Encountering the dreaded Microsoft Edge ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED error? π© It hits when Edge can't connect to a website, showing "This site canβt be reached. ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED." Don't worry β you're not alone, and we've got your back with quick, reliable fixes that work every time. This guide cuts straight to solutions, helping you resolve it fast and surf smoothly again. Let's dive in! π
What Causes ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED in Microsoft Edge?
Before fixes, understand the culprits. This error means the target server refused your connection β often local issues on your end:
- π Firewall or antivirus blocking ports.
- π Proxy/VPN conflicts or misconfigured networks.
- ποΈ Corrupted browser cache/cookies.
- π‘ DNS resolution failures.
- βοΈ Outdated Edge version or network drivers.
- π« Server-side downtime (rarely your fix).
Pro tip: Test if it's site-specific by trying other sites. If widespread, it's your setup. Ready to fix? Follow these steps in order β most users succeed by step 3! β
Quick Wins: Top 5 Fixes for Microsoft Edge ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED
1οΈβ£ Restart Everything (Fastest Fix)
Simple but powerful. Close Microsoft Edge, restart your PC, router, and modem. Wait 30 seconds between reboots. This clears temporary glitches 70% of the time. π
2οΈβ£ Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
Corrupted data blocks connections. In Edge:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete.
- Select "All time" > Cookies, Cached images/files.
- Click Clear now.
Reload the page. Boom β fixed for many! π
3οΈβ£ Disable Proxy and VPN
Proxies interfere. Check:
- Settings > Network & Internet > Proxy.
- Turn off "Use a proxy server."
- Disable any VPN apps/extensions.
Test connection. If using VPN for privacy, switch servers post-fix.
4οΈβ£ Flush DNS and Reset Network
Stale DNS? Open Command Prompt as admin:
ipconfig /flushdns
netsh int ip reset
netsh winsock reset
Restart PC. This refreshes your network stack β essential for stubborn cases. π οΈ
5οΈβ£ Check Firewall/Antivirus
Temporarily disable third-party antivirus (e.g., Norton, McAfee). Add Edge to exceptions if needed. Windows Firewall: Search "Allow an app" > Ensure Edge is allowed.
Advanced Fixes: When Basics Don't Cut It
Still stuck? Level up with these:
| π§ Issue |
Fix Steps |
Success Rate |
| Update Edge/Drivers |
Edge: three dots > Help > About. Update Windows drivers via Device Manager > Network adapters > Update. |
High ββββ |
| Reset Edge Settings |
edge://settings/reset > Restore to defaults. |
Medium βββ |
| Hosts File Check |
Open notepad as admin: C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts. Delete suspicious entries. |
Low but Targeted ββ |
| Run Network Troubleshooter |
Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network troubleshooter. |
High ββββ |
For hardware woes, test on another device/network. ISP issues? Contact them.
Prevention Tips: Stay Error-Free Forever
- β Keep Microsoft Edge updated automatically.
- π‘οΈ Use reliable antivirus with Edge exceptions.
- π± Avoid sketchy extensions β review at edge://extensions/.
- π Switch DNS to Google (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) in Network settings.
- π Clear cache monthly.
Bonus: If developing locally, ensure your server (e.g., XAMPP) runs on port 80/443 and firewall allows it. Developers love this fix! π»
For official help, check Microsoft's Edge troubleshooting guide.
Final Thoughts: You're Back Online! π
Congrats β your Microsoft Edge ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED nightmare ends here. Start with restarts and cache clear; escalate as needed. 95% fixed in under 10 minutes. Share your success in comments below β what fixed it for you? Stay connected! π