Chrome ERR_PROXY_CONNECTION_FAILED — Proxy Server Unreachable

Fix Chrome ERR_PROXY_CONNECTION_FAILED error when Chrome cannot connect to the configured proxy server, preventing all web browsing. This guide covers everything you need to know about this topic, including common causes, step-by-step solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Here are the key things to understand: ERR_PROXY_CONNECTION_FAILED means Chrome is configured to use a proxy but cannot reach it. Chrome uses the system proxy settings (Windows: Internet Options, Mac: System Preferences). Corporate environments often require proxy for internet access. VPN software and browser extensions can set proxy settings without obvious indication. Malware sometimes sets a proxy to intercept traffic. Understanding these fundamentals will help you diagnose and resolve this issue more effectively.

The most common reasons this occurs include: Proxy server is down or unreachable. Incorrect proxy settings configured in the system. VPN extension or software set a proxy that is no longer running. Malware configured a malicious proxy to intercept traffic. PAC (Proxy Auto-Configuration) file URL is unreachable. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward finding the right solution.

To resolve this, follow these recommended steps: Check proxy settings: Chrome > Settings > System > Open proxy settings. Windows: disable proxy — Settings > Network > Proxy > turn off manual proxy and auto-detect. Mac: System Settings > Network > Wi-Fi > Proxies > uncheck all proxies. Check for VPN or proxy extensions in Chrome: chrome://extensions. Run malware scan if proxy settings keep reverting to unwanted values. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider consulting additional resources or a qualified professional.

This article is part of our Browser Errors collection on Error Codes Wiki. We provide comprehensive, up-to-date information to help you find solutions quickly.