How to fix ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED on Chrome?

ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED is a common error generated by Google Chrome when an unspecified issue prevents access to a website.

Dealing with an error that lacks clear clues can be frustrating. There are numerous potential causes for this issue, but we’ll focus on the most prevalent ones and how to troubleshoot them. Further details are provided below for your reference.

What does ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED mean?

When Chrome shows you “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED,” it means your browser is unable to establish a connection to the website you’re trying to reach. It doesn’t pinpoint the exact issue, leaving you stranded with just a vague error message.

This error typically occurs when Chrome attempts to connect to a website but encounters resistance. Instead of loading the website, Chrome displays the error message, indicating that something is blocking the connection. The exact cause can vary widely, ranging from issues with your browser settings to network problems or even issues on the website’s server side.

How does ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED look on different browsers?

You won’t see “ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED” on other browsers like Firefox or Safari. They have their own error messages indicating similar connection problems. Firefox, for instance, might display “Unable to connect,” while Safari might state “Safari Can’t Connect to the Server” without further details.

This differentiation in error messages across browsers underscores the need to understand each browser’s specific error handling. While the underlying connection issues may be similar, the exact error message you see can vary based on the browser’s interpretation of the problem.

Common Causes of ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED Error

The error isn’t always your fault; it can stem from various sources:

• Expired cache and cookies: Sometimes, your browser’s stored files (like cache and cookies) expire or get corrupted, causing this error. Clearing your cache and cookies can often resolve this issue, allowing Chrome to establish a fresh connection to the website.
• Network or device issues: Problems with your computer, router, or network connectivity can also trigger this error. It could be a temporary glitch in your internet connection or a more persistent issue with your network setup.
• Firewall or antivirus software: Overprotective security software might mistakenly block access to the website, interpreting it as a potential security threat. Temporarily disabling these programs can help you determine if they’re causing the connection issue.
• Proxy server or VPN settings: If you use a proxy or VPN, their settings could interfere with website connections. Disabling them temporarily or adjusting their settings may resolve the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error.
• DNS issues: Problems with DNS cache or server settings can also lead to this error. Flushing your DNS cache or switching to a different DNS server (like Google or Cloudflare) can often fix DNS-related connection problems. Additionally, using ddos protected dedicated server hosting can provide an extra layer of security, helping to mitigate potential DNS issues caused by malicious attacks.

Identifying the specific cause of the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error is crucial to applying the correct solution. By understanding these common sources of the error, you can systematically troubleshoot and resolve the issue, ensuring a smoother browsing experience. For those using WordPress, opting for the best host for WordPress can significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering such errors due to superior server reliability and support.

Pro Tips:

If you’re encountering the “err_connection_refused” error message in your Chrome browser, there are several potential causes to consider.

• First, check your internet connection and ensure it’s stable. 
• Sometimes, issues with DNS cache or DNS server addresses can cause the err_connection_refused.
• It’s also worth disabling any proxy server settings that might interfere.
• Browser cache and operating system settings can sometimes clash with Chrome extensions or firewall and antivirus software, so adjusting these configurations might resolve the issue.
• Additionally, verify your IP address and consider using public DNS addresses if needed to bypass potential DNS-related problems.

By understanding the common causes and applying systematic fixes, you can ensure a smoother browsing experience.

How to fix the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error

Here are some steps to troubleshoot and fix this issue:

Quick fixes for visitors

1. Clear browser cache and cookies:

Sometimes, a simple restart of your computer or router can magically solve connection issues. It resets network configurations and clears temporary glitches that may be causing the error.

This often resolves temporary glitches. Your browser stores cached files and cookies to speed up browsing, but these can sometimes become corrupted or outdated, leading to connection errors.

• Desktop browsers: Navigate to your browser settings, find the option to clear browsing data, and select cache and cookies.
• Mobile devices: Settings may vary; consult your device’s browser settings or app preferences to clear cache and cookies.

