For instance, your local network connection has gone awry. Or, there is a temporary server glitch. These causes are just the tip of the iceberg because there are many reasons why this error comes up. You can, nevertheless, fix this issue. But, keep in mind that fixes can differ depending on the problem’s complexity. For instance, sometimes, your browser’s cache files give rise to err_connection_timed_out. That time the only way to fix it is by clearing them. However, the problems aren’t always going to be easy nor are their solutions. That’s why we have listed fixes that address most of the causes behind the error.
What Does Err_connection_timed_out Mean?
Simply put, this error means that the website you are trying to access is taking longer than usual to respond to. As a result, you cannot connect to the website. There are many reasons why this happens. It could be due to your poor internet connectivity. Moreover, an excessive amount of browser and DNS cache are other culprits behind err_connection_timed_out. Some of the other causes are as follows:
How to Fix err_connection_timed_out
For starters, make sure you have turned on your Wi-Fi. Then, check how stable your internet connection is. As there isn’t one sure-shot way to fix this, here are some more solutions.
Checking the Stability of Your Internet Connection
If your internet is fluctuating, then that might be causing err_connection_timed_out. Sometimes, restarting your router and modem helps to fix unidentified issues. Here’s how you can restart your router and modem: Now, you can start your computer and log in to any site to see if the err_connection_timed_out is fixed. Also, make sure your device is not in Airplane mode.
Clearing the Browsing Data
Another straightforward solution is to clear the browsing data from your browser. The more cookies and cache, the slower your internet connection is going to be. Your browser piles up browsing data as you visit different sites. This data can act as a hindrance to your smooth internet connection. To clear the browsing data on Google Chrome, follow the steps below:
Running Browser in Compatibility Mode
If you’re looking for an easy fix, running your browser in compatibility mode can also resolve the error. You can enable the compatibility mode with these steps.
Changing Proxy Settings
Proxies act in your best interest by securing your device and enabling privacy. They do so by hiding your IP address. But, this protection also gives rise to errors like err_connection_timed_out. To fix this, you can change the proxy settings on your device. On Mac
Disabling Firewall
Firewalls govern the network traffic to secure your system. This can lag your internet connection thus, leading to error. The disposal of firewalls and similar apps can help fix this error. You can also disable the Firewall briefly if you don’t want to give up the safety that firewalls provide.
Flush Your DNS Cache
The DNS cache builds up with internet browsing. The DNS cache includes IP addresses and records of sites which makes it easy to load those sites in the future. But, over time it gets piled up and gets outdated. Flushing the DNS cache and resetting DNS can help you unload this data. This fixes connection problems and reduces the chances of running into the err_connection_timed_out substantially. On Windows To flush the DNS cache in Windows, you have to use the Command Prompt. On Mac To flush the DNS cache in Mac, you should:
Updating Network Adapter Driver
Outdated network adapter drivers can also affect the internet connection. As a result, you find yourself stuck with connection errors. Here are the steps to update your network driver: After the network adapter driver installs, restart your device. You can then assess if that fixed err_connection_timed_out.
Removing Extensions
Extensions come in handy, sure, but it’s not always safe. Such extensions not only risk privacy but also cause connection errors. If you have any extension from an unreliable source, you should let it go. You can, then, restart your browser and visit the website you were previously denied access.
Switching to Another DNS Server
You can change your DNS Server for better speed and security. If you struggle with a bad internet connection, which leads to errors like err_connection_timed_out then, switching to another DNS server might be one solution. Among public DNS server options, Google and Cloudflare are the top contenders. So, you might want to choose these servers over others for safety and privacy concerns. If you are looking to switch to Google’s public DNS server, here’s how.
Editing the Hosts File
Another additional fix for the err_connection_timed_out is editing the hosts’ file. The hosts’ file tends to block certain websites thereby, causing the connection error. You can make necessary changes to the hosts’ files to stop this. The simplest approach to attain this would be following these steps.
Network Troubleshooting
You can also tap into the network troubleshooting feature. This helps to detect and fix minor connection errors. Here are the steps you will need to run the network troubleshooting in Windows.
Using Network Reset
If none of the above fixes work, you can use network reset as your final fix. Using network reset removes the installed network adapters and their settings. Then, the network adapters will be reinstalled while their settings will be set to default after your device restarts. You can do this with these steps.
