How to fix ERR_SOCKET_NOT_CONNECTED error in Google Chrome

What is ERR_SOCKET_NOT_CONNECTED Error?

Encountering the ERR_SOCKET_NOT_CONNECTED error in Google Chrome can be a frustrating experience, especially when you’re trying to access important websites. This error usually indicates a problem with the browser’s ability to establish a network connection. In this expert guide, we’ll delve into the causes of this error and provide a comprehensive set of solutions to help you resolve it. The ERR_SOCKET_NOT_CONNECTED error in Google Chrome is a network-related error that occurs when the browser is unable to establish a connection to the server of the website you’re trying to access. This error can be caused by several factors, ranging from problems with your internet connection to settings within Chrome itself.

ERR_SOCKET_NOT_CONNECTED error in Google Chrome

ERR_SOCKET_NOT_CONNECTED error in Google Chrome (Swedish)

Why Does ERR_SOCKET_NOT_CONNECTED Error Appear?

Several factors can contribute to the appearance of this error, including:

1. Network Connection Issues: Problems with your internet connection can prevent Chrome from accessing the necessary servers.
2. Proxy Settings: Incorrect proxy settings in Chrome or your system can lead to connection problems.
3. Firewall/Antivirus Software: Sometimes, firewall or antivirus settings may block Chrome’s access to the network.
4. Browser Extensions: Certain extensions can interfere with Chrome’s operation and cause various errors.
5. Chrome Settings or Data: Corrupted cookies, cache, or settings in Chrome can also be the culprits.

How to fix ERR_SOCKET_NOT_CONNECTED Error

Below are detailed step-by-step instructions to resolve this error, covering all known solutions:

1. Check Your Internet Connection

First, ensure that your internet connection is stable and working. Try accessing other websites or use a different device to verify your internet connectivity.

2. Restart Google Chrome

Sometimes, a simple restart of the browser can fix the issue. Close Chrome, wait a few seconds, and then reopen it.

3. Clear Browsing Data

Corrupted cache or cookies can lead to various errors, including ERR_SOCKET_NOT_CONNECTED.

1. Open Chrome and click on the three dots in the upper right corner.
2. Go to More tools > Clear browsing data.
3. Choose the time range to All time and check the boxes for Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files.
4. Click Clear data.

4. Disable Proxy Settings

Incorrect proxy settings can cause connection issues.

On Windows:

1. Press Windows Key + R, type inetcpl.cpl, and press Enter.
2. Go to the Connections tab and select LAN settings.
3. Uncheck the option Use a proxy server for your LAN and click OK.

On Mac:

1. Go to System Preferences > Network.
2. Select your network service (e.g., Wi-Fi) and click Advanced.
3. Go to the Proxies tab and ensure no proxies are enabled.

5. Reset Chrome Settings

Resetting Chrome can resolve issues caused by altered settings or extensions.

1. Open Chrome and go to Settings.
2. Scroll down and click on Advanced.
3. Under Reset and clean up, click Restore settings to their original defaults.
4. Click Reset settings.

6. Disable Extensions

Some extensions can interfere with Chrome’s normal operations.

1. Open Chrome and go to chrome://extensions/.
2. Disable all extensions by toggling them off.
3. Restart Chrome and check if the error persists. If it’s resolved, enable extensions one by one to identify the problematic one.

7. Update Google Chrome

Ensure you’re using the latest version of Chrome, as updates often include fixes for common issues.

1. Open Chrome and click on the three dots in the upper right corner.
2. Go to Help > About Google Chrome.
3. Chrome will check for updates and install any available ones.

8. Disable Firewall/Antivirus/VPN Temporarily

Sometimes, firewall or antivirus settings may prevent Chrome from accessing the internet. Or you can use VPN browser extension or Windows/Mac VPN application. Temporarily disable these programs or add-ons to see if they are the cause. Remember to re-enable them afterward.

9. Flush DNS Cache

A corrupted DNS cache can lead to connection issues.

On Windows:

1. Press Windows Key + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
2. Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.

On Mac:

1. Open Terminal.
2. Type sudo dscacheutil -flushcache;sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder and press Enter.

10. Check for System Updates

Ensure your operating system is up to date, as compatibility issues can sometimes cause problems with Chrome.

Following these steps should help you resolve the ERR_SOCKET_NOT_CONNECTED error in Google Chrome. If the problem persists, consider reinstalling Chrome or consulting with a professional for further assistance.