ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS and Ad Blockers: What I Think

I recently stumbled upon a fascinating online discussion concerning the dreaded ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS error, and the possibility of it being triggered by ad-blocking extensions. This got me thinking about the complex interplay between ad blockers, website functionality, and the user experience.

The core issue, as described by someone online, involved encountering the ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS error intermittently when performing Google searches. The user suspected uBlock Origin, a popular ad-blocking extension, as the culprit. While I haven't personally experienced this exact scenario, it raises some important points about how ad blockers function and the potential unintended consequences of their use.

Let's dive deeper into the potential causes and solutions, viewed from the perspective of someone dedicated to providing effective and unobtrusive ad blocking.

Understanding ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS

Before dissecting the role of ad blockers, it's crucial to understand what ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS signifies. This error message indicates that a website is caught in a redirection loop. In simpler terms, your browser is being bounced back and forth between different URLs, unable to reach the intended destination. This can happen for various reasons, including:

• Misconfigured website: The website itself might have incorrect redirection rules.
• Cookie issues: Corrupted or conflicting cookies can sometimes trigger redirection loops.
• Server problems: Temporary server glitches can lead to redirection errors.
• Browser extension conflicts: As the online discussion suggests, browser extensions, especially ad blockers, can sometimes interfere with website redirects.

How Ad Blockers Can Cause Redirection Issues

Ad blockers work by intercepting network requests and blocking those that match known ad servers or tracking scripts. They achieve this by using filter lists – extensive databases of URLs and patterns associated with advertising and tracking. However, this process can sometimes lead to unintended consequences:

• Overly aggressive filtering: If a filter list is too aggressive, it might inadvertently block legitimate resources or scripts that are essential for a website's functionality, including those involved in redirection processes.
• Conflict with website scripts: Some websites use complex scripts to manage user sessions, track analytics, or perform other essential tasks. Ad blockers might interfere with these scripts, leading to redirection errors.
• Cache and cookie interference: Ad blockers can sometimes modify or delete cookies to prevent tracking. While this is generally beneficial, it can occasionally disrupt website functionality that relies on cookies for redirection.

Analyzing the uBlock Origin Scenario

In the specific case mentioned in the online discussion, the user suspected uBlock Origin of causing the ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS error during Google searches. Here's my take on why this might be happening:

• Google's anti-ad blocking measures: Google, like many large websites that rely on advertising revenue, actively tries to circumvent ad blockers. They might use techniques that inadvertently trigger redirection loops when an ad blocker is detected.
• Filter list updates: uBlock Origin's filter lists are constantly updated to block new ad servers and tracking methods. It's possible that a recent update introduced a rule that inadvertently interferes with Google's search redirection process.
• Specific filter list configurations: uBlock Origin allows users to customize their filter lists. It's possible that the user had enabled a specific filter list or rule that was causing the issue.

Troubleshooting ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS with Ad Blockers

If you suspect that your ad blocker is causing ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS errors, here are some troubleshooting steps you can take:

1. Disable the Ad Blocker Temporarily

The simplest way to determine if your ad blocker is the culprit is to disable it temporarily and see if the error disappears. If the error goes away, then you know that the ad blocker is likely the cause.

2. Whitelist the Website

Most ad blockers allow you to whitelist specific websites, meaning that the ad blocker will be disabled for those sites. If you're experiencing ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS errors on a particular website, try whitelisting it in your ad blocker settings. This can be a good compromise, allowing you to block ads on most websites while still being able to access the problematic site.

3. Update Filter Lists

Make sure that your ad blocker's filter lists are up to date. Ad blocker developers regularly update their filter lists to block new ad servers and tracking methods. Updating your filter lists can sometimes resolve conflicts that are causing ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS errors.

4. Review Custom Filters

If you've added any custom filters to your ad blocker, review them carefully. It's possible that one of your custom filters is causing the issue. Try disabling your custom filters one by one to see if the error disappears.

5. Try a Different Ad Blocker

If you've tried all of the above steps and you're still experiencing ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS errors, try using a different ad blocker. It's possible that the ad blocker you're using is simply not compatible with the website you're trying to access.

6. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

Sometimes, corrupted browser cache and cookies can cause ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS errors. Try clearing your browser's cache and cookies to see if that resolves the issue.

7. Check Website Configuration (Less Likely)

While less likely if the issue is isolated to your device, it's worth checking if the website itself has any misconfigurations. You can use online tools to analyze the website's redirection chain and identify any potential problems. However, if the problem is widespread, the website owners are likely already aware of it.

Balancing Ad Blocking and Website Functionality

The ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS issue highlights the delicate balance between ad blocking and website functionality. While ad blockers can significantly improve the browsing experience by removing intrusive ads and trackers, they can also sometimes interfere with website functionality. It's important to be aware of this potential conflict and to take steps to troubleshoot any issues that arise.

From our perspective at AdBlock for Mobile, we strive to provide ad blocking solutions that are both effective and unobtrusive. We carefully curate our filter lists to minimize the risk of blocking legitimate resources or scripts. We also provide users with the ability to whitelist specific websites and customize their filter lists to suit their individual needs.

The Importance of DNS-Based Ad Blocking

This situation also underscores the benefits of DNS-based ad blocking, which is the approach we champion at AdBlock for Mobile. Unlike browser extensions, DNS-based blocking operates at the network level, filtering out ad requests before they even reach your device. This approach offers several advantages:

• System-wide protection: DNS-based blocking works across all apps and browsers on your device, not just within a specific browser.
• Improved performance: By blocking ad requests at the network level, DNS-based blocking can improve your device's performance and battery life.
• Reduced conflict: Because DNS-based blocking doesn't directly interfere with website scripts, it's less likely to cause ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS errors or other website functionality issues.

My Thoughts on the Future of Ad Blocking

The ongoing cat-and-mouse game between ad blockers and websites is likely to continue. Websites will continue to develop new ways to circumvent ad blockers, and ad blocker developers will continue to adapt their filter lists and techniques to block these new methods. This arms race will likely lead to more complex and sophisticated ad blocking solutions in the future.

I believe that the future of ad blocking lies in a combination of different approaches. Browser extensions will continue to be a popular option for users who want granular control over their ad blocking settings. However, DNS-based blocking will likely become increasingly popular as users seek a more comprehensive and unobtrusive solution.

Ultimately, the goal of ad blocking should be to provide users with a better browsing experience without sacrificing website functionality. This requires a careful balance between blocking intrusive ads and trackers and allowing legitimate website resources to function properly. It also requires ongoing communication and collaboration between ad blocker developers, website owners, and users.

It's a constant process of refinement and adaptation, and I'm confident that we can continue to improve the ad blocking experience for everyone.