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6 Ways to Fix Gmail’s Account Temporarily Unavailable Error
Note that updating your browser often does the trick
5 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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In a world where web clients are replacing downloadable desktop clients more and more, it is easy to understand why email services have migrated down the same path.
Such would be the case with Google’s very own Gmail, a web email client that is regarded as one of the best in the world.
Of course, Gmail isn’t perfect, and things don’t always go smoothly when using it. For example, our readers reported that they are getting an error message when they try logging into their Gmail account.
The message they received wasTemporary error() Numerical code: 2.
Why is my Gmail temporarily unavailable 500?
The Gmail error code 500 is a response from the server that something has gone wrong.
It’s because the server couldn’t get some resources from the browser or the cache or cookies prevented proper communication between the browser and the server.
However, there are a few iterations of this error that we need to go through:
This problem is quite common, and that is why we’ve put together this small step-by-step guide that will show you exactly what you need to do in order to avoid any similar problems.
How do I fix the Gmail Temporary error?
1. Update your browser
We explained how to update Chrome since it’s the most popular one. However, updating any other browser is done the same, by reaching theirAboutsection.
Since Gmail is a web client, it is always available to you with the latest version, unlike desktop clients that update manually.
Because of this, you must also keep your browser constantly updated for it to work properly. As such, check your browser’s version and, if required, update your browser to the latest version.
2. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies
Cookies and cached data have a nasty habit of interfering with web services if you let them pile up.
Because of this, it is recommended that you periodically clear your browser cache and cookies and then test after signing in.
Again, we showed you how to clear the cache, browsing data, and cookies from Chrome but the process is very similar in all the major browsers.
3. Disable extensions and add-ons
Since most add-ons and extensions are created by third parties that have no connection to Gmail, there is no way of telling how they may interfere with its functioning properly.
Thus, try disabling all browser extensions, scripts, and add-ons and start the browser again.
The solution above is obviously tailored to Chrome, but the process of disabling the extensions or add-ons is very similar in all major browsers.
4. Disable your antivirus and Firewall
Since antivirus and firewall tools act by limiting the amount of data that comes and goes to and from your PC, it shouldn’t surprise you if it hinders Gmail’s functionality.
Temporarily disable your virus checker along with any of its add-ons or extensions that interfere with your access to the web or attempt to check your email. Be sure to turn it back on immediately afterward.
The solution shows you how to deal with the Windows Defender Firewall. If you have a third-party antivirus and firewall, you will need to turn the firewall off from the antivirus settings.
5. Use Incognito or Guest mode
One very bizarre workaround is the use of Incognito and Guest mode. This is because these modes are activated without any scripts, extensions, and add-ons by default.
As such, try logging into Gmail through such a session. We have shown you how to do that in Chrome, but the procedure is similar in other browsers with this feature.
6. Use another browser
If you cannot figure out why you can’t connect to Gmail, then maybe the problem is the browser itself.
Test using another supported, updated browser. We always recommendOpera Onebecause it’s so much more stable and reliable than Chrome.
Other advantages include pre-installed native apps for WhatsApp, Instagram, Telegram, and Facebook Messenger.
The cherry on top is that Opera One even comes with a free VPN service with unlimited usage.
For a complete guide ongood browsers for using email clients, check out our in-depth article.
What can I do if Gmail’s servers are unreachable?
This error usually goes away quickly, so try signing in again in a few minutes. Even though you can’t sign in for the moment, your messages and personal information are still safe.
If the problem still isn’t fixed, check theG Suite Status Dashboardto check if there’s a known issue happening on Gmail.
By following these steps, you should be able to get past any Temporary errors you may encounter when dealing with Gmail.
Which one of these methods helped you fix this issue? Let us know by leaving us a message in the comments section below.
More about the topics:Browser errors,Gmail issues
Teodor Nechita
Eager to help those in need, Teodor writes articles daily on subjects regarding Windows, Xbox, and all things tech-related.
When not working, you may usually find him either at the gym or taking a stroll in the park, trying to find inspiration for the next articles he may write.
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