2. Test on other websites:

Check if the error persists on different websites. If it’s site-specific, the problem might lie with the website itself rather than your browser or network setup.

3. Restart your devices:

Sometimes, a simple restart of your computer or router can magically solve connection issues. It resets network configurations and clears temporary glitches that may be causing the error. You can choose any suitable managed vps hosting to get advanced features.

4. Check your internet connection:

Switch networks (like from Wi-Fi to mobile data) to see if the error persists. If the error stops on a different network, the problem may be with your Wi-Fi setup or ISP.

5. Disable firewall or antivirus:

Temporarily turn off these programs to see if they’re blocking the connection. They can sometimes be overly cautious and mistakenly block legitimate website access. For additional insights on preventing brute force attacks, check out our article on how to prevent brute force attacks in WordPress.

6. Disable proxy server or VPN:

These might be affecting your connection. Try disabling them temporarily to see if the website loads without the error. Adjusting proxy or VPN settings may also help resolve connectivity issues. 

Flush DNS cache:

Refresh your DNS cache to ensure it’s not causing the error. DNS caches store recent DNS lookups to speed up browsing, but outdated entries can cause connection problems.

• MacOS: Use Terminal to flush DNS cache (sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder).
• Windows: Open Command Prompt as admin and enter ipconfig /flushdns.

7. Change DNS server:

Switch to Google or Cloudflare DNS servers to see if it resolves the issue. Sometimes, your ISP’s DNS servers may encounter temporary issues, causing connection errors.

• Google DNS: Primary: 8.8.8.8, Secondary: 8.8.4.4
• Cloudflare DNS: Primary: 1.1.1.1, Secondary: 1.0.0.1

8. Turn off Google Sync:

Sometimes, Chrome sync can cause conflicts with browsing. Temporarily turn off sync to see if it resolves the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error.

• Navigate to Chrome settings, go to “You and Google,” and disable sync temporarily.

9. Disable browser extensions:

Extensions can sometimes interfere with website connections. Disable them one by one to identify if a specific extension is causing the error. You can disable extensions in Chrome or opera settings under “More Tools > Extensions.”

10. Reinstall Browser:

If nothing else works, reinstalling Chrome or other browser can fix any corrupted installation issues. Uninstall Chrome from your computer, download the latest version from the official website, and install it again.

11. Check hosts file:

Make sure there are no incorrect entries in your hosts file blocking the website. The hosts file can override DNS settings and block access to specific websites. A dedicated server can offer better performance and help prevent issues like the ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error. If you encounter connection issues beyond ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED, you might also find it helpful to learn about how to fix an SSH Connection Refused Error.

Fixing ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED on a WordPress website

If you manage a WordPress site and encounter this error, try these additional steps:

1. Disable plugins:

WordPress plugins can sometimes clash, causing this error. Deactivate them one by one to find the plugin causing the issue..

• Log in to your WordPress dashboard, navigate to Plugins > Installed Plugins, select all plugins, choose “Deactivate” from the bulk actions menu, and apply.

2. Change theme:

Switch to a default theme to see if your current theme is causing the issue. Sometimes, theme updates or conflicts with plugins can lead to connection errors.

• Go to Appearance > Themes in your WordPress dashboard and activate a default theme (like Twenty Twenty-One).

3. Increase PHP max_execution_time:

Sometimes, PHP scripts timeout causing this error. Increase the max_execution_time in your PHP settings. Contact your hosting provider for assistance if needed.

• Edit your php.ini file or use PHP settings in your hosting control panel to increase max_execution_time.

4. Contact hosting provider:

If all else fails, your hosting provider may need to check server-side issues. They can verify server logs, firewall settings, or any IP blocks that might be causing the connection error.

Conclusion

Dealing with ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED can be frustrating, but with these troubleshooting steps, you can usually pinpoint and resolve the issue causing the blockage. By understanding the common causes and applying systematic fixes, you can ensure a smoother browsing experience and troubleshoot effectively when encountering this error.