How to Fix 'This Site Can't Be Reached' Error
Diagnose in 2 minutes: site-down vs your connection, DNS, cache and VPN causes.
By DigitalNepal · Updated 2026-10-04
This generic Chrome error hides five different causes. Check them in order instead of reinstalling anything.
Steps
1Confirm the site is up
Use the Website Down Checker. Down for everyone? Wait it out - nothing on your device to fix.
2Reload past cache
Ctrl+Shift+R hard reload. Then clear that site's browsing data if it persists.
3Disable VPN and extensions
VPNs and ad-blockers break specific sites. Test in Incognito with extensions off.
4Switch DNS
Set 1.1.1.1 temporarily. DNS failures produce exactly this error with full Wi-Fi bars.
Good to know: Note the small error code under the message (DNS_PROBE, CONNECTION_RESET) - it names the true cause.
FAQ
Only office/college Wi-Fi?
Filtered network. Mobile-data test confirms; use allowed networks for that site.
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