ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS in Chrome Android: What You Need to Know and How to Fix It

Imagine this: you’re browsing your favorite site, and suddenly you’re hit with an error screen that reads, "ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS." The frustration is immediate, especially if you're on your Android device using Chrome. This issue can stop you in your tracks, whether you're shopping online, catching up on news, or navigating to a work-related site. Why does it happen, and more importantly, how can you fix it? The solutions are simple, but getting to the bottom of it can feel elusive if you're unfamiliar with the technical jargon.

What Exactly Is ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS?

At its core, this error means the website is stuck in an endless loop of redirects. The site’s server tries to forward your browser to a new location, but instead of completing the cycle, it keeps bouncing back between two or more URLs. This typically occurs due to a configuration issue on the server, not a fault of your browser or device.

Why Does It Happen? The Technical Side

One common cause is when a site has conflicting settings, such as improperly configured HTTPS settings. When the server tries to redirect traffic from HTTP to HTTPS, but the process goes awry, it sends your browser into a loop. Other causes can include misconfigured cookies, conflicting server directives, or, in some cases, poorly managed content delivery networks (CDNs).

Another layer to consider is website caching. If old redirects are stored in the cache, your browser may follow outdated instructions and trigger the error. The issue can seem invisible to website owners, but it’s a nightmare for users trying to load the site.

How to Fix ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS on Chrome Android

If you’re an Android user facing this error in Chrome, there are a few simple methods to resolve it.

1. Clear Cookies and Cache

One of the easiest solutions is to clear your browser's cookies and cache. Cookies store pieces of information about websites, including past redirects. If the stored data is outdated or corrupted, it may cause a redirect loop.

To clear cookies and cache on Chrome for Android:

• Open Chrome.
• Tap the three dots in the upper right corner.
• Select "Settings" > "Privacy and security" > "Clear browsing data".
• Choose a time range (recommend selecting "All time") and check the boxes for "Cookies and site data" and "Cached images and files".
• Hit "Clear data".

After doing this, try reloading the website.

2. Disable Extensions

Certain browser extensions can interfere with the site’s redirection process, especially those that manage cookies, change HTTP settings, or modify content. Temporarily disabling extensions can solve the problem.

Since Chrome for Android doesn't support extensions, this advice is more relevant for desktop versions. However, if you're syncing data across devices and have extensions enabled on your desktop, the problem might persist in mobile.

3. Update Chrome

An outdated browser may not handle redirect protocols correctly. Check to ensure that Chrome is updated to the latest version.

To update Chrome on Android:

• Open the Google Play Store.
• Search for "Chrome" and tap on the browser.
• If an update is available, tap "Update".

4. Verify Website Settings (for Website Owners)

If you manage or own the website encountering the error, ensure that your redirect settings are configured properly. Double-check your SSL certificates, HTTPS configurations, and Content Delivery Network (CDN) settings. Tools like Google Search Console or online redirect checkers can help diagnose where the problem lies.

5. Use a Different Browser

Sometimes the issue is localized to Chrome. If clearing cookies, disabling extensions, or updating the browser doesn't resolve the issue, try using another browser like Firefox or Opera. If the problem persists, it’s likely a server-side issue that the website’s admin needs to address.

6. Contact Website Support

If none of these steps work, the website itself may be at fault. In such cases, contacting the website’s support team or webmaster may help expedite a solution.

Why Does This Keep Happening?

ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS can be a recurring issue for certain websites, especially those undergoing frequent changes to their security settings or DNS configurations. As more websites move to HTTPS to comply with modern security standards, misconfigurations are increasingly common. Site owners might implement new redirects without fully testing how these changes interact with old settings, leading to errors.

Additionally, if a site relies heavily on external services (such as ad networks, third-party content providers, or cloud platforms), a misconfiguration on any of these platforms could cascade into a redirect loop.

Long-term Solutions for Webmasters

For those managing websites, preventing ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS involves a combination of proactive measures:

1. Monitor Redirects Regularly: Use tools like Screaming Frog or Ahrefs to check for broken or looping redirects.
2. Simplify Redirect Chains: Avoid redirecting a user multiple times before reaching the final destination.
3. Ensure SSL Settings Are Properly Configured: Mixed content warnings or forcing HTTPS without proper setup can create infinite loops.
4. Limit External Dependencies: The fewer external platforms you rely on, the fewer chances something beyond your control can go wrong.

Conclusion: The Cost of Ignoring This Issue

If you’re a user, encountering ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS can feel like a nuisance. But for businesses and site owners, it represents a significant risk. Every instance of this error could mean lost sales, frustrated visitors, and damaged reputation. That's why fixing it quickly is paramount.

It's not just about clearing cookies or updating the browser; for many, the problem lies with how a site manages its redirects. If not properly monitored, these errors can become a recurring obstacle, costing companies potential revenue and customer trust.

In a world where website performance is critical to user experience, making sure that something as avoidable as ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS doesn’t ruin the browsing experience should be a priority for any site administrator.