How to Fix ‘There Was A Problem Communicating With Google Servers’

The “There was a problem communicating with Google servers.” usually means you can’t log into your Google account or use Google services. This error happens when your device can’t connect to Google’s servers, which can be due to several reasons. The most common reason is a weak or unavailable internet connection.

Other reasons include incorrect settings, outdated Google Play Services, or your device not being compatible. To fix this, you might need to clear app caches or reinstall Google apps.

Now that you know the causes, let’s discuss the solutions.

1. Disable 2-Step Authentication

When trying to access your Google account, turning on 2-Step Verification can sometimes make logging in harder. Temporarily turning it off can make logging in easier because it removes extra steps that might cause problems.

1. Open your browser and type google.com in the address bar. Press Enter.
2. Sign in to your Google account.
3. Click your profile picture in the top right corner.
4. Select Google Account.

5. Select Security.

6. Scroll down and select 2-Step Verification.

7. Sign in again.
8. Click Turn off.

2. Clear Cache

Clearing the cache for Google apps and services gives them a fresh start by removing any bad data. This can fix problems that stop them from connecting to Google’s servers.

1. Go to your Android phone and open Settings.
   
2. If your Google account is already added to your phone, select Account and remove your Google account from the list. Otherwise, skip this step.
3. Select Apps (or App Manager).
   
4. Locate Google Account Manager from the list of apps.
   Note: In some phones, you might have to swipe to the right to change the tabs. If that’s the case, make sure you are in the All tab. Some phones categorize apps by status, e.g., running, SD card, etc. So, Google Account Manager might not show up in the list of running apps if it isn’t running at the moment. Look in the list of all apps.
   
5. Once you open the Google Account Manager, select Clear Data.
6. Select Clear Cache.
   
7. Repeat the last 3 steps for Google Play Store, Google Play Services, and Google Services Framework. Note: If you can’t find the Google Services Framework, some phones don’t have it.

3. Reinstall Google Play Services

This issue can be caused by problems or bugs in Google Play Services. Reinstalling the app refreshes it, fixing any errors that may stop it from connecting to Google’s servers. This process not only helps restore the connection but also gives you the latest features and improvements.

1. Go to Settings.

2. Select Security.

3. Toggle on Unknown Sources. This allows you to install applications from unknown sources. Since APKMirror files are considered unknown sources, we need this option enabled to install the downloaded APK from that website.

4. Open Google (or any other browser on your phone).
5. Type apkmirror.com in the address bar and press Enter.
6. Click the Search icon and type Google Play Services.

7. Click the top result from the list. The top ones are the latest versions, and you want the latest version of Google Play Services.

8. Download the appropriate Google Play Services file for your specific Android version and phone. If you aren’t sure which version is suitable for your device, follow the instructions on the download page. There should be detailed instructions there.

9. Once the file is downloaded and installed, go to Settings and select Accounts. Add your Google Account.

4. Update Host Files (Only for Rooted Phones)

If your rooted device has trouble connecting to Google servers, updating the host files might help. This can fix wrong DNS settings and improve the connection. Correctly configured host files can make it easier to log in and use Google services.

1. Go to Settings.

2. Select Security.

3. Toggle on Unknown Sources. This allows you to install applications from unknown sources. Since APKMirror files are considered unknown sources, enabling this option is necessary to install the downloaded APK from that website.

4. Open Google (or any other browser on your phone).
5. Type apkmirror.com in the address bar and press Enter.
6. Click the Search icon and type ES File Explorer.
7. Click the top result from the list of results. The top ones are the latest versions, and you need the latest version of ES File Explorer.
8. Download the latest version of ES File Explorer and install it.
9. Open ES File Explorer.

10. Click the 3 bars in the top left corner.

11. Select Tools.

12. Toggle on Root Explorer and click Allow if the system asks for confirmation.

13. Click Local.
14. Select Device. You should see multiple folders on the right pane.

15. Select System and then open the etc folder.

16. Click the Hosts file and select Text from the dialogue asking how to open this file. Choose ES Note Editor when prompted.

17. Remove everything from the file and type 127.0.0.1 localhost.

18. Click the back button and ensure the changes are saved. You can click the hosts file again to check its content to be sure.

19. Go to Settings and select Accounts. Add your Google Account.