ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED – What It Means and How to Fix It

The ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error appears when a website refuses the connection, often due to misconfigurations at either the client or server side. Unlike other connection errors, this one usually indicates that the server is rejecting your connection request outright.

This article will explain the causes behind this error and guide you on how to fix it.

What is ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED?

The ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error occurs when your browser is able to reach the server but is explicitly denied access. This can happen if there are issues with your network configuration, the server settings, or even if the website is down.

Common Causes of ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED

1. Server-Side Issues: The server you are trying to access may be down or rejecting connections due to misconfiguration.
2. Firewall or Antivirus Blocking the Connection: Your security software might be blocking the connection to the website.
3. Proxy Settings: Incorrect proxy settings on your network can cause this error.
4. DNS Problems: Incorrect DNS configuration or settings may lead to connection refusal.

How to Fix ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED

Here are the steps you can take to resolve this issue:

1. Check if the Website is Down:
   • Use online tools like “Down For Everyone or Just Me” to verify if the website is down for everyone or just you.
2. Disable Your Firewall/Antivirus Temporarily:
   • Your firewall or antivirus might be blocking the connection. Try disabling them and check if the problem is resolved.
3. Check Proxy Settings:
   • If you’re using a proxy server, ensure it’s configured correctly. If you’re not using a proxy, make sure your browser isn’t trying to connect through one.
4. Clear Your Browser Cache:
   • Corrupted browser data can sometimes cause this issue. Clear the cache and cookies and restart the browser.
5. Reset TCP/IP Settings:
   • Open Command Prompt and type netsh int ip reset to reset the IP stack.
6. Contact the Website Admin:
   • If the issue persists, it may be a server-side problem. Contact the website’s administrator for further assistance.

Conclusion

The ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error indicates that the server is rejecting the connection, usually due to network configuration or server issues. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to fix this error and resume your browsing experience.