If you’ve encountered Error 495 when trying to download or update apps from the Google Play Store, you’re not alone. This frustrating error can prevent you from accessing new apps or keeping your existing ones up-to-date. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the causes of Error 495 and provide step-by-step solutions to get your Google Play Store working smoothly again.
Understanding Error 495
Error 495 is a common issue that Android users face when attempting to download or update apps via Wi-Fi. Interestingly, the error often doesn’t occur when using cellular data, which points to a network-related problem.
The error typically manifests as:
- Failed app downloads or updates
- An error message stating “Error 495” or “Error processing purchase”
- The download starting but then failing to complete
This error occurs due to a timeout in the connection between your device and Google Play servers. The unstable connection prevents your device from maintaining the necessary link for completing app downloads or updates.
Root Causes of Error 495
Several factors can contribute to the occurrence of Error 495:
- Wi-Fi Connectivity Issues: A weak or unstable Wi-Fi connection is often the primary culprit. If your network can’t maintain a steady connection during the download process, it can trigger Error 495.
- Google Play Store Cache and Data Corruption: Over time, the cache and data stored by the Google Play Store can become corrupted, leading to various errors, including 495.
- Google Account Synchronization Problems: Issues with syncing your Google account can interfere with the Play Store’s functionality, resulting in Error 495.
- Server Timeouts: Sometimes, the connection to Google Play servers may time out, especially if there are server-side issues or high traffic.
For a detailed explanation of Error 495 and its causes, you can check out this comprehensive guide on Error Code 495.
Quick Fixes for Error 495
Before diving into more complex solutions, try these quick fixes:
- Switch to Mobile Data: Since Error 495 often doesn’t occur on cellular networks, switching to mobile data can be a quick workaround.
- Restart Your Device: A simple restart can refresh your system and network connections, potentially resolving the error.
- Check Wi-Fi Connection: Ensure your Wi-Fi connection is stable and strong. Try connecting to a different Wi-Fi network if possible.
Step-by-Step Solutions
If the quick fixes don’t work, try these more comprehensive solutions:
Clear Cache and Data
- Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > See all apps
- Find and tap on Google Play Store
- Tap Storage & cache
- Tap “Clear cache” and then “Clear storage“
- Repeat this process for Google Play Services
Clearing cache and data removes any corrupted files that may be causing the error. This method is also effective for resolving Google Play error checking for updates issues.
Reset App Preferences
- Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > See all apps
- Tap the three-dot menu and select “Reset app preferences“
- Confirm by tapping “Reset apps“
This action resets all app preferences without deleting any app data, potentially resolving Error 495.
Remove and Re-add Google Account
- Go to Settings > Accounts
- Tap on your Google account
- Tap “Remove account“
- Restart your device
- Go back to Settings > Accounts > Add account
- Re-add your Google account
Removing and re-adding your account can refresh account settings and resolve synchronization issues.
Use a VPN
- Download a reputable VPN app from the Play Store
- Install and set up the VPN
- Connect to a server (preferably in the US)
- Try downloading apps again
Using a VPN can bypass regional restrictions that might be causing Error 495.
Wipe Cache Partition
- Turn off your device
- Press and hold the Volume Down and Power buttons simultaneously until the device turns on
- Use volume buttons to navigate to “Recovery mode” and press the Power button to select
- When you see the Android mascot, hold Power and press Volume Up once
- Use volume buttons to navigate to “Wipe cache partition” and select with the Power button
- Confirm and wait for the process to complete
- Select “Reboot system now“
Wiping the cache partition clears system-level cache, which can resolve persistent errors.
Preventing Error 495
To minimize the chances of encountering Error 495 in the future:
- Keep your device’s operating system and apps updated
- Maintain a stable and strong internet connection
- Regularly clear app caches, especially for Google Play Store and Services
- Avoid using VPNs or proxy services when downloading from Google Play Store unless necessary
If you’re experiencing issues with Google Play Store downloads being stuck in a pending state, check out this guide on fixing Google Play Store download pending issues.
When to Seek Further Help
If you’ve tried all the above solutions and still encounter Error 495, it might be time to:
- Contact your internet service provider to check for any network issues
- Reach out to Google Play Support for personalized assistance
- Consider factory resetting your device as a last resort (be sure to backup your data first)
If you’re experiencing persistent issues with Google Play Services, you might want to read this article on how to fix Google Play Services keeps stopping.
Key Takeaways
- Error 495 is primarily a network-related issue affecting app downloads and updates over Wi-Fi
- Common causes include unstable Wi-Fi, corrupted app data, and account synchronization problems
- Solutions range from simple restarts to more advanced steps like wiping the cache partition
- Regular maintenance and updates can help prevent Error 495 from occurring
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why does Error 495 occur on Wi-Fi but not on mobile data? Error 495 is often related to how your device connects to Google’s servers over Wi-Fi. Mobile data connections typically use different routing, which can bypass the issue.
- Will clearing Google Play Store data delete my apps? No, clearing Google Play Store data will not delete your installed apps. It only removes temporary files and settings related to the Play Store app itself.
- How often should I clear my app caches to prevent errors like 495? While there’s no set rule, clearing app caches every few months or when you notice performance issues can be beneficial.
- Can a factory reset fix Error 495 permanently? A factory reset can resolve persistent software issues, including Error 495. However, it should be considered a last resort due to data loss.
- Is Error 495 a sign of a virus or malware? Generally, no. Error 495 is typically a network or software issue, not a security problem. However, always ensure your device has up-to-date security measures.
For more information on other common Google Play errors and their solutions, you might find these resources helpful:
- How to Fix Google Play Error 505
- Solve Error 927 of Google Play
- How to Fix Google Play Services Has Stopped
By following this guide, you should be able to resolve Google Play Error 495 and get back to downloading and updating your apps smoothly. Remember, if problems persist, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance.
