ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS: Is Your Ad Blocker To Blame?

I recently stumbled upon a fascinating online discussion regarding the dreaded "ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS" error, and how it might be connected to ad blocking software, specifically uBlock Origin. This got me thinking about the complex interactions between ad blockers, websites, and the underlying network protocols.

While ad blockers are invaluable tools for enhancing our browsing experience by eliminating intrusive ads and trackers, they can sometimes inadvertently cause unexpected issues. The "ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS" error is a prime example. This error typically indicates that a website is caught in a redirect loop, constantly bouncing the user between different URLs without ever reaching the intended destination. Let's delve into the potential reasons behind this phenomenon and explore possible solutions.

Understanding the Redirect Loop

Before we examine the role of ad blockers, it's crucial to understand what a redirect loop is and why it occurs. Websites use redirects for various purposes, such as:

• URL Changes: When a website moves to a new domain or restructures its URLs, redirects ensure that users accessing old links are seamlessly forwarded to the correct location.
• HTTPS Enforcement: Redirects are used to force users from the insecure HTTP protocol to the secure HTTPS protocol.
• Load Balancing: Redirects can distribute traffic across multiple servers to prevent overload and ensure optimal performance.
• A/B Testing: Redirects can direct different user groups to different versions of a page for testing purposes.

In a normal scenario, a redirect chain is short and efficient, quickly guiding the user to the desired page. However, when a configuration error or conflict arises, a redirect loop can occur. This means the user is endlessly redirected between two or more URLs, resulting in the "ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS" error. Browsers typically stop after a certain number of redirects to prevent infinite loops.

How Ad Blockers Can Contribute to Redirect Loops

So, how can an ad blocker like uBlock Origin contribute to this problem? There are several possible mechanisms:

1. Aggressive Blocking

Ad blockers operate by filtering network requests based on predefined rules and filter lists. These rules identify and block requests to known ad servers, tracking scripts, and other unwanted content. However, sometimes these rules can be overly aggressive and inadvertently block legitimate resources that are essential for a website's functionality. If a blocked resource is involved in the redirect process, it can disrupt the intended flow and trigger a redirect loop.

For instance, a website might use a third-party script for authentication or session management. If the ad blocker mistakenly identifies this script as a tracker and blocks it, the website might repeatedly redirect the user back to the login page, creating a loop.

2. Filter List Conflicts

Many ad blockers allow users to subscribe to multiple filter lists, each maintained by different communities and organizations. While this provides comprehensive protection, it can also lead to conflicts between different filter lists. One filter list might block a particular resource, while another list relies on that resource for proper functionality. This can create a situation where the ad blocker is simultaneously blocking and allowing the same resource, leading to unpredictable behavior and potential redirect loops.

3. Custom Rules

Advanced users often create custom rules to fine-tune their ad blocking experience. However, poorly written or outdated custom rules can also cause problems. A custom rule might inadvertently block a critical resource or interfere with the redirect process, resulting in the "ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS" error.

4. Browser Extensions Interactions

It's also important to consider potential interactions between different browser extensions. If you have multiple extensions installed that modify network requests or interfere with website behavior, they might conflict with each other and contribute to redirect loops. This is especially true if you have multiple ad blockers or privacy extensions installed.

Troubleshooting ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS

If you encounter the "ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS" error, here's a systematic approach to troubleshooting the issue:

1. Disable Ad Blocker

The first step is to temporarily disable your ad blocker to see if it's the culprit. If the error disappears after disabling the ad blocker, it's a strong indication that the ad blocker is indeed causing the problem.

2. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

Sometimes, outdated or corrupted cache and cookies can contribute to redirect loops. Clearing your browser's cache and cookies can often resolve the issue. To do this, go to your browser's settings and find the option to clear browsing data. Make sure to select both cache and cookies.

3. Check Filter Lists

If disabling the ad blocker resolves the issue, the next step is to identify which filter list is causing the problem. Most ad blockers allow you to disable individual filter lists. Try disabling them one by one to see if the error disappears. Once you've identified the problematic filter list, you can either unsubscribe from it or create an exception rule to allow the necessary resources.

4. Review Custom Rules

If you've created custom rules in your ad blocker, review them carefully to ensure they're not causing any conflicts or blocking essential resources. Remove any outdated or unnecessary rules.

