How to Fix “Download Failed Network Error” on Chrome?

Network difficulties and download errors are more common than you’d think, and the Google Chrome browser is no exception.

So, if you’re desperate because you cannot download your favorite movies and TV shows today, you’re not alone.

Although several factors are in play, the solutions are relatively easy and guarantee to get you back on track ASAP.

Accordingly, this article provides comprehensive instructions to help you understand and resolve the failed network error download.

What Causes the “Download Failed Network Error” Issue on Chrome?

Despite the error message reading “Failed – Network error,” the issue doesn’t necessarily revolve around connection difficulties.

A number of factors can intercept your downloads on Google Chrome and lead to a network error, and the list below explains them all.

• Unreliable network connection: The most probable reason behind the download failed network error is an unstable network connection interrupting the download.
• Antivirus settings: While antivirus software brings dozens of security advantages to the table, it could intercept your internet connection and lead to a failed network error.
• Outdated browser extensions: Chrome extensions add new features to your browser to make it more useful. However, obsolete or corrupt extensions could intercept with your
• Incorrect browser settings: Chrome offers advanced configurations for tech-savvy users. However, you could mess things up if you modify them improperly.
• Corrupted Windows network drivers: Drivers create the bridge between your hardware and software. Outdated OS drivers could lead to issues like the download failed network error.
• Internal software conflicts: Built-in tools like the Windows Attachment Manager can be another reason for facing the error. Clear such conflicts before moving to other solutions.
• Misconfigured OS settings: Your operating system has various network configurations that directly impact your browser’s behavior. However, you can conveniently adjust them and fix the issues.

Now that you understand where the problems originate, you can dive into the solutions and fix them.

Fixing the “Download Failed Network Error” on Google Chrome

The following guidelines take you step-by-step with clear instructions and help resolve the download failed network error for good.

1. Check the internet speed and connection

Understandably, you require a reliable internet connection to download your desired files without facing any errors.

You can follow the steps below to check your network:

1. Go to Speedtest by Ookla and click GO.
2. Wait for the software to analyze your network.

Consider that the average internet speed in the US remains around 100 Mbps, and you should contact your ISP if it drops far below that, potentially causing a network error.

2. Adjust your antivirus software settings

Reputable antivirus software comes with network monitoring features like HTTPS scanning that could go wrong and block all downloads.

The steps below explain how to disable HTTPS scanning on Avast:

1. Click on the Start Menu, type Avast, and press Enter.
2. Select the Menu from the top right corner and open Settings.
3. Navigate to Protection, choose the Core Shields tab, and uncheck the box next to Enable HTTPS scanning.

Your downloads shouldn’t face the failed network issue now. However, consider re-enabling the HTTPS scanning feature when your download finishes.

3. Try the browser Incognito Mode

Chrome’s Incognito Mode disables all browser extensions and lets you figure out whether an outdated plugin was guilty of causing the issue.

Here’s how to enter Incognito Mode on Chrome:

1. Click on the Start Menu, type Chrome, and press Enter.
2. Select the Ellipsis icon to open the More Menu and choose the New Incognito tab from the drop-down.

If it fixes the download failed network error, disable all extensions and re-enable them one by one to identify the problematic one.

4. Update Google Chrome

Google releases software updates regularly to enhance Chrome’s security measures, boost its overall performance, and add new features. However, if the application is outdated, it can cause issues like failed network error on Chrome.

Follow these instructions to successfully update Chrome:

1. Click on the Start Menu, type Chrome, and press Enter.
2. Select the Ellipsis icon to open the More Menu, hover over Help, and select About Google Chrome.
3. Then pick Check for updates to download and install available updates.

Try to download files with an up-to-date browser to see if the failed network bug goes away. Then move to the next solution if they didn’t.

5. Reset Chrome or try another browser

The Chrome browser has a Reset feature that disables all third-party plugins, removes site data, and puts the browser in default settings.

Follow the guide below to reset Google Chrome:

1. Click on the Start Menu, type Chrome, and press Enter.fffffff
2. Select the Menu from the top right corner and open Settings.
3. Navigate to the Reset settings section, and click Restore settings to their original defaults.
4. When the confirmation message pops up, choose the Reset settings button.

You can additionally move to another browser to test if the download failed network error only surfaces on Chrome or all browsers.

You can install Opera, Maxthon, or Avant Browser if you have a slow computer.

6. Update the network drivers

Windows network drivers directly impact how programs behave on your computer and must remain up-to-date.

Follow these steps to update network drivers using Device Manager:

1. Right-click on the Start Menu and open Device Manager.
2. Expand Network adapters, right-click on each driver, and select Update driver.
3. Pick Search Automatically for Updated Driver Software to download the driver from the Microsoft library.

Now that your network drivers are updated, you can conveniently open Chrome and get your download files.

7. Configure the Windows Attachment Manager settings

Windows Attachment Manager is a built-in security feature that protects your device from harmful files in your emails and downloads.

Follow these steps to ensure Windows Attachment Manager isn’t the reason behind the download failed network error:

1. Right-click on the Start Menu and open Run.
2. Type inetcpl.cpl and select OK to enter Internet Properties.
3. While on the Security tab, click Custom level.
4. Scroll down to the Downloads option, and check the box next to Enable under File download.
5. Then scroll down to the Miscellaneous option, check the box next to Prompt (recommended) under Launching applications and unsafe files, and click OK.
6. Choose Apply, then OK to save the changes.
7. Reboot the computer.

You shouldn’t face the regarded issue on Chrome. Check again and move to the following approach if it persists.

8. Change the default downloads folder

Incorrect system configuration, including the chosen download folder, could be another reason behind the download failed network error.

Here’s how to change the default downloads location on Chrome:

1. Click on the Start Menu, type Chrome, and press Enter.
2. Select the Ellipsis icon to open the More Menu and choose Settings.
3. Navigate to the Downloads tab and click Change to pick your desired folder.
4. Reboot the computer for the changes to take effect.

Hopefully, the issue’s gone. Alternatively, consider contacting Chrome’s official support line if the problem persists.

Wrap up

The Google Chrome browser, like all other browsers, is prone to dozens of software glitches and internal errors.

For instance, the download failed network error is a frustrating message that prevents you from downloading files with Chrome.

Knowing there are several reasons behind the issue, you should employ various approaches until the error disappears.

However, if none of the solutions worked, contact a Chrome specialist and seek further assistance.