How to Fix ERR_CONNECTION_RESET (Web Browser)
Quick Answer
The ERR_CONNECTION_RESET error indicates that your web browser's connection to the website was unexpectedly terminated by the server. Often, this can be resolved by checking your internet connection or temporarily disabling your firewall or antivirus software.
What Causes This Error
- Interference from firewall or antivirus software blocking the connection.
- Issues with your internet connection or network configuration.
- Corrupted browser cache or cookies.
- Proxy server settings interfering with the connection.
- Server-side issues on the website you are trying to access.
- Outdated or misconfigured network drivers.
Step-by-Step Fixes
1Check Your Internet Connection and Restart Network Devices
- Verify that your device is connected to the internet. Attempt to access other websites to confirm general connectivity.
- Unplug your modem and router from their power sources.
- Wait for approximately 30 seconds.
- Plug the modem back in and wait for it to fully power on and establish an internet connection (indicated by stable lights).
- Plug the router back in and wait for it to fully power on and establish a network connection.
- Once all devices are online, attempt to access the website again.
2Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
- Open your web browser's settings or preferences menu.
- Navigate to the 'Privacy and security' or 'Clear browsing data' section.
- Select 'Cached images and files' and 'Cookies and other site data'. Ensure the time range is set to 'All time'.
- Click the button to clear the data.
- Restart your browser and attempt to access the website.
3Temporarily Disable Firewall or Antivirus Software
- Locate your computer's firewall or antivirus software settings.
- Temporarily disable the firewall or real-time protection feature. The exact steps vary by software.
- With the software temporarily disabled, attempt to access the website.
- If the website loads, re-enable your firewall and antivirus software. You may need to add an exception for your browser or the specific website within the software's settings.
- If the issue persists after re-enabling, consult your firewall/antivirus documentation for specific troubleshooting or exception configuration.
4Disable Proxy Server Settings
- Open your computer's network settings. On Windows, go to 'Settings' > 'Network & Internet' > 'Proxy'. On macOS, go to 'System Settings' > 'Network' > select your active network interface > 'Details' > 'Proxies'.
- Ensure that 'Automatically detect settings' is enabled and 'Use a proxy server' (or similar manual proxy settings) is disabled.
- If a proxy server was manually configured, disable it.
- Save any changes and close the network settings.
- Restart your web browser and attempt to access the website.
Advanced Fixes
Flush DNS Cache and Reset TCP/IP
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator. On Windows, search for 'cmd', right-click 'Command Prompt', and select 'Run as administrator'.
- In the Command Prompt window, type 'ipconfig /flushdns' and press Enter. This clears the DNS resolver cache.
- Next, type 'netsh winsock reset' and press Enter. This resets the Winsock catalog.
- Then, type 'netsh int ip reset' and press Enter. This resets TCP/IP settings.
- Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
- After restarting, attempt to access the website.
Update Network Drivers
- Open Device Manager. On Windows, right-click the Start button and select 'Device Manager'.
- Expand the 'Network adapters' category.
- Right-click on your network adapter (e.g., Ethernet or Wi-Fi adapter) and select 'Update driver'.
- Choose 'Search automatically for updated driver software' and follow the on-screen prompts.
- If no new drivers are found, visit your computer manufacturer's or network adapter manufacturer's website to download and install the latest drivers manually.
- Restart your computer after updating drivers and then retest the connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ERR_CONNECTION_RESET mean?
ERR_CONNECTION_RESET means that the connection between your web browser and the server hosting the website was abruptly closed. This can happen due to various reasons, including network issues, firewall interference, or server problems.
Is ERR_CONNECTION_RESET a problem with my computer or the website?
The ERR_CONNECTION_RESET error can originate from either your local computer's network configuration, your internet service provider, or the server hosting the website. Troubleshooting typically starts with local fixes before considering server-side issues.
Will restarting my router fix ERR_CONNECTION_RESET?
Yes, restarting your router and modem can often resolve ERR_CONNECTION_RESET. This process clears temporary network glitches and re-establishes a fresh connection to your internet service provider, which can resolve underlying network communication problems.
How can I prevent ERR_CONNECTION_RESET in the future?
To minimize future occurrences, ensure your network drivers are up to date, keep your browser software current, and configure your firewall and antivirus software to allow proper web traffic without excessive blocking. Regularly clearing your browser's cache can also help.