Download Failed: Network Error in Google Chrome [Full Fix]
- As popular as it may be, Google Chrome is not flawless. The download failed network error is just one of many.
- Nevertheless, the failed network error can be most frustrating since it blocks your downloads.
- To fix the Chrome download failed network error, take a closer look at your security settings and be on the lookout for malware.
- The failed download error can just as easily be triggered by problematic extensions, so make sure to eliminate them.

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 errors. One of the most common issues reported by users is the download failed network error.
In most cases, this error is caused by malware, so you should try using a dedicated tool to scan your device. If this doesn’t fix your problem, change the antivirus settings, or modify the Windows Attachment Manager restrictions.
Today we will focus on how to get rid of the Chrome failed network error once and for all.
Quick Tip:
We recommend trying to download the files in Opera, a lightweight, fast, and highly customizable browser. The Synchronization option in Opera allows you to import bookmarks, pages, and other data from your default browser.
Further on, you can continue to customize the browser to your needs, by adding icons, sidebars, workspaces, and other extensions.

Opera
Try Opera and convince yourself of its speedy processes that allow you to download any file within seconds.
How do I fix Network error when downloading in Chrome?
1. Check your security settings
- Open the antivirus.
- Go to Settings.
- Find Advanced setup, Additional, or Components. (Note: These can differ according to 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 Cleanup 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.
Change settings for Windows Attachment Manager
- In the search bar type inetcpl.cpl and hit Enter.
- The Internet Proprieties window will appear. Choose the 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.
Windows Attachment Manager comes with Windows 10 and acts as a guard dog, protecting your PC from 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 action.
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.
2. Other general fixes
In the end, you can try some 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 these solutions helped you get past the Chrome download failed Network error and that you successfully retrieved the files you needed.
If you have any questions or happen to know of other solutions to fix this problem, don’t hesitate to reach for the comments section below.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Downloads can fail for numerous reasons, but the most likely is your security settings in your antivirus or firewall.
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If Chrome is blocking your downloads, it’s possible that you’re downloading them from a suspicious source. Here’s a quick guide to help with Chrome downloads.
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First, check your security settings, try scanning Chrome for malware, and remove any problematic extensions.