How to Fix Google Chrome Not Loading Pages
Is Google Chrome showing a blank screen or an error like "This site can't be reached"? This guide provides simple, step-by-step solutions to fix the problem and get your browser working again.
When Chrome fails to load a webpage, it's usually a sign of a breakdown in communication between your browser and the website's server. This can be caused by local issues on your computer, network problems, or faulty browser data.
Common Causes:
- No Internet Connection: The most obvious reason—your device is offline.
- Corrupted Browser Cache/Cookies: Old, stored website data can interfere with loading new pages.
- Problematic Extensions: A faulty or malicious extension can block websites from loading.
- DNS Issues: Your computer might be failing to look up the website's address (IP).
- Firewall or Antivirus Blocking: Security software can mistakenly block Chrome's access to the internet.
1. Check Your Internet Connection
Rule out the simplest cause first.
- Try opening a different website, like google.com, in another browser (like Edge or Firefox).
- If other browsers also don't work, the problem is with your internet connection. Restart your modem and router.
2. Clear Your Browser Cache and Cookies
This is the most effective fix for many browser problems.
- In Chrome, press Ctrl + Shift + Delete (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + Delete (Mac).
- In the "Time range" dropdown, select "All time".
- Check the boxes for "Cookies and other site data" and "Cached images and files".
- Click "Clear data" and restart Chrome.
3. Disable Browser Extensions
An extension could be interfering with how pages load.
- Type chrome://extensions into your address bar and press Enter.
- Turn off the toggle for each extension one by one, trying to load the page after each deactivation.
- If the page loads after disabling a specific extension, you've found the culprit. Remove that extension.
4. Change Your DNS Settings
Switching to a public DNS provider like Google's can resolve lookup issues.
- In Chrome settings, go to "Privacy and security" > "Security".
- Scroll down to "Advanced" and find "Use secure DNS".
- Select "With" and choose "Google (Public DNS)" from the dropdown menu.
5. Check Firewall and Antivirus
Your security software might be too aggressive.
- Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall software.
- Try loading the webpage again. If it works, you need to add an exception for Google Chrome in your security software's settings.
- Important: Remember to re-enable your security software after testing.
Do not download "Chrome repair" tools or other random software claiming to fix the issue. These are often bundled with malware and can cause more harm. Stick to the official troubleshooting steps.