Not Able to Load Certain Websites on Home Internet Connection, Fine on Mobile Data - DNS?

Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 10:25

Looking for some advice on troubleshooting a website specific issue related to my internet connection.

Specifically it is a medication website that is accessed via a NSW Health portal login (I'm not sure if the government website factor is relevant). The website works flawlessly when I am connected to my mobile via a personal hotspot, however when I connect to my home internet setup, it persistently fails to load, with the address bar just refreshing infinitely. The same happens with a similar NSW health portal website.

On the rare occasions it does load, it is almost a text only version of the site.

Based on some research online, DNS seemed to be potentially the issue. I flushed the DNS on the mac and the site would work briefly, however the problem reappears.
I changed the DNS to manual via Google and Cloudflare DNS servers but neither fixed the problem. I deleted cookies, tried safari and chrome.

Are there any other settings I should consider adjusting on the router to see if I can get this to work? I don't know why it works flawlessly when I connect to my phone's mobile hotspot to use internet, but not on my regular wifi connection. Would appreciate any tips, thanks!

Internet

Comments

  • skid on 16/05/2025 - 10:37

    address bar just refreshing

    Assuming that the browser isn't being redirected, looks to be a firewall or similar reason on the router where the browser cannot connect to the site.

    If the browser is being redirected, might be something on the portal side of things. Open up the browsers console log (press F12) and see if there is something being repeated there or in the network connections tab.

    • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 10:49

      Thanks, should have specified it is Mac OSx so I'm not sure if the console log applies there.
      THe odd thing is that it always worked on our internet and browser, then randomly started doing this without changing anything in my DNS, or adding a firewall of any kind.

      • skid on 16/05/2025 - 11:04
        +1

        The console is available on Mac too. In Chrome, press Cmd + Option + J. In Safari, follow this. It could give a clue as to what is happening.

      • Dr Phil on 18/05/2025 - 11:00
        -2

        The obvious things to try are:
        1) try different browsers to see if you are having the same issue.
        2) Clear the browser cache
        3) try a different router on standard ISP settings
        4) try Google DNS settings instead of default ISP settings
        5) try a different computer

    • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 20:52

      @skid
      Thanks for this. The console comes up with this:

      Seems to be plenty of errors! I will google through them…

      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/librarie… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Error] Did not parse stylesheet at 'https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/styles/amh-desktop-home.css?v=1736906282' because non CSS MIME types are not allowed in strict mode.
      [Error] Did not parse stylesheet at 'https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/styles/base.css?v=1736906282' because non CSS MIME types are not allowed in strict mode.
      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/forms.js… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/modules/… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/modules/… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/modules/… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/modules/… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/modules/… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/plugins/… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/plugins/… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/plugins/… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Warning] Source Map "https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/styles/content.css.map" has SyntaxError: JSON Parse error: Unrecognized token '<'
      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/plugins/… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/plugins/… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/plugins/… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/plugins/… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/plugins/… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/modules/… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Error] Refused to execute https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/scripts/modules/… as script because "X-Content-Type-Options: nosniff" was given and its Content-Type is not a script MIME type.
      [Error] Did not parse stylesheet at 'https://amhonline.amh.net.au.acs.hcn.com.au/styles/print.css?v=1736906282' because non CSS MIME types are not allowed in strict mode.

      • skid on 17/05/2025 - 10:24

        Clear the console log and then check if the same error appears when connected to mobile data.

        If the error doesn't appear, check if you have the Parental content/Adult filter control enabled in the router.

        If it does appear, the error is a red herring, check the network tab of the console browser.

      • simplystu on 17/05/2025 - 10:32

        just as a test - to try to work out where the issues are … google the following.
        "macos + safari + strict mode" … have a read and try disabling lockdown mode - then try website … you can always turn it back on if want.

        from reading the above code - that seems to be the source of those errors.

        but why happening across multiple browsers + using mobile hotspot fixes it … has got me stumped.
        I'm not familiar with macOS … but any antivirus/firewall programs installed?

        • Hoju on 17/05/2025 - 12:02

          Thanks. No antivirus or anything, but it must be router or isp side as it happens on my phone and other devices using the same wifi.

          • simplystu on 17/05/2025 - 12:05

            @Hoju: I was just in middle of writing - when you replied …

            just to add … akin to @skid above …

            something/somewhere within your setup … is being over-zealous in terms of security protocols.
            and flagging minor security issues as red flags (hence similar to "strict" mode).

            think @skid may be onto it - with parental controls/settings within router.

            I highly doubt it is ISP side of things (going from the code you posted) … as ISP's won't block code with wrong markup.

            • Hoju on 17/05/2025 - 12:23

              @simplystu: Interesting thanks.

              There are no parental controls set but I feel like the issue may have arisen with an update of the router firmware and software.

              I’m going to try and create a new parental controls profile specifically saying no restrictions and see what happens

            • Hoju on 17/05/2025 - 17:01

              @simplystu: Nuts, parental controls option hits a dead end… no improvement. Essentially there was no parental control there, but I created one with no restrictions for my device and problem remains, totally sporadic, works at times but usually text only…

              Java console shows no errors when loading via mobile data connection

              Going to try the ISP and an IP change enquiry.

