Key highlights
- ERR_CACHE_MISS error is a common browser issue that stems from corrupted cache or network problems.
- Quick bug fixes like refreshing the web page and clearing your cache can resolve the issue with ease.
- Your website’s hosting plays a crucial role in minimizing cache errors and improving performance.
- Regularly clearing your browser’s cache and checking for updates can help prevent the error from reoccurring.
- Reliable hosting ensures better site performance and smoother browsing, reducing ERR_CACHE_MISS errors.
Introduction
You’re browsing the web server, researching, shopping or just catching up on the latest news. Everything runs smoothly—until a blank page stops you in your tracks with the message! ERR_CACHE_MISS. Frustrating, right?
This error usually pops up when your browser struggles to retrieve cached data. It could be due to outdated cache files, misconfigured browser settings or even conflicts with extensions. Worry not! It’s not as complicated as it sounds and there are several quick fixes to resolve it.
In this blog, we’ll break down what ERR_CACHE_MISS means, why it occurs and—most importantly—how to fix it efficiently.
Understanding the ERR_CACHE_MISS error
Nothing disrupts a smooth browsing experience quite like an unexpected error message. One moment, you’re filling out a form or revisiting a page and the next—ERR_CACHE_MISS error stares back at you. It’s confusing and annoying and leaves you wondering: What went wrong?
What does ERR_CACHE_MISS mean?
ERR_CACHE_MISS error is closely tied to how your browser handles cached data. Instead of reloading everything from scratch each time you visit a website, browsers store certain files temporarily to speed things up. But when something disrupts this process, Chrome throws up the ERR_CACHE_MISS error. It could be outdated cache files or a miscommunication between the browser and server.
While it can be frustrating, the problem is usually minor and can be resolved with simple troubleshooting steps.
Common causes ERR_CACHE_MISS error
Several factors can lead to this error:
- Corrupt or outdated cache files – If stored website data is no longer valid, Chrome may struggle to reload the page properly.
- Extensions causing a conflict – If you’re using things like ad blockers or privacy tools, they could be interfering with how Chrome caches data, causing the error to appear.
- Unstable internet connection – If your internet connection is weak or unreliable, it might stop your browser from fetching all the necessary data.
- Issues with the website’s code – Some websites don’t set up their caching correctly, which could trigger an error as Chrome tries to fetch new data.
- Problems with Chrome itself – Sometimes, Chrome’s settings or even outdated versions can get in the way, preventing the Google Chrome browser from handling the browser’s cache properly.
Quick solutions to fix ERR_CACHE_MISS in Chrome
Now that we understand what causes the ERR_CACHE_MISS error, no need to panic or pull your hair out just yet. Let’s walk through some tried-and-tested solutions that will have you back to browsing in no time.
Refresh the page
Sometimes, all your browser needs is a quick nudge. If you’re on a PC, press Ctrl + R to refresh the page. On a Mac? You can also use the Terminal app to troubleshoot issues: hit Cmd + R. This can often clear up any temporary glitches and get you back on track.
Restart Google Chrome
If refreshing doesn’t do the trick, try restarting Chrome. Close the browser completely, then open it again. This simple step can clear up any minor issues causing the error.
Update Google Chrome
An outdated version of Chrome can cause problems with cached data. Make sure your browser is up to date! Click the three dots in the top-right corner, go to Help and select About Google Chrome. If there’s an update available, Chrome will handle the rest and get you updated latest version in no time.
Clear browsing history
As time goes on, your browser collects tons of data to speed up browsing—but sometimes, this data can get outdated or corrupted. To clear it out, go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Clear Browsing Data. Select everything—cached images, cookies and site data—and hit Clear Data. This will help remove any outdated files causing common issues.
Disable browser extensions
Extensions are great until they start getting in the way. Some can cause conflicts with cached data, triggering the ERR_CACHE_MISS error. Head to chrome://extensions/ and disable any you don’t need.
After disabling, try refreshing the page to see if that clears up the problem.
Reset network settings
Sometimes, a weak or inconsistent internet connection can be the culprit. If your network isn’t working well with Chrome, reset your network settings. On Android, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Reset Network Settings. On Windows, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Network Reset. This can help clear up any connectivity issues affecting Chrome.
Reset Google Chrome settings
If things are still acting up, you may want to reset Google Chrome’s settings. This restores everything to default without deleting your data. Go to Settings > Advanced > Reset Settings. Click Restore settings to their original defaults. This will clear any custom settings that might be causing the problem.
