ERR_HTTP2_PROTOCOL_ERROR Fix

Quick Fixes to Try First

If you’re encountering the ERR_HTTP2_PROTOCOL_ERROR in Chrome, try these quick solutions first:

  • Clear your browser’s cache and cookies.
  • Disable all extensions temporarily to check for conflicts.
  • Restart your router and computer.
  • Update Chrome to the latest version.
  • Try accessing the website in Incognito mode.

Understanding the ERR_HTTP2_PROTOCOL_ERROR in Chrome

The ERR_HTTP2_PROTOCOL_ERROR is a common issue faced by users when browsing with Chrome. This error occurs when there’s a problem with the HTTP/2 protocol, which is responsible for faster web page loading. It can be caused by outdated browsers, corrupted cache, or network conflicts. Here’s how to troubleshoot and fix the issue on various platforms.

How to Fix the ERR_HTTP2_PROTOCOL_ERROR on Windows

  1. Clear Cache and Cookies:
    1. Open Chrome and select the three-dot menu (More) in the top-right corner.
    2. Select Delete browsing data, or press Ctrl + Shift + Delete.
    3. Choose All time as the time range.
    4. Check Cached images and files and the cookies box. Deleting cookies signs you out of most sites.
    5. Select Delete data. Google’s guide to deleting browsing data explains each item.
  2. Disable Extensions:
    1. Enter chrome://extensions in the address bar.
    2. Toggle off all extensions to disable them.
    3. Restart Chrome and check if the error persists.
  3. Reset Network Stack:
    1. Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog.
    2. Type cmd and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open Command Prompt as administrator.
    3. Enter the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
      • netsh int ip reset
      • netsh winsock reset
      • ipconfig /flushdns
    4. Restart your computer.
  4. Update Chrome:
    1. Open Chrome and click on the three-dot menu.
    2. Go to Help > About Google Chrome.
    3. Chrome will check for updates and install them if available.
    4. Restart Chrome.

Fixing the ERR_HTTP2_PROTOCOL_ERROR on macOS

  1. Clear Cache and Cookies:
    1. In Chrome, select More > Delete browsing data, or press Command + Shift + Delete.
    2. Choose All time, then check Cached images and files and the cookies box.
    3. Select Delete data.
  2. Disable Extensions:
    1. Enter chrome://extensions in the address bar.
    2. Toggle off each extension to disable them.
    3. Restart Chrome.
  3. Reset Network Stack:
    1. Open the Terminal application (use Spotlight search by pressing Cmd + Space).
    2. Run the following commands:
      • sudo dscacheutil -flushcache
      • sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
    3. Enter your password if prompted, then restart your Mac.
  4. Update Chrome:
    1. Open Chrome, click on the three-dot menu, and navigate to Help > About Google Chrome.
    2. Install any available updates, then restart Chrome.

Resolving ERR_HTTP2_PROTOCOL_ERROR on Linux

  1. Clear Cache and Cookies:
    1. In Chrome, select More > Delete browsing data, or press Ctrl + Shift + Delete.
    2. Choose All time, then check Cached images and files and the cookies box.
    3. Select Delete data.
  2. Disable Extensions:
    1. Enter chrome://extensions in the address bar.
    2. Disable all extensions by toggling them off.
    3. Restart Chrome.
  3. Restart Your Network: Disconnect and reconnect your network, or restart your Linux machine. Do not flush your firewall rules (iptables -F), which some guides suggest: it removes your firewall’s protection and does not fix this error.
  4. Update Chrome:
    1. Open a terminal and type sudo apt-get update.
    2. Then run sudo apt-get --only-upgrade install google-chrome-stable (Debian and Ubuntu; our Chrome for Linux page covers other distributions).
    3. Restart Chrome.

How to Address ERR_HTTP2_PROTOCOL_ERROR on Android and iOS

While mobile platforms require slightly different approaches, the core solutions remain the same. Follow these steps to resolve the error on your mobile device:

Android

  1. Clear Cache and Cookies:
    1. Open Chrome and tap More > Settings.
    2. Tap Privacy and security > Delete browsing data.
    3. Choose All time, then check the cookies item and Cached images and files.
    4. Tap Delete data.
  2. Disable Extensions: Note that Chrome for Android does not support extensions, so this step can be skipped.
  3. Update Chrome:
    1. Open the Google Play Store.
    2. Search for Google Chrome.
    3. If an update is available, tap Update.

iOS

  1. Clear Cache and Cookies:
    1. Open Chrome and tap More > Settings.
    2. Tap Privacy and Security > Delete Browsing Data.
    3. Choose All Time, select the cookies item and the cached images and files item, then confirm the delete.
  2. Update Chrome:
    1. Open the App Store.
    2. Tap on your profile icon at the top right corner.
    3. Scroll down to see pending updates and update Chrome if available.
Pro Tip: For persistent issues, consider creating a new user profile in Chrome. This action can help isolate the problem from your current profile settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes ERR_HTTP2_PROTOCOL_ERROR?

This error is typically caused by issues with the HTTP/2 protocol, such as corrupted cache, outdated browser versions, or network conflicts.

Does clearing cache affect saved passwords?

No, clearing the cache does not affect saved passwords or autofill information. It only removes temporary data stored by the browser.

Can extensions cause ERR_HTTP2_PROTOCOL_ERROR?

Yes, conflicting or outdated extensions can cause the HTTP/2 protocol error. Disabling them can help identify and resolve the issue.

Is it safe to reset the network stack?

The Windows and Mac commands above reset network settings and clear the DNS cache. They do not touch your files or browsing data.

How often should I update Chrome?

It’s recommended to keep Chrome updated at all times to ensure optimal performance and security. Check for updates regularly.