How to Fix ‘err_connection_reset’ Issues in WordPress: Quick and Easy Solutions

Key highlights 

Introduction  

Every WordPress site owner dreads encountering unexpected errors. The ‘err_connection_reset’ error stands out as particularly frustrating – it strikes without warning and can bring your site access to a complete halt. For business owners, content creators and website administrators, this interruption means lost productivity and potential revenue.  

When your browser fails to establish a secure connection with the web server, this error appears. It’s similar to a phone call dropping mid-conversation – the communication link breaks unexpectedly. While this error affects all types of websites, WordPress users face unique challenges due to the platform’s complex architecture and various integrated components.  

This guide breaks down the ‘err_connection_reset’ error into manageable parts. You’ll learn what triggers this error specifically in WordPress environments, how to implement proven solutions and ways to prevent future occurrences.  

What is the ‘err_connection_reset’ error? 

The ‘err_connection_reset’ error indicates a failed attempt to establish or maintain a connection between your device and a web server. Think of it as a circuit breaker that trips when something interferes with the normal flow of data. This interruption can stem from your local network setup, browser configuration or server-side issues.  

This error appears across all major browsers but impacts WordPress sites differently due to their dynamic content loading requirements.  

What causes the ‘err_connection_reset’ error in WordPress sites? 

“err_connection_reset” can occur due to various reasons, and identifying the root cause is crucial in resolving the error. Here are some of the main causes of “err_connection_reset”:  

1. Network issues – If there are issues with your internet connection or your network device, such as your router, you may encounter this error. Poor signal strength or interference can cause the connection to reset, leading to this error message.  

2. Firewall and antivirus settings – Sometimes, Windows firewalls and antivirus software can be too strict and prevent your device from establishing a stable connection to a website. In such cases, you may need to adjust your settings to allow the connection.  

3. Browser settings and extensions – Certain browser settings and extensions can also cause “err_connection_reset” errors. For example, an improperly configured proxy server or outdated SSL settings can lead to this error.  

4. Third-party software and services – Third-party software and services that interact with your network or browser can also cause this error. For instance, ad-blockers and VPNs can interfere with your internet connection and cause errors. 

5. Website/server issues – Sometimes, the issue may be on the website or server’s end. Overloaded servers or issues with the website’s code can cause the connection to reset, leading to errors.  

Other unique and rare cases of “err_connection_reset” on Windows can include issues with your network drivers, malware infections or hardware failures.  

Identifying the exact cause of ‘err_connection_reset’ on your WordPress site can feel overwhelming. Each potential trigger requires different troubleshooting approaches, which costs you valuable time and effort.  

Bluehost WonderHelp serves as your built-in WordPress guide during such technical challenges. This AI-powered assistant provides relevant, step-by-step troubleshooting instructions directly within your WordPress dashboard. Instead of searching external sites for solutions, you get actionable guidance to resolve connection issues right where you need it.  

Step-by-step solutions to resolve err_connection_reset issues 

You need a systematic err_connection_reset fix approach for your WordPress site. These solutions start with the simplest fixes and progress to more technical steps.  

1. Clear browser cache and reset settings  

Your web browser like Chrome or Safari stores website data to load pages faster. But sometimes this cached data conflicts with your WordPress site’s current version. This can lead to err_connection_reset on Chrome. 

Open your browser settings and navigate to the privacy section. Select “Clear browsing data” and choose “All time” as your time range. Your stored cache might contain outdated WordPress login credentials or corrupted session data.  

Read more: How To Clear Your WordPress Cache and Why You Should 

Clear these specific items for the best results:  

• Cached images and files  

• Cookies and site data  

• Browsing history  

2. Restart your Internet connection  

Network connectivity issues often trigger err_connection_reset on Windows and WordPress sites. A simple network reset can restore your connection and solve temporary routing problems.  

First, turn off your router and wait for 30 seconds. This pause clears the network cache and temporary data. Next, turn the router back on and let it fully initialize.  

