Google Chat is a popular messaging platform that allows users to communicate with each other in real time. However, there are times when Google Chat may not work properly, causing disruptions in productivity.
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind the Google Chat not working issue and will provide you with some quick fixes to get it back up and running again in no time.
Google Chat not working: Possible causes
Here are some of the most common causes for Google Chat not working issue:
Internet connection issues
An unstable or weak internet connection can prevent Google Chat from functioning properly. Also, a slow internet connection can cause a delay in message delivery or loading of the application.
Cache and cookies
Over time cache and cookies accumulate and can become corrupted, leading to conflicts with Google Chat’s functionality. This is true both for the browser and the app’s cache.
Browser extensions
Although a rare occurrence, sometimes conflicts with browser extensions or add-ons can interfere with Google Chat’s performance. Certain extensions may block or modify features of the application, resulting in malfunctions.
Outdated browser version
Are you using an outdated browser version on your computer or mobile? Using an outdated browser version can lead to compatibility issues with Google Chat. Older browsers may lack the necessary updates and security patches required for smooth operation.
Server disruptions
Google Chat may experience temporary server disruptions or outages, affecting its availability. This can be due to many reasons including server maintenance, technical issues, or other unforeseen events.
VPN issues
Using VPN may sometimes cause problems with certain apps and services.
Google Workspace service issues
As Google Chat is a part of the Google Workspace suite, service issues within the suite can affect the working of Google Chat as well. Problems with other Google Workspace applications or infrastructure can indirectly affect Google Chat.
Account-specific problems
Occasionally, specific account settings or configurations can cause Google Chat to malfunction. User-specific issues such as incorrect permissions, account restrictions, or misconfigured settings can disrupt the application.
Also read: How to fix Google Pay error: OR-CCSEH-21?
Google Chat not working: 10 possible fixes
Now that we have understood the possible reasons behind the Google Chat not working issue, let us dive into the fixes:
Check and fix your internet connection
Poor internet connection is often the cause of apps not working properly on your device. There can be many reasons why there is no internet connection at your home or device. There might be an internet outage in your area or some issues with your Internet Service Provider.
Another reason for bad internet connectivity is faulty hardware — router, modem and ethernet cables, among others.
Here are some points to remember and check if you are trying to fix your internet:
- First, make sure that there isn’t any internet outage in your area. You can ask your Internet Service Provider for the information or you can visit their website.
- If there is no outage, then it is time to check the hardware to make sure that they are not damaged. Check all the hardware associated with the internet connection. That includes your router, modem, power cable, and the main power source, among others. Ensure that all the hardware is undamaged and working properly. If you notice any damage, change it asap.
- If the hardware is fine, then it is time to check the connections. Make sure that the cables are secured firmly in the proper ports.
- Sometimes, there is too much distance between the WiFi and the receiving device. Make sure that the distance is less. Or, you can directly connect the internet to your computer as it provides a more stable speed compared to WiFi.
- Also, remove any other electronic appliances that might interfere with the WiFi signals. While you are at it, place the WiFi on a raised platform so that the devices catch signals seamlessly.
- If there are many devices connected to your network, remove them before playing games on the internet as the devices share the limited bandwidth of the plan. You can also think of upgrading your existing internet plan.
Resolving your internet issues is worth a try to fix the Google Chat not working problem or any other internet-related issue.
Check server disruptions
At times, Google Chat may experience service disruptions or outages that affect its functionality. You can visit the Google Workspace Status dashboard to check for any reported issues. If a disruption is ongoing, you may need to wait until the problem is resolved on Google’s end.
Clear cache and cookies
Corrupted cache files and cookies can interfere with Google Chat’s functionalities. Clearing these temporary files can often resolve issues. When I am talking about clearing cache and cookies, I mean both, the browser and the Google Chat app. Depending on the device where you are using Google Chat, you can perform the steps. For instance, if you are using Google Chat on a browser, clear the browser’s cache and if you are using the Google Chat app, clear the app’s cache and cookies.
Clear browser cache and cookies (Chrome)
Here are the steps to clear the cache on Google Chrome:
Step 1: Open Chrome and then click on the three-dot button > More tools > Clear browsing data.
Step 2: Check on Browsing history, Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files. Also, select the time range to All time. You can also select a particular time range, but we advise you to clear all your data. Next, click on Clear Data to finalise the process.
