Alex Ruben
How to Fix the ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE Error in Google Chrome
If you’ve encountered the “ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE” error while using Google Chrome, you’re not alone. This frustrating issue can prevent you from accessing websites, disrupting your online experience. Fortunately, there are several straightforward solutions to resolve this problem. In this guide, you will learn how to disable VPN settings, flush your DNS cache, reset Winsock, clear your browser cache, and navigate Chrome settings effectively. By following these steps, you’ll restore your browsing experience smoothly and efficiently.
Before you start, ensure that you’re using an updated version of Google Chrome and have administrative access to your computer. This guide is compatible with Windows operating systems, primarily Windows 10 and 11.
Step 1: Disable VPN Settings
Sometimes, your VPN can interfere with your internet connection, leading to the ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE error. To disable your VPN:
- Open the Start menu by clicking the Windows icon.
- Type VPN and select VPN settings from the search results.
- In the VPN settings window, check if your VPN is turned on. If it is, toggle the switch to turn it off.
After turning off your VPN, attempt to access the website again to see if the issue persists.
Step 2: Flush DNS Cache
Flushing your DNS cache can resolve various connectivity issues. Here’s how to do it:
- Open the Start menu again and type
CMDto find the Command Prompt. - Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
- In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
ipconfig /flushdns
This command will clear your DNS cache. Once completed, check if you can access the site without errors.
Step 3: Reset Winsock
If flushing the DNS cache did not resolve the issue, resetting Winsock could help:
- In the same Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
netsh winsock reset
After executing this command, close the Command Prompt and try browsing the internet again.
Step 4: Clear Chrome’s Browser Cache
Clearing your browser’s cache can eliminate outdated or corrupted files that may be causing the error. To do this:
- Open Google Chrome and click on the three dots in the upper right corner to access the menu.
- Select Settings.
- In the left sidebar, click on Privacy and security, then choose Clear browsing data.
- Set the time range to All time and ensure that Cached images and files is checked. You can also select Cookies and other site data if you want to remove those as well.
- Click on Clear data to complete the process.
After clearing the cache, restart Chrome and attempt to access the desired site.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Here are some additional recommendations and common troubleshooting tips:
- If the issue persists after following these steps, consider checking your internet connection or router settings.
- Make sure your antivirus or firewall is not blocking Chrome or the website you are trying to access.
- Try accessing the site using another browser to determine if the issue is specific to Chrome.
Conclusion
By following the steps outlined above, you should be able to resolve the ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE error in Google Chrome successfully. Each solution targets common causes of the issue, allowing for a systematic approach to fixing it. If you continue to experience problems, you may want to consult your internet service provider for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE error mean?
This error indicates that Chrome is unable to reach the specified address, often due to network connectivity issues, DNS problems, or VPN interference.
How can I prevent this error from happening again?
Regularly clearing your browser cache, disabling VPNs when not necessary, and keeping your browser updated can help prevent this error.
Is it safe to reset Winsock?
Yes, resetting Winsock is a common fix for network-related issues and will not harm your system. It simply resets network configurations to default settings.