ERR_EMPTY_RESPONSEGoogle Chrome

How to Fix ERR_EMPTY_RESPONSE (Google Chrome)

Quick Answer

The ERR_EMPTY_RESPONSE error indicates that the browser received no data from the server, suggesting a connection issue or server problem. The fastest fix often involves clearing browser data or checking network connectivity.

What Causes This Error

Temporary network issues or unstable internet connection.
Corrupted browser cache, cookies, or other site data.
Issues with DNS resolution or DNS server configuration.
Problems with browser extensions interfering with network requests.
Antivirus or firewall software blocking network traffic.
Outdated browser software or operating system.
Server-side issues where the website itself is not responding or is misconfigured.

Step-by-Step Fixes

1Clear Browser Data to Resolve ERR_EMPTY_RESPONSE

Open Google Chrome.
Click the three vertical dots (More actions) in the top-right corner of the browser window.
Navigate to 'More tools' > 'Clear browsing data'.
In the 'Clear browsing data' window, select a 'Time range' (e.g., 'All time' for a comprehensive clear).
Ensure 'Cookies and other site data' and 'Cached images and files' are checked.
Click the 'Clear data' button.
Restart Chrome and attempt to access the website again.

2Check Your Internet Connection and Restart Network Devices

Verify that your device is connected to the internet. Try accessing 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 all indicator lights to stabilize (usually 1-2 minutes).
Plug the router back in and wait for its indicator lights to stabilize (usually 1-2 minutes).
Reconnect your device to the network and attempt to access the website.

3Disable Browser Extensions

Open Google Chrome.
Click the three vertical dots (More actions) in the top-right corner.
Navigate to 'More tools' > 'Extensions'.
Toggle off each extension one by one by clicking the blue switch.
After disabling an extension, try accessing the website to see if the ERR_EMPTY_RESPONSE error is resolved.
If the error disappears, re-enable extensions one by one to identify the problematic extension. Keep the identified extension disabled or remove it.

4Flush DNS Cache and Renew IP Address

Open the 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. A confirmation message 'Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache' will appear.
Next, type 'ipconfig /release' and press Enter.
Then, type 'ipconfig /renew' and press Enter.
Close the Command Prompt and restart your web browser. Attempt to visit the problematic website.

Advanced Fixes

Change DNS Servers

Open 'Network & Internet settings'. On Windows, right-click the network icon in the system tray and select 'Open Network & Internet settings'.
Click 'Change adapter options' or 'Change adapter settings'.
Right-click on your active network connection (e.g., 'Ethernet' or 'Wi-Fi') and select 'Properties'.
Select 'Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)' and click 'Properties'.
Select 'Use the following DNS server addresses'.
Enter '8.8.8.8' as the 'Preferred DNS server' and '8.8.4.4' as the 'Alternate DNS server' (Google Public DNS).
Click 'OK' on both windows to save changes.
Restart your browser and test the website.

Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Access your computer's firewall settings. On Windows, search for 'Windows Defender Firewall' in the Start menu.
Check if Chrome or your web traffic is being blocked. If necessary, temporarily disable the firewall or antivirus software to test if it resolves the issue.
If disabling resolves the issue, add an exception for Google Chrome in your firewall/antivirus settings or adjust its rules to allow network access.
Remember to re-enable your firewall and antivirus software after testing to maintain system security.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does ERR_EMPTY_RESPONSE mean?

ERR_EMPTY_RESPONSE indicates that your browser initiated a request to a website but received no data in return. This suggests a communication breakdown where the server either failed to respond or sent an empty response, preventing the webpage from loading.

Is ERR_EMPTY_RESPONSE a problem with my computer or the website?

The ERR_EMPTY_RESPONSE error can originate from either your local system (e.g., network issues, browser problems, firewall interference) or the website's server (e.g., server downtime, misconfiguration). Troubleshooting involves checking both possibilities.

Will restarting my computer help fix ERR_EMPTY_RESPONSE?

Yes, restarting your computer can often resolve temporary software glitches, clear out network stack issues, and refresh system resources that might be contributing to the ERR_EMPTY_RESPONSE error. It is a common first step in troubleshooting.

How often does ERR_EMPTY_RESPONSE occur?

The frequency of ERR_EMPTY_RESPONSE can vary. It might occur rarely due to transient network issues, or more frequently if there's a persistent problem with your browser, network configuration, or a specific website's server. Regular browser maintenance can help reduce its occurrence.