ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED means your browser made a connection attempt to the server, and the server actively rejected it. Unlike a timeout (where no one answers), this is a door slammed in your face. The server is reachable, but it’s refusing your connection.
What Causes ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED
- The website’s server is down or overloaded
- The server is running but the service (web server software) has crashed
- Your firewall is blocking the connection
- Your IP has been blocked by the website
- You’re using the wrong port in the URL
- A local proxy is configured incorrectly
- Antivirus software is intercepting the connection
Fix 1: Check If the Site Is Down for Everyone
Visit downforeveryoneorjustme.com and enter the URL. If the site is down globally, it’s the server’s problem and there’s nothing you can do but wait.
Fix 2: Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
In Chrome: Settings → Privacy and Security → Clear browsing data → check Cached images and files + Cookies → Clear data. Then try again.
Fix 3: Disable Your Proxy Settings
In Chrome: Settings → System → Open your computer’s proxy settings → Make sure “Use a proxy server” is off. A misconfigured proxy commonly causes this error.
Fix 4: Temporarily Disable Your Firewall
Windows Defender Firewall can sometimes block connections. Temporarily disable it and test. If that fixes it, create an exception for your browser in the firewall settings rather than leaving it disabled.
Fix 5: Flush DNS and Reset TCP/IP
Open Command Prompt as administrator:
ipconfig /flushdnsnetsh int ip resetnetsh winsock reset
Restart your computer after.
Fix 6: Try a VPN
If your IP has been blocked by the website, connecting through a VPN gives you a different IP address, which may bypass the block. This is particularly useful if the site is geo-restricted in your country.