How to Fix ERR_CONNECTION_RESET in Chrome [2026 Guide]

What Is ERR_CONNECTION_RESET in Chrome?

The ERR_CONNECTION_RESET error in Google Chrome appears when your browser establishes a connection to a website but the connection is abruptly terminated before data can be exchanged. This typically manifests as a blank page or a “This site can’t be reached” message with the error code net::ERR_CONNECTION_RESET.

This error is often caused by network configuration issues, interfering software, or corrupted browser settings. Most causes are fixable from your end without needing advanced technical skills. Below we cover the most effective solutions.

Method 1: Check Your Proxy Settings

Chrome uses your system’s proxy settings by default. If a proxy was previously configured and left enabled, it can interfere with new connections and trigger the ERR_CONNECTION_RESET error.

1. Open the Control Panel and go to Network and Internet > Internet Options.
2. Navigate to the Connections tab and click LAN settings.
3. Uncheck Use a proxy server for your LAN and ensure Automatically detect settings is checked.
4. Click OK and restart Chrome.

Method 2: Renew Your IP Address

An expired or invalid IP address assignment can cause connection resets. Releasing and renewing your IP forces your computer to request a fresh address from your router.

1. Press Windows Key + X and select Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
2. Type ipconfig /release and press Enter to release your current IP.
3. Type ipconfig /renew and press Enter to obtain a new IP address.
4. Type ipconfig /flushdns to clear the DNS cache.
5. Restart your computer and check Chrome.

Method 3: Temporarily Disable Antivirus or Firewall

Overprotective antivirus software or Windows Defender Firewall can sometimes block legitimate connections. Temporarily disabling them helps isolate the cause.

Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall > Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off. Select Turn off Windows Defender Firewall for both private and public networks as a test. If the error disappears, add Chrome as an allowed app through the firewall instead of leaving it disabled permanently.

Note: Only disable your firewall temporarily for testing. Re-enable it once you have identified the cause.

Method 4: Clear Chrome Cache and Cookies

Corrupted cached data is a common trigger for connection resets. Clearing your browsing data gives Chrome a fresh start.

1. Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and go to Settings.
2. Navigate to Privacy and security > Clear browsing data.
3. Select All time as the time range, check Cached images and files and Cookies and other site data, then click Clear data.

Method 5: Reset Google Chrome to Default Settings

If none of the above steps resolve the error, resetting Chrome to its factory defaults can fix deeper configuration issues without deleting your bookmarks or saved passwords.

1. Click the three-dot menu and go to Settings.
2. Click Reset settings in the left sidebar.
3. Select Restore settings to their original defaults and confirm.

Method 6: Disable Problematic Extensions

Some Chrome extensions, particularly VPN or security extensions, can interfere with network connections. Open chrome://extensions/ in a new tab and toggle off all extensions. Re-enable them one by one to identify the culprit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does ERR_CONNECTION_RESET mean?
It means Chrome established a TCP connection to the server but the server or an intermediary device (firewall, proxy, antivirus) terminated it before the HTTP request completed.

Is ERR_CONNECTION_RESET caused by my internet provider?
Rarely. It is almost always a local issue with proxy settings, firewall rules, antivirus software, or a corrupted Chrome profile.

Will resetting Chrome delete my bookmarks?
No. The reset option preserves bookmarks, history, and saved passwords while restoring startup pages, new tab page, search engine, and pinned tabs to defaults.

Conclusion

The ERR_CONNECTION_RESET Chrome error is frustrating but almost always solvable with the methods above. Start with the proxy settings check – it resolves the majority of cases. If the problem persists, work through the remaining steps in order. For more Chrome troubleshooting tips, check out our guides on increasing internet speed in Windows 10 and making Chrome more secure and faster. You may also find our WiFi password recovery guide and best ad blocker extensions for Chrome useful for improving your overall browsing experience.