix

The ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE error in Chrome can be frustrating, as it prevents you from accessing specific websites. This issue often relates to DNS resolution, proxy settings, or network configuration. Fortunately, there are several steps you can follow to address this problem across different platforms.

Quick Fixes to Try First

  • Restart your modem and router.
  • Clear Chrome’s cache: at the top right, select More > Delete browsing data.
  • Disable proxy settings via Chrome’s menu: Settings > System > Open your computer’s proxy settings.
  • Use a different browser to see if the issue persists.
  • Check your device’s network settings or switch to a different network.

How to Fix ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE on Windows

  1. Check DNS Settings:
    • Press Windows + R, type ncpa.cpl, and press Enter.
    • Right-click on your network connection and select Properties.
    • Double-click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
    • Ensure “Obtain DNS server address automatically” is selected, or manually set a preferred DNS like Google’s (8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4).
  2. Reset Network Configurations:
    • Open Command Prompt as administrator.
    • Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
    • Type netsh winsock reset and press Enter.
    • Restart your computer.
  3. Adjust Firewall Settings:
    • Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
    • Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
    • Ensure Chrome is checked for both private and public networks.

How to Fix ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE on macOS

  1. Check DNS Settings:
    • Open System Settings and click on Network.
    • Click your network service and click Details.
    • Click DNS and add Google’s DNS (8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4) with the + button (Apple’s steps).
  2. Reset Network Settings:
    • Open Terminal.
    • Type sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder and press Enter, then enter your password.
    • Restart your Mac.
  3. Check Proxy Settings:
    • Go to System Settings > Network.
    • Click your network service, click Details, and then Proxies (Apple’s steps).
    • Ensure no proxy is turned on unless you need one.

How to Fix ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE on Linux

  1. Check DNS Settings:
    • Open a terminal window.
    • On most desktop distributions, set DNS in your connection’s network settings, because a network manager can rewrite /etc/resolv.conf. If your system uses a hand-edited file, edit /etc/resolv.conf with your preferred text editor.
    • Add or modify the lines to include Google’s DNS: nameserver 8.8.8.8.
  2. Reset Network Configurations:
    • In the terminal, type sudo systemctl restart NetworkManager to restart your network services.
  3. Check Firewall Settings:
    • Check your firewall settings using sudo ufw status.
    • Ensure Chrome has the necessary permissions.

How to Fix ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE on Android

  1. Check Network Connection:
    • Go to Settings > Network & Internet.
    • Toggle Airplane mode on and off to reset the connection.
  2. Clear Chrome Cache:
    • Open Settings > Apps > Chrome (menu names vary by phone maker).
    • Select Storage & cache and tap Clear cache.
  3. Check Proxy Settings:
    • In Settings > Network & internet > Internet, open the settings for your Wi-Fi network and edit it.
    • Ensure the proxy is set to None. If you can’t find it, search Settings for “proxy”.

How to Fix ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE on iOS

  1. Reset Network Settings:
    • Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
    • Select Reset Network Settings and confirm. This removes saved Wi-Fi networks and VPN settings (Apple’s steps).
  2. Check DNS Settings:
    • Navigate to Settings > Wi-Fi.
    • Tap the i next to your network and configure DNS manually to 8.8.8.8.
Pro Tip: Use the Chrome URL chrome://net-internals/#dns to clear host cache in Chrome for advanced troubleshooting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I keep seeing ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE?

This error typically occurs due to issues with DNS resolution or network configurations. It can also be caused by incorrect proxy settings or firewall restrictions.

How do I clear Chrome’s DNS cache?

Open the address in the tip above and click “Clear host cache”. See how to clear the DNS cache for the system cache too.

Can antivirus software cause ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE?

Yes, overly restrictive antivirus or firewall settings can block Chrome from accessing the internet, leading to this error.

Is there a way to bypass proxy settings in Chrome?

Yes, you can disable proxy settings by going to Settings > System > Open your computer’s proxy settings and ensuring no proxy is set.

How do I know if my router is causing the issue?

If the issue persists across multiple devices on the same network, try resetting your router or checking its settings for any connectivity restrictions.

In conclusion, the ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE error can usually be resolved by checking and adjusting DNS, proxy settings, and network configurations. By following the steps outlined for each platform, you should be able to access the websites you need without interruption.