Disable cache using Chrome DevTools
If you want to dive a little deeper, Chrome’s Developer Tools offer a more advanced fix. Press F12 or Ctrl + Shift + I (or Cmd + Option + I on Mac) to open the Developer Tools. Go to the Network tab and check the box for Disable cache.
This will force Chrome to reload everything from scratch, bypassing the cache system altogether.
Advanced fixes for ERR_CACHE_MISS error
If you’ve tried the basic fixes and the ERR_CACHE_MISS error is still haunting you, don’t worry! It might be time to dig a little deeper. Here are some advanced fixes for those who are ready to roll up their sleeves and tackle the problem at its core:
Try incognito mode (or Guest Mode)
Sometimes the error could be tied to your regular browser profile. Extensions, settings and old session data might still be hanging around. To check if that’s the issue, open your site in Incognito Mode (or Guest Mode if you’re using Chrome).
These modes offer a clean slate, free from extensions and cached data. If the error disappears, you’ll know it’s time to clear up your regular browsing profile!
Clear the HTTP cache using DevTools
If clearing the regular browser cache didn’t do the trick, the issue might be with your HTTP cache. Developers often overlook this, but it’s a sneaky culprit. Here’s how you can force Chrome to bypass this cache and reload everything from scratch:
- Open Chrome DevTools (press F12 or Ctrl + Shift + I on Windows or Cmd + Option + I on Mac).
- Head to the Network tab.
- Make sure to check the box that says Disable Cache at the top.
- Refresh your page with DevTools open and watch Chrome reload all the resources without relying on any old cache. This is often the trick to bypassing stubborn errors like ERR_CACHE_MISS.
Check and update your service worker cache
If you’re working with a Progressive Web App or your website uses Service Workers for caching, the problem could be linked to an outdated service worker cache. Service workers can sometimes get stuck in an old version, causing issues with loading fresh content. To fix this:
- Open Chrome DevTools, go to the Application tab and click on Service Workers in the left panel.
- Check if your service worker is up to date. You might need to unregister it or refresh it to get rid of any old cache that’s causing the issue.
Look for CORS issues
If your website pulls in resources from other domains like third-party APIs or scripts CORS (Cross-Origin Resource Sharing) settings might be the culprit. When CORS isn’t configured properly, it can mess with caching and lead to errors like ERR_CACHE_MISS. To check:
- Open DevTools, navigate to the Network tab and find the resource that’s causing the error.
- Look at the Response Headers to see if there are any CORS-related issues. If CORS is the problem, you’ll need to adjust the server settings to allow access from different origins.
Flush your DNS cache
This one might sound a bit technical, but sometimes the DNS cache on your computer can cause network-related issues that lead to the ERR_CACHE_MISS error. To clear out any outdated DNS records:
- On Windows, open Command Prompt as Administrator and type:
ipconfig /flushdns - On Mac, open Terminal and type:
sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
This will reset your DNS cache and could resolve issues with accessing the correct website resources.
Also read: How to Flush Your DNS Cache
Inspect server-side cache
If you’re running a content management system (CMS) like WordPress or have a custom-built site, server-side caching might be the problem. Sometimes, the server holds onto old cache, serving outdated versions of your site to visitors (and your browser). To fix this:
Log into your hosting control panel or any caching plugins you use and clear the cache. You might also want to ensure the cache isn’t being overly aggressive in how it stores and serves resources.
Tips to avoid ERR_CACHE_MISS in the future
While fixing the ERR_CACHE_MISS error is easy, wouldn’t it be great if you could avoid it altogether? Thankfully, a little regular maintenance goes a long way in keeping your browser data. Let’s take a look at some simple steps you can take to prevent this error from popping up in the first place.
Regular browser maintenance
Just like you need to clean your home every now and then, your browser could use a little tidying up too.
Regularly clearing your cache and cookies can prevent data from building up and getting stale. A little routine cleaning will keep everything running smoothly and help you avoid potential errors like ERR_CACHE_MISS down the line.
Manage extensions
Extensions are great for adding functionality, but they can also cause chaos if left unchecked. Keep track of which extensions you actually use and disable or remove the ones you don’t need.
Less is often more when it comes to Chrome extensions. Fewer active add-ons mean fewer chances for conflicts that might trigger the error.
