How to Fix ERR_CONNECTION_TIMED_OUT (Google Chrome)

Quick Answer: The ERR_CONNECTION_TIMED_OUT error indicates that your browser attempted to connect to a web server but did not receive a response within a predefined time limit. This often points to network connectivity issues, server unavailability, or local firewall/proxy interference. The fastest fix is to check your internet connection and try accessing other websites.

What Causes This Error

Step-by-Step Fixes

Fix 1: Fix 1: Check Internet Connection and Router

Open a new tab and try accessing a different, reliable website (e.g., google.com, wikipedia.org). If other sites also fail, your internet connection is likely the issue.,Ensure your Wi-Fi is connected or your Ethernet cable is securely plugged in.,Unplug your router and modem from their power outlets. Wait 30 seconds.,Plug the modem back in and wait for its indicator lights to stabilize (usually 1-2 minutes).,Plug the router back in and wait for its indicator lights to stabilize. Test the website again.

Fix 2: Fix 2: Disable Firewall/Antivirus Temporarily

Locate your operating system's firewall settings. For Windows, search for 'Windows Defender Firewall' in the Start menu. For macOS, go to System Settings > Network > Firewall.,Temporarily disable the firewall. Note: This should only be done for a brief test and re-enabled immediately after.,If you have third-party antivirus software, open its interface and look for an option to temporarily disable its web protection or firewall component.,Attempt to access the website. If it loads, re-enable your security software and investigate its settings for exceptions or rules that might be blocking the site.

Fix 3: Fix 3: Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

Open Chrome.,Press `Ctrl+Shift+Delete` (Windows/Linux) or `Cmd+Shift+Delete` (macOS) to open the 'Clear browsing data' dialog.,Set the 'Time range' to 'All time'.,Ensure 'Cached images and files' and 'Cookies and other site data' are checked.,Click 'Clear data'.,Restart Chrome and try accessing the website.

Fix 4: Fix 4: Check Proxy Settings

Open Chrome.,Go to Chrome Settings (three vertical dots in the top right > Settings).,In the search bar, type 'proxy' and select 'Open your computer's proxy settings'. This will open your operating system's network settings.,For Windows: Go to 'Proxy' tab. Ensure 'Automatically detect settings' is enabled and 'Use a proxy server' is disabled, unless you specifically use a proxy.,For macOS: Go to System Settings > Network > select your active connection (e.g., Wi-Fi) > Details > Proxies. Ensure 'Auto Proxy Discovery' is checked and 'Web Proxy (HTTP)' and 'Secure Web Proxy (HTTPS)' are unchecked unless you use a proxy.,Apply changes and restart Chrome. Test the website.

Fix 5: Fix 5: Flush DNS Cache and Renew IP

Open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux) as an administrator.,For Windows: Type `ipconfig /flushdns` and press Enter. Then type `ipconfig /release` and press Enter. Finally, type `ipconfig /renew` and press Enter.,For macOS/Linux: Type `sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder` and press Enter (for macOS). For Linux, the command might vary, often `sudo systemctl restart NetworkManager` or `sudo /etc/init.d/networking restart`.,Close the Command Prompt/Terminal.,Restart your browser and try accessing the website.

Fix 6: Fix 6: Change DNS Server

Open your network adapter settings. For Windows: Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings. Right-click your active connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and select 'Properties'.,For macOS: Go to System Settings > Network > select your active connection > Details > DNS.,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 DNS). Alternatively, use Cloudflare DNS: `1.1.1.1` and `1.0.0.1`.,Click 'OK' to save changes.,Flush your DNS cache (refer to Fix 5) and test the website.

FAQs

Q: What does 'ERR_CONNECTION_TIMED_OUT' mean?

A: This error means your browser tried to establish a connection with a web server but the server did not respond within the expected time frame. The connection attempt 'timed out'.

Q: Is this error always due to my internet connection?

A: No. While a poor internet connection is a common cause, the error can also stem from the target web server being down, firewall/antivirus interference, incorrect proxy settings, or DNS issues.

Q: How can I tell if the website itself is down?

A: You can use online tools like 'Down For Everyone Or Just Me' (e.g., downforeveryoneorjustme.com) to check if the website is accessible to others. If it is, the issue is likely on your end.

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