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

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






How to Fix the ERR_CONNECTION_RESET Error: Step-by-Step Guide

Resolve the common ERR_CONNECTION_RESET error, which occurs when the connection between your browser and a website is interrupted. Learn simple solutions like checking your network, clearing browser cache, and disabling problematic extensions, alongside more technical fixes like resetting TCP/IP settings or DNS configurations. Use our free chatbot for step-by-step guidance on resolving technical issues effectively.

Key Takeaways

  • ERR_CONNECTION_RESET is a common error that indicates the connection between your browser and the website was interrupted.
  • The problem can originate from local network issues, browser settings, DNS misconfigurations, or even the website’s server.
  • Simple solutions include checking your network connectivity, refreshing the page, clearing browser cache, resetting TCP/IP settings, and temporarily disabling antivirus or firewall programs.
  • More advanced strategies include manually resetting DNS cache, updating Google Chrome, and resetting network adapters.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing the “ERR_CONNECTION_RESET” Error

If you’re consistently encountering the “ERR_CONNECTION_RESET” error while browsing, it can be incredibly frustrating. But worry not — follow these clear steps to troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively.

1. Check Network Connectivity

Before diving deep into complex fixes, first verify if your internet connection is functioning properly.

Steps:

  • Visit a few other websites besides the problematic one. Check if these load correctly.
  • Test your internet using a service like Speedtest.
  • Run a ping test:
    • On Windows: Open Command Prompt, type ping google.com and hit Enter.
    • On Mac: Open Terminal, type the same command, and press Enter.
    • If there are packet losses, your internet may be facing issues.

2. Refresh the Web Page

Sometimes, the simplest fix is the correct one. The error may just be a temporary web glitch.

Steps:

  • Hit the refresh button on your browser (F5 on your keyboard).
  • Wait a few seconds to see if the issue resolves itself.

3. Clear Browser Cache

A corrupted browser cache can commonly cause ERR_CONNECTION_RESET issues.

For Google Chrome:

  1. Click the three-dot menu (top-right).
  2. Navigate to Settings > Privacy and Security > Clear browsing data.
  3. Set the time range to All time.
  4. Select Cached images and files along with other data you wish to delete.
  5. Click Clear data.

For Microsoft Edge:

  1. Click the three-dot menu.
  2. Follow the same path: Settings > Privacy, search, and services > Clear browsing data.
  3. Again, set the time range to All time and click Clear.

4. Reset TCP/IP Settings

If none of the above works, resetting your TCP/IP stack can often clear up any lingering network issues. To ensure the issue isn’t caused by outdated network drivers, consider using EaseUS DriverHandy to easily scan and update your PC’s network drivers.

Steps for Windows:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Type each of the following commands, one at a time, and hit Enter: 
    netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns
  3. Restart your machine and check whether the issue persists.

Expert Tip: If you’re comfortable with the Terminal on Mac, TCP/IP resets can also be triggered, though it’s done differently.

5. Disable Browser Extensions

Browser extensions, while useful, can interfere with certain websites and trigger connectivity errors.

In Google Chrome:

  1. Click the three-dot menu.
  2. Select Extensions.
  3. Toggle off each extension individually.
  4. Restart your browser and check if the connection is restored by testing the website again.

For Microsoft Edge:

  1. Click the three-dot menu.
  2. Navigate to Extensions and disable each one.

6. Disable Firewall and Antivirus Software

At times, aggressive firewall settings or antivirus software might stop you from connecting to specific websites. If you suspect your antivirus is the issue, try switching to a reliable option like Malwarebytes Premium, which balances security with minimal interference.

Steps:

  • Temporarily disable your antivirus by right-clicking its icon in the system tray and selecting Disable protection.
  • If you’re using Windows Defender Firewall, navigate to:
    • Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall > Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off.
    • Disable it (temporarily) for both public and private networks.
  • See if the website loads without the protection layers. Don’t forget to turn them back on after testing.

7. Reset DNS Cache

An outdated DNS cache can also cause connection resets. Resetting it might bring relief! To further enhance DNS reliability and security, use NordVPN for encrypted DNS queries.

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Type: 
    ipconfig /flushdns
  3. Hit Enter, restart, and retry accessing the website.

8. Reset Network Adapter

Still facing the problem? Your network adapter’s configuration might need a reset.

Steps:

  1. Go to Settings on Windows.
  2. Navigate to Network & Internet > Advanced network settings.
  3. Look for Network reset, click on Reset now, and follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. Restart your computer.

9. Check for Website Uptime

If all else fails, the problem could be entirely out of your hands — the website might be down.

How to Check:

10. Restart Your Internet Connection

A simple but effective solution: restart everything.

Steps:

  1. Power down your computer, modem, and router.
  2. Wait a full minute before turning them all back on.
  3. Once everything is back online, try accessing the website again.

Additional Expert-Level Tips

Keep Your Browser Updated

Ensure you’re running the latest version of your browser. Regular updates come with important fixes that help resolve security and connectivity problems. If browsing security is a concern, consider adding NordPass for secure password management and browsing.

  • For Google Chrome, go to three-dot menu > Help > About Google Chrome. Install updates if available.

Perform a Full Malware Scan

Network interruptions could also hint at malware infections. Run a deep scan using reputable antivirus software to ensure your system isn’t compromised.

FAQs for ERR_CONNECTION_RESET

1. What causes the ERR_CONNECTION_RESET error?

Various factors can trigger the error, including network interruptions, DNS problems, browser cache issues, or malfunctioning extensions.

2. Is my internet connection causing the problem?

Possibly. Perform a ping test to check the stability of your connection. If the test fails or shows packet loss, your connection could be the culprit.

3. Will clearing my browser cache fix the issue?

In many cases, yes! A corrupt cache file might be preventing proper website loading. Clearing it often helps.

4. Do I need administrator access to reset TCP/IP settings?

Yes. On Windows, you need to open the Command Prompt as an administrator to reset TCP/IP configurations.

5. Can an antivirus interfere with my network connection?

Yes, sometimes overly strict security settings or firewalls can block valid connections. Disabling the antivirus or firewall temporarily can help troubleshoot. For a better balance of protection and compatibility, try Malwarebytes Premium.

6. What if the error happens on just one site?

The website you’re trying to visit might be down. Check its availability using uptime checkers like Is It Down Right Now.

By following these steps, the “ERR_CONNECTION_RESET” error should no longer stand between you and uninterrupted browsing.

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