LibAnswers: Customer Services

What does the ERR_EMPTY_RESPONSE message mean?

The ERR_EMPTY_RESPONSE error is a browser-related issue that means when you tried to visit a website, your browser didn't receive any response from the server.

What causes this error message?

This error can occur when there's a problem with your internet connection, the website's server, or settings in your browser. It can also be caused by browser extensions or too much browser cache.

How to fix this error message

1. Try using ‘Incognito Mode’

Outdated or corrupted information stored in your browser may make it difficult to access a website. If you select ‘Incognito Mode’, your browser will not save site data or your browsing history. Try using this option to see if you can now access the site.

2. Clear your browser’s cache

Your browser stores temporary copies of websites you visit to help them load quickly. If these copies are outdated or corrupted they can cause problems. Look in your browser's settings to find how to clear this cache.

3. Disable your extensions

Extensions are third party tools that add extra functionality to your browser. To determine if any of your extensions are causing the error message, try disabling your extensions.  If this allows you to access the website without seeing the error message try enabling your extensions one by one to see if you can identify the problematic extension.

4. Clear your DNS Cache

Domain Name System (DNS) is a network protocol that translates website names into IP addresses. These records can also become outdated or corrupt.

To clear your DNS cache in Windows, you can use the ipconfig /flushdns command. On Mac, you can use the dscacheutil -flushcache command.

To run a command, you can type “cmd” in your Windows search bar, then right-click on the Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator, followed by OK. On Mac, you can select Terminal from the Utilities menu.

5. Reset your network settings

If you’re still seeing the error message, the next step is to reset your network settings. This involves clearing all your network connections and starting fresh.

To do this, you’ll need to use the Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac). You will need to input the following commands, pressing your Enter key after each one:

ipconfig /release

ipconfig /all

ipconfig /flushdns

ipconfig /renew

netsh int ip set dns

netsh winsock reset

Close the Command Prompt window and then restart your computer.

Contact the Electronic Resources Helpdesk if you require further assistance.