5. Update Ad Blocker

Make sure you're using the latest version of your ad blocker. Developers often release updates to fix bugs and improve compatibility with websites. Updating your ad blocker can resolve issues related to filter list conflicts or aggressive blocking.

6. Disable Other Browser Extensions

If you have other browser extensions installed, try disabling them one by one to see if they're interfering with the ad blocker or contributing to the redirect loop.

7. Test in a Different Browser

To rule out browser-specific issues, try accessing the website in a different browser. If the error doesn't occur in another browser, it's likely that the problem is related to your browser's configuration or extensions.

8. Check Website Configuration

In some cases, the "ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS" error might be caused by a misconfiguration on the website itself. If you've tried all the above steps and the error persists, it's possible that the website's server is incorrectly configured. In this case, there's not much you can do except contact the website administrator and report the issue.

Specific Ad Blocker Settings

Here's what I think about specific ad blocker settings that can help mitigate redirect loop issues:

uBlock Origin

• Disable Specific Filters: uBlock Origin allows you to disable specific filters within a filter list. This can be useful for pinpointing the exact rule that's causing the problem.
• Create Exception Rules: You can create exception rules to allow specific resources that are being blocked by the ad blocker. This is useful for websites that require certain scripts or resources to function properly.
• Use the Logger: uBlock Origin's logger is a powerful tool for analyzing network requests and identifying which resources are being blocked. This can help you understand why a redirect loop is occurring.

AdGuard

• Whitelist Websites: AdGuard allows you to whitelist entire websites, which disables ad blocking for those sites. This can be useful for websites that you trust and want to support.
• Adjust Filtering Level: AdGuard offers different filtering levels, ranging from basic to aggressive. If you're experiencing redirect loops, try reducing the filtering level to see if it resolves the issue.
• Use the Assistant: AdGuard's assistant provides a convenient way to manage filtering rules and whitelist elements on a webpage.

DNS-Based Ad Blocking and Redirects

It's worth noting that DNS-based ad blocking solutions, like AdBlock Mobile, can also potentially contribute to redirect issues, although it's less common than with browser-based ad blockers. DNS-based blocking works by preventing your device from resolving the domain names of ad servers and trackers. If a website relies on a blocked domain for a redirect, it could lead to a loop.

If you suspect that your DNS-based ad blocking is causing redirect issues, you can temporarily disable it by switching back to your default DNS settings. If the error disappears, you can then try whitelisting the specific domain that's causing the problem within your DNS configuration.

My Recommendations

Based on what I've learned from this online discussion and my own experience, here are my recommendations for dealing with "ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS" errors:

• Start with the basics: Clear your browser cache and cookies, and disable your ad blocker to see if the issue resolves.
• Isolate the problem: If the ad blocker is the culprit, identify the specific filter list or custom rule that's causing the issue.
• Be selective with filter lists: Choose filter lists carefully and avoid subscribing to too many lists, as this can increase the risk of conflicts.
• Use exception rules wisely: Create exception rules only when necessary, and make sure they're specific enough to avoid unintended consequences.
• Keep your ad blocker updated: Regularly update your ad blocker to ensure you have the latest bug fixes and compatibility improvements.
• Consider website-specific settings: Many ad blockers allow you to customize settings for individual websites. Use this feature to fine-tune your ad blocking experience and avoid interfering with website functionality.

Final Thoughts

The "ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS" error can be frustrating, but it's often caused by easily fixable issues. By systematically troubleshooting the problem and understanding how ad blockers interact with websites, you can usually resolve the issue and continue enjoying a clean and efficient browsing experience. Remember to balance your desire for ad-free browsing with the need to ensure that websites function correctly.

While ad blockers are powerful tools, it's important to use them responsibly and be aware of their potential impact on website functionality. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above and carefully configuring your ad blocker settings, you can minimize the risk of encountering redirect loops and other unexpected issues.

And if you're looking for a reliable and customizable ad blocking solution for your mobile devices, consider exploring the features of AdBlock for Mobile. Our DNS-based approach provides comprehensive protection against ads and trackers, while minimizing the risk of interfering with website functionality. Check out our setup guides to get started!