Test your WordPress site access after the network restarts. Many connection issues resolve at this stage because the reset:  

• Clears corrupted network sessions  

• Establishes fresh DNS configurations  

• Resets your IP assignment 

3. Disable firewall and antivirus temporarily  

Windows security software sometimes blocks WordPress connections incorrectly. You should test if your antivirus or firewall software causes the error by temporarily disabling them.  

Navigate to your security software’s settings panel. Look for an option to pause protection temporarily. Choose a short duration – 5 minutes is enough for testing. Remember to re-enable your security software after testing.  

Make a note of these important safety steps:  

• Only disable security tools briefly  

• Test your WordPress connection immediately  

• Re-enable protection regardless of results  

If your site works with security software disabled, you need to add your WordPress domain to the whitelist. Check your security software’s documentation for whitelisting instructions.  

4. Check your proxy and VPN settings  

A misconfigured proxy or VPN often causes connection issues with WordPress sites. You need to verify these settings, especially if you use multiple networks.  

Open Google Chrome’s settings and navigate to System > Proxy settings. Look for any incorrect proxy configurations that might block your WordPress connection. If you find unwanted proxy settings, disable them and test your site again.  

For VPN users:  

• Disconnect from your VPN completely  

• Test your WordPress site access  

• Try a different VPN server location  

• Check if your VPN’s kill switch is active  

5. Reset TCP/IP and flush DNS  

Sometimes your Windows network settings need a complete refresh to fix err_connection_reset on Windows. You can fix persistent connection errors by resetting your TCP/IP configuration and clearing your DNS cache.  

Read more: How to Flush Your DNS Cache 

Open Command Prompt as administrator and run these commands:  

ipconfig /release  

ipconfig /renew  

ipconfig /flushdns  

netsh winsock reset

Wait for each command to complete before testing your site. This process:  

• Renews your IP address  

• Clears old DNS records  

• Resets Internet protocols  

7. Check for malware  

Malware can silently disrupt your connection to WordPress sites. You need a thorough security scan to ensure your site is clean and secure.  

Bluehost partners with SiteLock to provide comprehensive malware protection. SiteLock offers:  

• Daily security scans  

• Automatic malware removal  

• Real-time threat detection  

• Website backup protection  

Even if you don’t use SiteLock, run a complete system scan using reliable antivirus software like Malwarebytes. A full system scan helps:  

• Identify malicious programs  

• Remove connection-blocking malware  

• Restore normal browser behavior  

If malware is detected, let SiteLock or your security tool complete the removal process before testing your site connection again.  

How to prevent ‘err_connection_reset’ in the future  

While “err_connection_reset” fix can be frustrating to deal with, there are steps you can take to prevent it from occurring in the first place. Here are some best practices and tips for preventing this error:  

• Use a high-speed internet connection: A faster internet connection can help prevent connection timeouts and errors.  

• Keep your router and modem up to date: Ensure that your router and modem are running the latest firmware and software updates.  

• Position your router correctly: Place your router in a central location and away from obstacles to maximize its signal strength.  

• Avoid peak internet usage times: Internet traffic can cause slowdowns and interruptions, so try to avoid using the internet during peak usage times.  

While these steps help optimize your local network setup, connection stability also depends on your WordPress hosting environment. A reliable hosting provider maintains robust server configurations and network infrastructure to prevent connection resets.   

This is why Bluehost WordPress hosting includes built-in safeguards that monitor, maintain and optimize your site’s connection stability – giving you one less thing to worry about.  

Final thoughts  

The ‘err_connection_reset’ error requires systematic troubleshooting. Start with basic err_connection_reset fix solutions like checking your Internet settings and clearing outdated cache. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, proceed to more advanced solutions like TCP/IP resets or security scans.  

Bluehost’s WordPress hosting platform provides the technical foundation you need for stable site performance. With specialized infrastructure and integrated tools like WonderHelp, you can quickly resolve connection issues and maintain consistent site availability for your visitors.  

Get started with Bluehost WordPress hosting today to ensure reliable, error-free website performance.  

FAQs