ERR_NETWORK_CHANGEDGoogle Chrome

How to Fix ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED (Google Chrome)

Quick Answer

The ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED error in Google Chrome indicates that your internet connection status changed unexpectedly while a web page was loading or an active connection was maintained. This often occurs due to network instability, IP address changes, or issues with network adapters. The fastest fix is often to restart your router and computer to reset network configurations.

What Causes This Error

Unstable or intermittent internet connection.
IP address changes from your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or local network.
Issues with network adapter drivers or settings.
Interference from VPNs, proxy servers, or antivirus software.
Corrupted browser cache or extensions.
DNS server problems.

Step-by-Step Fixes

1Restart Network Devices and Computer to Resolve ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED

Unplug your router and modem from their power outlets.
Wait for at least 30 seconds to allow the devices to fully discharge.
Plug the modem back in and wait for all indicator lights to stabilize.
Plug the router back in and wait for its indicator lights to stabilize.
Restart your computer or device and then attempt to access the website again in Google Chrome.

2Clear Browser Data in Google Chrome

Open Google Chrome, click the three-dot menu icon in the top-right corner, and select 'More tools' > 'Clear browsing data'.
Set the 'Time range' to 'All time'.
Ensure 'Cached images and files' and 'Cookies and other site data' are checked. Optionally, check 'Browsing history'.
Click the 'Clear data' button.
Close and reopen Chrome, then try to access the website.

3Disable Browser Extensions

Open Google Chrome, click the three-dot menu icon, and select 'More tools' > 'Extensions'.
Toggle off each extension one by one to disable them.
After disabling an extension, attempt to access the website to see if the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED error persists.
If the error resolves, re-enable extensions one by one to identify the problematic extension.
Remove or keep disabled any extension that causes the error.

4Flush DNS Cache and Reset Network Settings

Open the Command Prompt as an administrator: Search for 'cmd' in the Start menu, right-click 'Command Prompt', and select 'Run as administrator'.
Type 'ipconfig /flushdns' and press Enter to clear the DNS resolver cache.
Type 'netsh int ip reset' and press Enter to reset TCP/IP settings.
Type 'netsh winsock reset' and press Enter to reset the Winsock catalog.
Restart your computer for the changes to take effect, then re-test Chrome.

Advanced Fixes

Update Network Adapter Drivers

Open Device Manager: Right-click the Start button and select 'Device Manager'.
Expand 'Network adapters'.
Right-click on your primary network adapter (e.g., Wi-Fi or Ethernet adapter) and select 'Update driver'.
Choose 'Search automatically for updated driver software'.
If Windows does not find a new driver, visit your computer manufacturer's or network adapter manufacturer's website to download the latest driver manually and install it.

Change DNS Server Settings

Open Network Connections: Search for 'Network Connections' in the Start menu and select 'View network connections'.
Right-click on your active network adapter (e.g., Wi-Fi or Ethernet) 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' for 'Preferred DNS server' and '8.8.4.4' for 'Alternate DNS server' (Google Public DNS). Alternatively, use '1.1.1.1' and '1.0.0.1' (Cloudflare DNS).
Click 'OK' on both windows to save changes and restart your browser.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED mean?

The ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED error indicates that Google Chrome detected an unexpected change in your device's network connection while it was trying to load a page or maintain a connection. This can happen due to a temporary loss of internet, an IP address change, or issues with your network configuration.

Why does my network keep changing?

Your network might be changing due to several reasons, including an unstable Wi-Fi signal, frequent IP address reassignments by your ISP, conflicts with other network devices, or interference from VPNs, proxy servers, or security software that modifies network settings.

Will restarting my router fix ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED?

Yes, restarting your router and modem is often an effective first step. It can resolve temporary network glitches, refresh your IP address, and clear any cached network data that might be causing the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED error.

Can antivirus software cause ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED?

Yes, certain antivirus programs or firewalls can sometimes interfere with network connections, especially if they have features like network protection or web filtering. Temporarily disabling your antivirus to test if the error resolves can help identify if it's the cause.

Is ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED a problem with my computer or my internet?

The ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED error can stem from either your computer's network configuration, your local network equipment (router/modem), or your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Troubleshooting steps often involve addressing all three potential areas to identify the root cause.