If you're having the same problems loading websites on every browser, these are some possible causes and ways to fix them.
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Security software is blocking the connection
Check if your Internet security software (including firewalls, antivirus programs, anti-spyware programs and more) is blocking the connection to the Internet. For instructions on how to configure some programs, read Configure firewalls so that Firefox can access the Internet.
System time is incorrect
Make sure your system's date, time and timezone settings are configured correctly. Firefox may have issues validating the website's security certificate if the date/time is incorrect.
DNS cache
Every web server connected to the Internet is assigned a number known as its IP address. Domain names are assigned to IP addresses through a Domain Name System (DNS) server. Your computer stores recent IP address assignments so it can connect to sites more quickly, but if there is a discrepancy between the DNS server and the IP address assignments on your computer, it will cause every browser on your computer to have problems finding some websites. To remove the recently stored IP address assignments, flush your DNS cache.
- Hold down the Windows key and press R.
- Type cmd and press Enter.
- In the command prompt, type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
Restart MacOS to flush your DNS cache.
- Open the command terminal.
- Run the command /etc/init.d/nscd restart
Wireless connection
If you are using a wireless connection, make sure that you are using the correct access point.
Internet Service Provider problem
Even if your modem and/or router are both on and are not indicating errors, there may be a problem with your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Contact your ISP for more information.
DNS server problem
Your Domain Name System (DNS) server translates web addresses (URLs) into IP addresses and is usually provided by your ISP. If the DNS server is overloaded, you may be unable to view some or all websites. For example, if http://74.125.53.99 or http://74.125.159.105 work but http://www.google.com doesn't, you may have a DNS problem. You can use an alternative service such as OpenDNS or Google Public DNS.
Other resources
If neither Firefox nor another browser can load any websites, your problem is external to Firefox and you should seek support elsewhere.
- See Wired and wireless network problems at microsoft.com.
- See OS X El Capitan: If you can’t connect to the Internet at apple.com.