How to fix
ERR_NETWORK_ACCESS_DENIED error in Chrome
on Windows

Hello. When I try to open any website in Chrome I receive a ERR_NETWORK_ACCESS_DENIED error. How can I fix this?

Chrome is a go-to browser for many people. It is a cross-platform web browser developed by Google with a 68% worldwide browser market share. It provides bookmarks and settings synchronization, security, password management, malware and ad blocking, privacy with the Incognito[ref en-1] mode, and many other useful functions. People love it for its stability and user interface.

However, as with any other application, errors are inevitable. Some users have run into an ERR_NETWORK_ACCESS_DENIED error in Chrome. This message prevents people from accessing any website. The error seems to be caused by network and internet connection problems, rather than by Chrome itself. There are many other errors that users can come across on Chrome that we wrote about previously:

• ERR_BAD_SSL_CLIENT_AUTH_CERT
• RESULT_CODE_HUNG
• ERR_SOCKET_NOT_CONNECTED
• STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION

In this guide, you will find 4 methods that could help you fix the ERR_NETWORK_ACCESS_DENIED error in Chrome. For most people, the issue was caused by a third-party security program or VPN[ref en-2] but it could also be a result of corrupted network drivers. If you want to avoid a lengthy troubleshooting process you can try using a repair tool like [d1] that can fix most system errors, BSODs,[ref en-3] corrupted files, and registry issues. Otherwise, follow the steps below carefully.

Method 1. Run the Network Adapter Troubleshooter

• Go to Settings and click on Update & security
• Choose Troubleshoot, and then Additional troubleshooters
• Scroll down and click on Network Adapter
• Press Run the Troubleshooter

• Restart your PC, and check if the issue persists

Method 2. Reinstall the Network Adapter

• Press Windows key + X to open the menu
• Choose Device Manager
• Expand Network adapters
• Right-click on adapters and click Uninstall device

• Exit Device Manager, and restart your computer
• Windows should install new drivers automatically

Method 3. Reset Network

• Open the Settings and click on Network & Internet 
• Choose Status from the list
• Scroll to the bottom then click Network reset

Method 4. Disable Third-Party Antivirus Software and VPN

Third-party antivirus software or a VPN could be blocking your access to the Internet, so try disabling or uninstalling them.

• Right-click the antivirus icon and select Disable
• You can also launch the antivirus program and look for a Disable option there
• You can uninstall programs by going to Apps and features