You can visit this article to find out another, more direct method to clear the cache on Chrome.
Clear browser cache and cookies (Edge)
Here are the steps to clear cache and cookies on Edge:
Step 1: In the Settings option, go to Privacy, search and services.
Step 2: Next, click on Choose what to clear.
Step 3: Tick all the options and then click on Clear Now.
Clear cache and cookies (Google Chat app)
Here are the steps to clear the cache and cookies of the Google Chat app:
- Go to Settings > All Apps > Google Chat.
- Now, tap on Storage and cache and then on Clear Storage and Clear Cache.
Sign out and then sign in
Sometimes, simple fixes like signing out and signing in again can fix several issues with the app or the platform. If Google Chat is not working, you can try this step before moving further.
Update your browser
Developers regularly release patches to fix several minor bugs in Chrome. Therefore, make it a habit to regularly update the app.
To update Chrome, Go to Help > About Chrome from the drop-down menu. You will see updating Chrome tab on your screen.
Check for Google Chat app updates
If you haven’t updated the Google Chat application in a while, now is a good time to do so. Outdated applications run into all sorts of errors which can be mildly frustrating. Here’s how to update the Google Chat app:
- Open Google Play Store on your mobile and then search Google Chat in the search bar at the top.
- If there is an update available, you’ll see an Update button. Tap on the button to install the update and you are good to go.
After installing the app, check whether the Google Chat not working problem is solved or not. If not, move on to the next steps.
Disable VPN
Virtual Private Network tunnels your data through a private network thereby adding another layer of privacy. However, companies usually do not want users to use VPNs. So, if you are using a VPN, try to disable it and then use Google Chat.
VPN services are usually paid but there are a few free VPNs as well. But do remember that free VPNs are not up to the privacy standards and are loaded with adware.
Disable the browser extensions
As we have mentioned earlier, faulty browser extensions can cause problems with websites and cause them to crash. However, it is difficult to exactly pinpoint which browser extension is at fault here. One way is to disable all the extensions and then re-enable them one by one. On the other hand, you can disable the extensions while using the website and then turn on each extension after you are done.
Want to know some of the most useful Chrome extensions? Check out our list of the most useful Chrome extensions.
In both cases, you need to know the steps involved in disabling the extensions in Chrome. To disable extensions in Chrome, go to the three-dot menu and then click on More tools > Extensions. Next, turn off the toggle in front of the extension.
Flush DNS
Flushing DNS resolves many internet connectivity issues. Here’s how you can flush DNS using the command prompt in Windows:
Step 1: Press the Windows key + R and type in cmd.
Step 2: Use the commands ipconfig /flushdns to reset DNS settings to default.
If the above command doesn’t help, enter the following commands one at a time.
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip resetIf you suspect an issue with your router’s DHCP assignment, use these commands to release your old IP and request a new one.
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renewIf the above solution didn’t work, use the following commands to reset your network stack.
ipconfig/flushdns
nbtstat -R
nbtstat -RR
netsh int ip reset C:\resetlog.txt
netsh winsock resetIf you are a Mac user, head to the Terminal and then type in sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder. Next, type in your password when prompted, and try re-accessing the internet.
Reinstall the Google Chat app
You can try to uninstall and then reinstall the Google Chat app before contacting Google support. If this didn’t work, then move on to the last step.
Contact Google support
If nothing works, then contacting Google support is your last option. Once you contact them, explain your problem in detail and also explain what steps you have already taken.
Also read: Unable to connect to Google chat: 6 Fixes
Frequently answered questions (FAQs)
Let us head to some of the FAQs:
Why won’t my Google Chat work?
It is hard to exactly pinpoint the reason why Google Chat isn’t working. However, there can be many general reasons for that including internet issues, server outages, VPN issues, cache and cookies issues, outdated browsers or the Google Chat app.
How do I fix Google Chat on Android?
You can update the Google Chat app, clear cache and cookies, fix your internet issues, check for server outages, and uninstall and reinstall the app to fix Google Chat on Android.
How do I get Google Chat to work?
Fixing your internet, updating the browser and app, and restarting the device usually fixes the issue with Google Chat. For more information, read the article above.
Also read: How to unblock someone on Google Chat?
