How to Fix ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED in Chrome

Understanding the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED Error in Chrome

Encountering the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error in Chrome can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to access your favorite website. Google’s error message help says it means the page didn’t let Chrome connect, or the page is blocked. While this can happen for various reasons, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the issue and get back online.

Quick Fixes to Try First

• Check your internet connection to ensure you’re connected to the network.
• Try accessing the website from another device or browser to see if the problem persists.
• Restart your router to eliminate any temporary network issues.

Check Server Status

Sometimes, the chrome server refused error might be due to the website’s server being down. Here’s how you can check:

1. Use a website like Is It Down Right Now? to check the status of the website.
2. If the server is down, you’ll need to wait until the website is back up and running.

Clear Chrome Cache

Clearing your browser cache can often resolve the chrome connection refused issue:

1. Open Chrome and click the three dots (More) in the top-right corner.
2. Select Delete browsing data.
3. Choose All time from the time range dropdown.
4. Check the boxes for cookies and Cached images and files. Deleting cookies signs you out of most sites.
5. Click Delete data.
6. Restart Chrome and try accessing the website again.

Disable Proxy Settings

Proxy settings can sometimes cause the chrome refused to connect error. Disable them as follows:

Windows

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type inetcpl.cpl and press Enter.
3. In the Internet Properties window, go to the Connections tab.
4. Click LAN settings.
5. Uncheck Use a proxy server for your LAN.
6. Click OK and Apply.

macOS

1. Open System Settings and select Network.
2. Choose your network service and click Details.
3. Click Proxies (Apple’s steps).
4. Turn off every proxy you did not set up on purpose.
5. Click OK.

Check Firewall and Security Software

Your firewall or antivirus software might block the website, causing chrome connection refused errors. Here’s what you can do:

1. Temporarily disable your firewall and security software.
2. Try to access the website again.
3. Turn the software back on. If the error was resolved, adjust its settings to allow Chrome to access the internet.

Reset TCP/IP

If the above methods don’t work, resetting TCP/IP settings can help resolve chrome connection refused issues:

Windows

1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
   • netsh int ip reset
   • netsh winsock reset
3. Restart your computer.

macOS (flush the DNS cache)

1. Open Terminal.
2. Type the command sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder and press Enter.
3. Enter your password if prompted.
4. Restart your computer.

Conclusion

The ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error in Chrome can stem from various issues ranging from server problems to local network settings. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to diagnose and fix the problem effectively. If the issue persists, consider consulting the Google Chrome Help Center for more detailed assistance.