Understanding the Error: ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS
Introduction
When browsing the internet, you may have come across a message saying “ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS” instead of loading the webpage you wanted to visit. This can be frustrating, especially if you donโt know what it means or how to fix it. In this article, we’ll explain what this error is, why it happens, and how you can resolve it.
What Does “ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS” Mean?
The “ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS” error occurs when a webpage gets stuck in a loop of redirects. A redirect is when a webpage automatically sends you to a different page. This might happen for several reasons, such as moving a page to a new URL or directing users to a mobile-friendly version of a site. However, when a site has too many redirects that go back and forth without ever loading the content, your browser gives up and shows this error.
Why Does This Error Happen?
Several reasons can cause the “ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS” error:
- Incorrect Website Settings: Sometimes, a website’s server is set up incorrectly, causing it to loop between different pages. For example, it might be set to redirect from “http://example.com” to “https://example.com” and then back again endlessly.
- Browser Cookies and Cache: Cookies and cache stored in your browser might have outdated information, leading to the redirect loop. This outdated data can confuse the browser, causing the error.
- Faulty Plugins or Extensions: If you are using plugins or extensions (especially on platforms like WordPress), a faulty plugin or extension could cause redirection problems.
- Incorrect URL Settings: Sometimes, website owners may accidentally set up the wrong URL redirects, causing users to be redirected in circles.
How to Fix “ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS”
There are a few simple steps you can take to fix this error:
1. Clear Your Browserโs Cookies and Cache:
- Cookies and cache often store outdated data, which can lead to errors. Clearing them can resolve the issue.
- To clear cookies and cache:
- Open your browser settings.
- Look for the option to clear browsing data.
- Select “Cookies and other site data” and “Cached images and files.”
- Click “Clear data” or a similar button.
2. Check the Website in Incognito Mode:
- Try opening the website in incognito or private browsing mode. This mode does not use stored cookies or cache, so if the site loads correctly, the problem might be with your regular browser data.
3. Disable Browser Extensions:
- Some browser extensions can cause redirection problems. Try disabling them to see if that fixes the issue.
- To do this:
- Go to your browserโs extensions settings.
- Disable all extensions.
- Reload the page to see if the error is gone.
4. Contact the Website Administrator:
- If you are a regular user and none of the above solutions work, the issue might be with the website itself. Contact the website owner or administrator to inform them about the problem.
5. Check Website Settings (For Website Owners):
- If you own the website, check your redirect settings in your websiteโs configuration or content management system (like WordPress). Make sure there are no conflicting redirects.
6. Check Server Settings:
- Website owners should also check their server settings. Sometimes, server-level issues cause redirect loops. Consult your hosting provider or a web developer to review the settings.
Conclusion
The “ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS” error is a common problem when browsing the internet, but it is often easy to fix. By clearing your cookies and cache, checking your extensions, or reaching out to the website administrator, you can often resolve this issue in just a few minutes. Understanding what causes this error can help you prevent it from happening in the future, whether you are a regular internet user or a website owner.
FAQs about “ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS”
- What does “ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS” mean?
This error means that the webpage you are trying to visit is stuck in a loop of redirects. It keeps redirecting to different pages without ever loading the content, causing the browser to give up and show this error. - How can I fix the “ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS” error?
You can fix this error by clearing your browser’s cookies and cache, trying the site in incognito mode, disabling browser extensions, or contacting the website administrator if the issue persists. - Can browser extensions cause the “ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS” error?
Yes, some browser extensions can cause redirection problems. Disabling all extensions and then checking if the error still occurs can help identify if an extension is the cause. - Will clearing cookies and cache help fix the error?
Yes, clearing cookies and cache often resolves this issue. Old or outdated data stored in your browser might cause confusion, leading to redirect errors. - What should I do if the error is still there after trying all the fixes?
If the error persists after trying all the common fixes, it may be a problem with the website itself. You should contact the website owner or administrator and inform them about the issue.