Before you start
- A computer with Chrome, Edge or another browser
Method 1 Rule out the website
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Step 1: Try another device or network
Open the site on your phone using mobile data. If it fails there too, the site is down; wait and try later.
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Step 2: Try other sites
If no sites load, it’s your connection (see our limited access guide).
Method 2 Fix your connection
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Step 1: Restart the router
Unplug for 30 seconds and plug back in.
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Step 2: Flush DNS and change DNS
Run ipconfig /flushdns, then set DNS to 1.1.1.1 or 8.8.8.8.
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Step 3: Reset network
In Terminal (Admin): netsh winsock reset and netsh int ip reset, then restart.
Method 3 Fix the browser
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Step 1: Clear cache
Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete, clear Cached images and files.
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Step 2: Try incognito
If it works in incognito, disable extensions one by one.
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Step 3: Check proxy settings
In Windows Settings > Network & internet > Proxy, turn off Use a proxy server unless you need it.
Method 4 Check security software
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Step 1: VPN
Disconnect any VPN and try again.
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Step 2: Firewall/antivirus
Temporarily disable web protection in third-party antivirus to test. Check the Windows hosts file (C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts) for entries blocking the site.
Troubleshooting
Only one site times out on my network
Your network or provider may block it, or the site blocks your IP range. Test with mobile data or a VPN.
Times out only on work/school Wi-Fi
The network filters that site. Ask the network administrator.
Frequently asked questions
Is ERR_CONNECTION_TIMED_OUT my fault?
Not always. If the site is down or slow, only waiting helps.
Can a VPN cause it?
Yes, if the VPN server is slow or blocked by the site.
Summary
Check if the site is down, then restart your router, flush and change DNS, clear the browser cache, and turn off VPN/proxy or security software that might block the connection.
