How to fix “ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED”. Step-by-Step Guide

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How to fix “ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED”. Step-by-Step Guide






How to Fix the "ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED" Error: Simple Steps

Learn how to resolve the "ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED" error in your browser. This error often occurs due to network issues, cache problems, or VPN/firewall interference. Ensure your internet works, reset network settings, clear your DNS and browser cache, or update your browser to fix the issue. For other technical issues, try our free chatbot for support.

Key Takeaways: Solving the “ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED” Error

  1. Check Your Internet Connection: Ensure your router and cables are working properly.
  2. Reset Network Settings: Perform a reset of the network configuration on Windows or macOS.
  3. Clear DNS and Browser Cache: Flushing the DNS cache and clearing browsing data can often fix connection errors.
  4. Disable/Enable VPN: Verify if VPN usage is causing the issue.
  5. Temporarily Disable Firewall and Antivirus: Security software could be blocking access and needs to be tested temporarily offline.
  6. Switch to Google DNS: Using Google’s public DNS may help establish the connection.
  7. Update or Reinstall Chrome: Outdated or corrupted browser installations can be the root cause.
  8. Run a Malware Scan: Malware may be blocking your connection.
  9. Consult with the Website: The issue might be server-side, and it’s worth contacting the site owner to confirm.

How to Fix the “ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED” Error: Step-by-Step Guide

When the “ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED” message appears in your browser, it indicates that your connection to the site was unexpectedly terminated. This could be caused by several factors, ranging from network configuration to the website’s server being down. As an expert, I’ll guide you through each step to pinpoint and resolve the cause of the problem.

Step 1: Check Your Internet Connection

Before delving into more technical fixes, it’s essential to ensure that your internet connection is stable.

  • Restart Your Router:
    Unplug the power cord from your router, and wait for at least 60 seconds. Plug it back in and wait for it to fully reboot. This can resolve temporary network issues.

    Pro Tip: If your connection remains unstable or blocked, try using NordVPN to bypass ISP throttling or restrictions that might be causing the issue.

  • Check Cables:
    A loose or faulty cable can disrupt your connection. Ensure that all cables between your modem, router, and computer are securely plugged in.

  • Run Speed Test:

Visit Speedtest.net. Test your connection speed and see if it’s unusually slow or interrupted. If your internet connection is the problem, your ISP may be at fault.

Step 2: Reset Network Settings

Sometimes network settings can become corrupted, which may cause the “ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED” issue.

Windows:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run the following commands one by one: 
    netsh int ip reset
netsh winsock reset

    This resets your network adapters and TCP/IP stack.

Mac:

  • Open System Preferences and navigate to Network.
  • Select your network connection, go to the TCP/IP tab, and choose Renew DHCP Lease.

Step 3: Clear DNS Cache

Clearing the DNS cache ensures there are no outdated Domain Name System entries that could be causing the error.

Windows:

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator and type: 
    ipconfig/flushdns

Mac:

  • Open Terminal and execute: 
    sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

This flushes the DNS cache and reloads fresh data.

Step 4: Clear Browser Cache

Corrupted or outdated cached files can conflict with internet connections.

Google Chrome:

  • Open Chrome and click on the three-dot menu (top-right corner).
  • Navigate to More tools > Clear browsing data.
  • Select a time range (ensure you choose “All time”), check all options, and click Clear data.

For more in-depth info, check Google’s official guide on clearing browser cache.

Step 5: Disable or Enable Your VPN

VPN-related issues are one of the common causes of the “ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED” error.

  • If you’re using a VPN, try disabling it to see if the problem resolves.
  • Alternatively, if your ISP or workplace is blocking the website, enabling a VPN could help bypass the restriction.

To disable a VPN in Chrome, navigate to Settings > Extensions, and turn off the VPN-related extension.

Step 6: Temporarily Disable Your Firewall and Antivirus

Your firewall or antivirus may be blocking your connection.

Windows:

  • Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security.
  • Select Firewall & network protection, and then toggle off Microsoft Defender Firewall.

Mac:

  • Navigate to System Preferences > Security & Privacy and disable the Firewall.

Important: After testing, re-enable your firewall and antivirus to maintain security.

Step 7: Use Google Public DNS

The default DNS servers provided by your ISP may sometimes have trouble resolving domain names. Switching to Google’s public DNS can solve this problem:

  • Windows and Mac:
    Set your DNS server address to 8.8.8.8 (primary) and 8.8.4.4 (secondary).

    For a detailed guide, check Google’s DNS setup instructions.

    Pro Tip: Optimize your system for faster DNS and internet performance with tools like EaseUS DupFiles Cleaner, which can remove redundant files and improve network responsiveness.

Step 8: Update or Reinstall Google Chrome

Outdated or corrupt browser installations could also be responsible for the error.

  • Update Chrome:
    Open Chrome, click Menu (3 dots) > Help > About Google Chrome. It will check for updates automatically, and if one is available, it will be installed.

  • Reinstall Chrome:
    If updating does not work, uninstall Chrome completely and reinstall the latest version from the Google Chrome download page.

Step 9: Run Chrome’s Built-in Cleanup Tool (Windows Only)

Chrome has a built-in tool to remove malicious software that may interfere with browser performance.

  • Go to Settings > Advanced > Reset and cleanup > Clean up computer.
  • Follow the prompts to remove harmful programs.

More info available on Google’s Help Page.

Step 10: Run a Malware Scan

Malware or malicious programs can hijack your internet connection and prevent access to certain websites.

  • Use a reliable virus and malware scanner like Malwarebytes to scan your system and remove any threats.

Step 11: Contact the Website’s Owner

If none of the steps resolve the issue, the problem might be with the website itself.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What is the “ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED” error?
    The error occurs when your browser fails to connect to a website due to an unexpected termination of the connection.

  2. Can a VPN cause this error?
    Yes, VPN interference or conflicts can lead to the “ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED” message.

  3. Does clearing my DNS cache fix this issue?

In many cases, clearing the DNS cache may resolve the error by resetting outdated DNS information.

  1. Can antivirus software block my connection?
    Yes, overly aggressive antivirus software or firewall settings could interfere with your internet connection.

  2. How often should I update my browser?
    It’s best to keep your browser up-to-date at all times to avoid bugs and security issues.

By following this comprehensive guide, resolving the “ERR_CONNECTION_CLOSED” error should be much easier.

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