The “ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED” error is a common issue that Google Chrome users encounter when browsing the internet.
This error indicates that Chrome is unable to establish a stable internet connection due to network changes or interruptions.
It can be frustrating, especially when it disrupts your browsing experience.
In this article, we’ll explain what the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED error means, why it occurs, and provide step-by-step solutions to fix it.
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What Does the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED Error Mean?
The “ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED” error message appears when Google Chrome detects a change in your network connection, making it impossible to access websites.
It usually indicates that the browser is unable to maintain a consistent connection to the internet.
When this error occurs, you’ll see a message that reads: “Your connection was interrupted. A network change was detected.”
Common Symptoms of the Error:
- Websites fail to load, and you see the error message “ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED” on your screen.
- Chrome displays the “No internet” or “This site can’t be reached” page.
- The error occurs intermittently or frequently when trying to access websites.
Why Does the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED Error Occur?
Several factors can trigger the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED error, including:
- Network Configuration Changes: Changes in your network settings, such as switching from Wi-Fi to Ethernet or connecting to a different network, can cause the error.
- Internet Connection Issues: An unstable or weak internet connection can interrupt your browsing session, leading to the error.
- DNS Configuration Problems: Incorrect or outdated DNS settings can prevent Chrome from connecting to the internet.
- Router or Modem Issues: Problems with your router or modem can disrupt your internet connection, resulting in the error.
- VPN or Proxy Settings: Using a VPN or proxy can interfere with Chrome’s network connection, triggering the error.
- Conflicting Software: Antivirus or firewall software may block network access, causing the error.
Solution 1 ⇒ Restart Your Router
Step 1 ⇒ First remove the power cord from your router.
Step 2 ⇒ Then wait for 30 seconds.
Step 3 ⇒Finally reconnect the power cord to the router.
Solution 2 ⇒ Reset IP address
Step 1 ⇒ First open the Start menu.
Step 2 ⇒ Then type Run in the search box and press Enter key.
Step 3 ⇒ Then, in the Run window type cmd and press Enter key.
Step 4 ⇒ In the command prompt window, type the following commands and don’t forget to press the Enter key after each command.
ipconfig /flushdns
ipconfig /registerdns
ipconfig /renew
Step 5 ⇒ Then close the command prompt window. Once again open it, type the following commands and don’t forget to press the Enter key after each command.
ipconfig /flushdns
nbtstat –r
netsh int ip reset
netsh winsock reset
Step 6 ⇒ Finally, press the Enter key and reboot your operating system.
Solution 3 ⇒ Manually Change Your DNS Server
Step 1 ⇒ First, click the Start icon and open the Control Panel.
Step 2 ⇒ Then select Network and Internet tab from the Control Panel window.
Step 3 ⇒ Now select Change Adapter Settings present on the left pane of Network and Sharing Center window.
Step 4 ⇒ Do a right-click on the network interface connected with the internet and select the Properties option.
Step 5 ⇒ Then click on IPv4 and select Properties.
Step 6 ⇒ Type your Preferred DNS server address and Alternate DNS server.
Step 7 ⇒ Finally, click the OK icon.
Solution 4 ⇒ Change Proxy Settings
Step 1 ⇒ First open the Start menu.
Step 2 ⇒ Then type Run in the search box and press Enter key.
Step 3 ⇒ Then, in the Run window type inetcpl.cpl and press Enter key.
Step 4 ⇒ Now click on the Connections tab and select the LAN settings.
Step 5 ⇒ Afterwards uncheck the box with Proxy Server and check the box with Automatically detect settings.
Step 6 ⇒ Finally, save the changes and reboot your operating system.
Solution 5 ⇒ Clear Chrome Browser Data
Step 1 ⇒ First open your Chrome browser.
Step 2 ⇒ Then click on the menu icon and select Settings.
Step 3 ⇒ After that, click on Show Advanced Settings.
Step 4 ⇒ Then, in the Privacy section, click on Clear browsing data icon.
Step 5 ⇒ Check the boxes which contain history, cookies, passwords, and cache files to delete.
Step 6 ⇒ Finally restart your browser.
Read Also:
- TiWorker.exe
- 0x80070643
- Service Registration is Missing or Corrupt
- WLDCore.dll
- ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED
Solution 6 ⇒ Delete WLAN Profiles
Step 1 ⇒ First open the Start menu.
Step 2 ⇒ Then type Run in the search box and press Enter key.
Step 3 ⇒ Then, in the Run window type cmd and press Enter key.
Step 4 ⇒ In the command prompt window, type the following command netsh wlan show profiles and press the Enter key.
Step 5 ⇒ Finally to remove Wi-Fi profiles, type the following command netsh wlan delete profile name= [PROFILE NAME]. Do this for all Wi-Fi profiles.
That’s it, and the above solutions will solve the “ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED” error permanently. Still, any query or doubt then do post.
Preventing the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED Error in the Future
- Keep Your Browser Updated: Regularly update Chrome to the latest version to avoid compatibility issues.
- Maintain a Stable Internet Connection: Use a reliable internet connection and avoid switching networks frequently.
- Run Regular Antivirus Scans: Perform regular scans to protect your computer from malware that could interfere with your network connection.
- Monitor Network Settings: Check your network settings periodically to ensure there are no misconfigurations.
Final Thoughts
The “ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED” error can be frustrating, but it’s usually fixable with the methods outlined above.
Start with simple solutions like restarting your router or clearing your browser cache, and if necessary, proceed to more advanced troubleshooting steps like updating network drivers or changing DNS settings.
By following this guide, you should be able to resolve the error and enjoy uninterrupted browsing on Google Chrome.
FAQs About the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED Error in Chrome
1. What causes the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED error in Chrome?
The error is caused by changes in your network connection, DNS issues, unstable internet, VPN or proxy settings, or conflicting software.
2. How do I fix the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED error?
You can fix the error by restarting your router, clearing the Chrome cache, flushing the DNS, updating network drivers, or changing DNS settings.
3. Can antivirus software cause the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED error?
Yes, certain antivirus programs can interfere with network connections, leading to this error.
4. Will resetting Chrome settings fix the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED error?
Yes, resetting Chrome settings can resolve configuration issues that might be causing the error.
5. Can using a VPN trigger the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED error?
Yes, VPNs can sometimes interfere with Chrome’s network connection, resulting in the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED error.
Go to More tools > Clear browsing data, select All time, and clear Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files.
7. Why does the error occur when switching networks?
The error occurs when Chrome detects a sudden change in the network connection, which can interrupt your browsing session.
8. Is the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED error a sign of malware?
Not necessarily, but malware can interfere with your network connection. Run an antivirus scan to rule out any threats.
9. Should I contact my ISP if the error persists?
Yes, if none of the troubleshooting methods work, contact your Internet Service Provider for further assistance.
10. How do I change DNS settings to Google DNS?
Access your network properties, select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), and change the DNS server addresses to 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4.