Before you start
- A Windows PC with Chrome or Edge
Method 1 Narrow it down
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Step 1: Other sites and devices
If only one site fails everywhere, the site has a problem. If all sites fail on your PC only, focus on the PC.
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Step 2: Other networks
Try mobile data via your phone hotspot. If it works, your home network or provider is involved.
Method 2 Reset your network
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Step 1: Restart the router
Unplug it for 30 seconds.
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Step 2: Reset Winsock and TCP/IP
In Terminal (Admin), run the commands below and restart.
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdnsMethod 3 Fix Chrome and security software
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Step 1: Clear cache and extensions
Clear cached files (Ctrl + Shift + Delete) and test in incognito. Disable extensions that filter traffic.
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Step 2: Proxy
Turn off Use a proxy server in Settings > Network & internet > Proxy.
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Step 3: VPN
Disconnect any VPN.
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Step 4: Antivirus/firewall
Temporarily disable web/HTTPS scanning in third-party antivirus to test; add an exception if it’s the cause.
Method 4 Advanced: lower the MTU
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Step 1: Check the interface name
Run netsh interface ipv4 show subinterfaces to see names (e.g. “Wi-Fi”) and MTU values.
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Step 2: Set MTU to 1472
Run netsh interface ipv4 set subinterface "Wi-Fi" mtu=1472 store=persistent. Some PPPoE or VPN connections need a lower MTU. Set it back to 1500 if it doesn’t help.
Troubleshooting
Only HTTPS sites fail
Check the PC’s date and time, and antivirus HTTPS scanning.
Happens on work network only
A corporate firewall may reset connections to blocked sites. Ask IT.
Frequently asked questions
Is ERR_CONNECTION_RESET caused by the website?
Sometimes. If it happens everywhere for one site, the site or its CDN is at fault.
Can my provider cause it?
Yes, some network filters reset connections to blocked sites.
Summary
Restart the router, run netsh winsock reset and netsh int ip reset, clear Chrome’s cache, and test without VPN, proxy and antivirus web scanning. Lower the MTU as a last resort.
