FIX: Failed – network error in Google Chrome
- Google Chrome is a great browser, but even the best browsers have issues.
- Many users reported various errors and one of them is Failed – network error Chrome error.
- To fix this issue, make sure that your security settings aren’t interfering with Google Chrome.
- This article is a part of our Chrome hub, so be sure to visit the hub for more in-depth solutions.
Google Chrome is one of the most popular browsers out there. It’s used daily by millions of people, and it’s constantly being developed and improved.
Despite all that, Chrome doesn’t come without it’s faults. One of the most common issues reported by users is Download Failed: Network Error. Today we will focus on how to get rid of this problem once and for all.
How can I fix Chrome network error when downloading large files? You can easily fix network errors on file download by cleaning up your PC from Chrome‘s advanced setting.
In most cases, this error is caused by malware. If this doesn’t fix your problem, change the antivirus settings or modify the Windows Attachment Manager restrictions.
How do I fix network errors blocking file download on Chrome?
1. Try the download in another browser
This error often appears when you try to download a certain file from a certain website, but it can also be spread across multiple file downloads.
The first thing you need to do is to check the download in another browser. In this way you can establish if the issue is with the file that needs to be downloaded or if it’s specific to Chrome.
If the download works without any problem in other browsers, then the error is specific to Chrome and you’ll have to check the next solutions.
Speaking of launching the download on another browser, if you don’t know what if browser to use, we recommend UR Browser.
This browser is built on an enhanced version of Chromium which makes it lightning fast. Moreover, UR relies on a special file download technology that basically splits files into smaller parts that are then downloaded simultaneously.
- Fast page loading
- VPN-level privacy
- Enhanced security
- Built-in virus scanner
2. Check your security settings
- Open the antivirus.
- Go to Setting.
- Find Advanced setup, Additional, or Components. (Depending on your antivirus software)
- You will see HTTPS scanning or Encrypted connection scanning. Uncheck it.
- Now try downloading the file.
If this doesn’t solve the problem, perform a Clean up from Chrome settings to remove harmful software:
- Open Chrome.
- Go to Settings > scroll all the way down and click Advanced.
- Scroll down and click Clean up computer.
- Hit Find and wait for the process to finish.
- After that, check if the download works.
Additionally, the download could be blocked by the Windows Attachment Manager. This software comes with Windows 10 and acts like a guard dog, protecting your PC of malware or unwanted software.
If Windows Attachment Manager decides that the file you are trying to download is not secure, it will automatically block the download. To change these security settings, follow the steps:
- In the search bar type inetcpl.cpl and hit Enter.
- The Internet Proprieties window will appear. Choose Security tab.
- In the Select a zone to view or change security settings click on Internet and then Custom level…
- Scroll down to Downloads > Miscellaneous > Launching applications and unsafe files and check Enable.
- Hit OK and try to download your file.
Don’t forget to revert back to your initial settings after you download the file. Allowing unsafe apps and files on your PC can be harmful and you’ll have to keep that in mind.
3. Other general fixes
In the end, you can try some more simpler solutions that don’t always work, but they just might in your case:
- Use Incognito mode in Google Chrome.
- Reset Chrome settings.
- Remove Chrome extensions
- Install the latest Network Drivers.
- Check for Chrome updates.
- Reinstall Google Chrome.
We hope that one of the solutions helped you get pass the Failed – Network Error message and you successfully downloaded the files you need.
If you have any more questions or solutions regarding this problem, don’t hesitate to reach for the comments section below.
FAQ: Learn more about Google Chrome
- Why are my downloads failing on Chrome?
Downloads can fail for numerous reasons, but the most likely is your security settings in your antivirus or firewall.
- Why is Chrome blocking my downloads?
If Chrome is blocking your downloads, it’s possible that you’re downloading them from a suspicious source, therefore the downloads are blocked for your own security.
- How do I fix Google Chrome network failed?
To fix network failed error in Chrome, check your security settings or remove the problematic extensions.
- How do you stop Chrome from blocking downloads?
To stop Chrome from blocking downloads, open the Chrome Menu > Settings > Advanced > Privacy and security. Now disable the Safe Browsing feature.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in May 2019 and has been since revamped and updated in April 2020 for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.
