Google Chrome Error Code ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED: How to Fix It

Easy 10-20 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED
Brand
Google Chrome
Product Type
browser
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
10-20 minutes
The ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error in Google Chrome means the server you're trying to reach actively rejected your connection request. This typically happens when the website's server is down, your firewall is blocking the connection, or there's a network configuration issue.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED

  1. Check if the website is down

  2. Try a different browser or device

  3. Clear Chrome's browser data

  4. Disable antivirus and firewall temporarily

    Remember to re-enable your security software after testing. Only visit trusted websites while protection is disabled.

  5. Reset network settings

  6. Check proxy settings

  7. Reset Chrome settings

    This will reset your homepage, search engine, and disable all extensions. Your bookmarks and passwords will remain saved.

  8. Try connecting via mobile hotspot

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When to Call a Professional

Contact a network administrator or IT professional if the error persists across all devices on your network, or if you're unable to access multiple websites after trying all troubleshooting steps. For business networks, this may indicate server-side issues that require professional diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED mean in Chrome?
ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED means the server actively rejected your connection attempt. This usually happens when the website's server is down, overloaded, or configured to block certain connections.
Can antivirus software cause ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED?
Yes, overly aggressive antivirus software or firewall settings can block legitimate connections and cause this error. Try temporarily disabling your security software to test if it's the cause.
Why do I get ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED on some sites but not others?
This typically means those specific websites are experiencing server issues, have blocked your IP address, or your ISP is filtering access to certain sites. Try accessing the sites from a different network to confirm.
How do I fix ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED permanently?
The permanent fix depends on the root cause. Common solutions include updating Chrome, clearing browser data, checking firewall settings, and ensuring your network connection is stable. If the issue persists, the problem may be on the website's end.
Can a VPN help with ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED errors?
Yes, a VPN can help if your ISP is blocking the website or if there are regional restrictions. However, if the website's server is actually down, a VPN won't resolve the issue.

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