Keep software updated
It’s easy to ignore software updates, but they’re crucial for smooth performance and security. Make sure your browser, operating system and any important applications are always up to date.
Chrome and other browsers regularly release available updates to fix bugs and improve performance, which can help prevent errors like ERR_CACHE_MISS from cropping up. So, hit that “update” button when it shows up.
Just like your browser, your website also needs regular attention to perform its best. Improving website performance and reducing cache errors starts with choosing the right hosting provider. With Bluehost, you get reliable, fast hosting that minimizes issues like cache errors, ensuring your site is always ready for visitors.
Improve website performance and reduce cache errors with Bluehost
When it comes to website performance, your hosting provider plays a crucial role. It’s not just about getting your site live; it’s about how fast it loads, how smoothly it runs and how well it works with your browser’s caching system. If your hosting isn’t up to par, it can trigger cache errors or worse, slow down your entire browsing experience. A solid hosting can make a difference in avoiding these issues.
How website hosting impacts caching and browsing experience
Website hosting directly affects how well your site interacts with caching systems. A reliable hosting provider ensures that your website’s content is served quickly and efficiently to users. This reduces the chances of errors related to loading data. When hosting servers are fast and well-maintained, cached data has a better chance of syncing up correctly. Which leads to fewer issues for browsers trying to retrieve files.
Slow or unreliable hosting, on the other hand, can cause delayed load times, which might lead to browsers failing to retrieve cache data as expected. This is when errors like ERR_CACHE_MISS tend to pop up to make your website feel sluggish.
Why Bluehost is a great choice for performance and reliability
Known for its excellent performance and reliability, Bluehost is a top choice for anyone looking to minimize caching issues and improve their overall website experience. With fast loading speeds, robust uptime and a focus on security, Bluehost ensures that your website runs smoothly and efficiently.
Bluehost offers different hosting options to suit your needs and boost website performance:
- WordPress Hosting: If you’re using WordPress, WordPress hosting is optimized specifically for WordPress sites. With faster speeds, automatic updates and enhanced security, you can reduce cache errors and improve your website’s overall performance.
- Cloud Hosting: For websites that need more power and flexibility, Bluehost’s cloud hosting gives you the best of both worlds. It offers improved scalability, faster load times and enhanced security, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic sites.
- VPS Hosting: Looking for more control? VPS hosting gives you dedicated resources and full root access to your server, so you can optimize your site’s performance however you like.
- Dedicated Hosting: Best for large-scale websites and high-traffic businesses dedicated hosting is perfect for those needing full server control. It provides maximum performance, enhanced security and dedicated resources without sharing with other users.
Additionally, Bluehost offers caching tools that help optimize your site’s performance.
- NGINX caching stores frequently accessed pages for faster loading.
- Object caching (via Redis on advanced plans) speeds up database queries.
- Cloudflare CDN delivers static content from global servers, reducing latency.
These tools ensure a smooth browsing experience, reduce server load and minimize errors like ERR_CACHE_MISS or slow page loading times. Bluehost’s support team is always available to help manage your website and fix any issues you might face.
Final thoughts
While the ERR_CACHE_MISS error can be frustrating, it’s far from the end of the world. With the right knowledge and a few simple fixes, you can get back to browsing without missing a beat. Whether you’re refreshing your page, clearing your cache or managing your browser extensions, staying proactive about these issues will save you time and headaches down the road.
Cache errors don’t just happen—they’re often a result of underlying issues with your browser, your network connection or your website hosting. Investing in Bluehost’s reliable hosting can improve website performance, helping you avoid cache errors and offer a seamless experience to your visitors.
Want a website that loads fast and stays error-free? Choose Bluehost for reliable hosting and performance optimization.
FAQs
The ERR_CACHE_MISS error happens when your browser can’t access cached data to load a webpage, usually due to conflicts or network issues.
Yes, clearing your cache removes outdated or corrupted files, which can often resolve this error. It forces the browser window to reload fresh data.
Absolutely. If your connection is unstable, it can prevent Chrome from accessing cached data correctly, triggering the error. Try resetting your network settings to fix it.
Your hosting provider significantly impacts how your website interacts with caching systems. Reliable hosting ensures that your site’s content is served quickly and efficiently, reducing the chances of errors like ERR_CACHE_MISS. Fast and well-maintained servers help cached data sync correctly, leading to a smoother browsing experience.