Chrome is one of the most reliable web browsers, and that makes it quite popular with Mac users. But for all that reliability, Mac’s firewall settings might interfere with the browser.
This results in poor web browsing, as the firewall effectively blocks the browser from operating as intended.
I’m a software engineer who likes to troubleshoot common and less common Chrome issues on Mac to deliver an optimal web browsing experience.
While using Chrome as the default browser on Mac, I’ve come across this issue. Luckily, I have gone through the trouble of finding the right solution.
Let’s get started.
Contents
Easy Steps to Allow Chrome to Access a Network in Firewall on Mac
This issue is a surprisingly common one on Mac. When it happens, Chrome will display an error message that reads, “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NO_INTERNET.”
This suggests that you are not connected to the internet. But it’s actually the Mac firewall messing up with Chrome. Here is how to solve it.
Step 1: Click on the Apple icon on the top left corner, go to “System Preferences.”
Step 2: Select “Security & Privacy.”
Step 3: Locate the “Firewall” tab and click on it.
Step 4: You will need to unlock the tab by entering your username and password.
Step 5: Once unlocked, click on “Turn On Firewall.” On previous Mac versions, you might see a “Start” button. Press either of these, and it will allow Chrome access to Mac’s network firewall.
As you can see, the steps are quite easy to follow and easier to execute. But that begs the question, why do you even need to do this?
What Does the Firewall Do on Mac?
The whole idea of a firewall is to act as a security mechanism to deter possible outside vulnerabilities. As you can imagine, hackers are lurking all over the internet, patiently waiting for someone to catch their bait.
The firewall is the last line of defense that prevents unwanted network traffic. To mitigate these vulnerabilities, Chrome might not be allowed access to your network.
That’s precisely why you go through the steps and allow Chrome access to your network. The firewall doesn’t only prevent Chrome from accessing your Mac’s network, and it also prevents other software from accessing the network.
So if you ever come across this issue with other software, you will need to repeat the steps and allow access to that software.
Bear in mind that not every software you download is legit. That’s precisely how hackers and malicious actors seize control of your data. So be clever about what you download and what software you give access to your network.
Conclusion
That concludes this short guide on how to allow Chrome access to your Mac network firewall. Although many of you won’t come across this issue, it is still a surprisingly common issue on Mac systems.
Luckily, you now know how to solve the problem and continue browsing the internet using one of the best browsers.
