How to Solve the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED Error in Chrome? (Simple Steps for a Smooth Experience)

Why Does Chrome Show the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED Error? Essential Fixes Inside

Chrome sometimes stops loading pages and shows a message: “Your connection was interrupted. A network change was detected.” This happens when your computer’s network changes while Chrome tries to connect. The error blocks websites until the problem is fixed.

What Causes the Error?

IP Address Change or Conflict

Your device’s IP address can change if you reconnect to Wi-Fi, switch networks, or your internet provider assigns a new one. If two devices get the same IP, Chrome gets confused and shows the error.

DNS Server Problems

DNS servers help Chrome find websites. If DNS settings are wrong, outdated, or don’t match your network, Chrome can’t find sites and shows the error.

VPN or Proxy Issues

VPNs and proxies reroute your internet traffic. If they disconnect or reconnect while Chrome is loading a page, Chrome sees a network change and stops.

Router or Modem Glitches

Routers can overheat, run out of memory, or need updates. These glitches can break your connection and trigger the error.

Browser Cache or Network Stack Problems

Old website data or broken network files on your computer can confuse Chrome, especially if your security software makes quick changes.

How to Fix the ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED Error

Solution 1: Restart Router and Computer

1. Unplug your router and modem for 30 seconds.
2. Plug them back in.
3. Restart your computer.

Solution 2: Reset Network Settings

On Windows:

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
2. Type these commands one by one:

   ipconfig /release
   ipconfig /flushdns
   ipconfig /renew
   netsh winsock reset

3. Restart your computer.

On Mac:

1. Open Terminal.
2. Type:

   sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder or sudo dscacheutil -flushcache

Solution 3: Change DNS Servers

Use public DNS servers:

• Google: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
• Cloudflare: 1.1.1.1

Change DNS in your network adapter settings or router settings.

Solution 4: Turn Off VPNs and Proxies

1. Go to Chrome settings: chrome://settings/system
2. Turn off VPN/proxy switches.
3. Exit any VPN or proxy apps.

Solution 5: Clear Chrome Cache

1. Go to: chrome://settings/clearBrowserData
2. Select all time ranges.
3. Clear cached files, images, cookies, and site data.

Solution 6: Reinstall or Reset Network Adapter (Windows)

1. Open Device Manager.
2. Expand Network adapters.
3. Right-click your main adapter and select Uninstall device.
4. Reboot. Windows will reinstall the driver.

You can also disable and enable the adapter in Network Connections (ncpa.cpl).

Solution 7: Use Windows Network Reset

Windows 11: Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset.

Solution 8: Adjust Security Software

1. Temporarily turn off firewalls or antivirus.
2. Add Chrome as an exception.
3. Make sure security software isn’t blocking Chrome’s traffic.

Real-Life Examples

• Busy Internet Hours: ISPs sometimes change your IP to manage traffic. If this happens while you browse, Chrome shows the error. Setting a static IP can help.
• Shared Wi-Fi: Two devices with the same IP cause conflicts. Restarting the router or changing DHCP settings fixes it.
• Corporate VPNs: VPN refreshes can drop sessions. Disabling the VPN for a test can restore access.

Technical Details

• Chrome tracks network changes and stops loading if it detects a new IP or DNS problem.
• Developers see this as error code -21 in Chrome’s code.
• Newer Chrome versions with HTTP/3 and QUIC handle network changes better, so updating Chrome can reduce errors.

Key Concepts

• TCP/IP Stack: The set of rules Chrome uses to connect. Problems here cause errors.
• DHCP: Assigns IP addresses. If it fails, you get conflicts or frequent changes.
• HTTP/3 and QUIC: New protocols in Chrome that help keep connections stable.

The ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED error means Chrome lost its connection because your network changed. Fixes include restarting devices, resetting network settings, changing DNS, turning off VPNs, clearing cache, and checking security software. These steps help you get back online quickly and keep browsing without trouble.