              • simplystu on 17/05/2025 - 17:23

                @Hoju: "problem remains, totally sporadic, works at times but usually text only…"

                about only other thing I can think of == http/https issues.
                otherwise I'm completely out of ideas - and this coming from an IT related (networking/server orientated person).

                • Hoju on 17/05/2025 - 17:35

                  @simplystu: Yeh I'm totally baffled. Thanks for the input though.

                  It's odd that both the handbook and guidelines websites don't work.
                  Both use the same login credentials, the login page works fine but then the glitching begins…
                  But then resolves on mobile so don't see how it would be related.

  • o53djz7qTPY4der on 16/05/2025 - 10:54
    +1

    Change the DNS on the router rather than just on Mac OS.

    • spackbace on 16/05/2025 - 11:03
      +1

      This, maybe your router has a DNS setup for ad blocking or something?

    • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 11:06

      That's where I did it, changed it from Auto to manual within the router settings and tried the google and cloudflare dns servers without luck

  • BOGOF on 16/05/2025 - 11:06
    +1

    Try incognito mode?

    • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 11:12

      No luck sadly. I think it is wifi / NBN specific because of it working normally on my mobile personal hotspot.

      I was wondering if an ISP (Tangerine) setting might have done something

      • Twix on 16/05/2025 - 11:24

        Do you have FTTP?

        • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 11:32

          No, we're on HFC

          • Twix on 16/05/2025 - 11:35

            @Hoju: Ok never mind. I was going to say get Launtel setup on port-2 to see if Tangerine was the problem.

  • csimpson on 16/05/2025 - 11:14

    Do you have VPN software installed and running? Or antivirus software that has a firewall?

    • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 11:20

      Thanks. Neither on my device, however I wonder if the TP Link Deco router might have something inbuilt that it added during an update

  • Protractor on 16/05/2025 - 11:19
    +1

    Sounds like a browser issue or browser setting??

    • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 11:20
      +1

      Except it works fine when the only change I make is to use my mobile hotspot instead of NBN for the device internet connection

  • tenpercent on 16/05/2025 - 11:25
    +1

    NSW Health portal login

    Sounds like a query for NSW Health's IT department.

    • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 11:36
      +1

      Possibly, but based on past experience they are totally useless.

      • Protractor on 16/05/2025 - 13:15

        CC the minister responsible in an email to NSW Health IT.. If it's urgent cc A Current Affair.
        If it's an emergency cc the Premier as well.

  • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 11:36

    This person having a similar issue but for gaming.

    https://www.reddit.com/r/TpLink/comments/rdajo6/does_the_dec…

    Something to do with AP mode might be at play?

    • Twix on 16/05/2025 - 11:38

      Is the Deco plugged into the nbn NTD box?

      • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 11:40

        Yes but it is a mesh system, and I'm connected to one of the outlying units. Might see if it has the same problem with the base unit when home?

        • Twix on 16/05/2025 - 11:55

          Your Deco is setup as a wireless router and it's not setup as standalone APs.

          It shouldn't make a difference which Deco you're connected to for website access.

  • jv on 16/05/2025 - 12:09
    +1

    Have you tried both wifi and ethernet on your home network?

    • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 12:19

      Ooh very good question. I don't even know if I have a way of connecting to ethernet, would need an adapter but worth a look

      • jv on 16/05/2025 - 12:35

        a laptop with an ethernet port?

        i had an issue ages ago where issues were only through wifi… can't remember what the cause was though…

  • Elppa8 on 16/05/2025 - 12:23

    Are you using hide my IP or private relay or VPN.

    • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 12:30

      No nothing at all, works seamlessly via mobile hotspot too so must be somethign Wifi/ISP related

  • ode1online on 16/05/2025 - 12:48
    +1

    A friend of mine is having similar issues with Optus (cannot connect to Twitch)

    Connected Via Wi-Fi it doesn't work

    Using her Optus Mobile as a Hotspot it works fine

    Using a VPN it works fine, and that's how she is using it for now

    While I was doing my research, I did see Optus had a feature called "Optus Wi-Fi Secure "
    There were suggestions that this was causing the issue and needed to be turned of via the Optus app and that may fix the issue but I am unsure if they tried that as the VPN got them out of trouble.

    • o53djz7qTPY4der on 16/05/2025 - 13:15
      +2

      Based on the comments so far, I suspect it's this or some ISP nonsense similar to this.

      I reckon the modem/router has some faux VPN in-built to keep you "safe" whilst browsing.

  • Josh Tang 2047 on 16/05/2025 - 13:52

    Try using DoH / Secure DNS, and also force it to always use secure connections.

    e.g. Example settings

    This won't fix the underlying problem which could be at the router or the ISP.

    You might also want to turn on DoH for your whole system but I am unfamiliar with Apple products. I have only provided a sample picture of what I am doing on Windows.

    Ultimately you want to fix the underlying problem because there could be some underlying attack occurring which could ultimately stop your system from updating. This happened to a law firm I was working at and even though my own personal BYOD was updating due to my customisations (see link above and 2nd picture), the corporate system wasn't…

    • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 14:28

      Thanks I'll try that, even if I just use it on a separate browser that I only use for those sites, it would be worth it, meanwhile trying an ethernet connection to differentiate from an ISP vs Router issue

      • spackbace on 16/05/2025 - 16:16
        +2

        Or connect to your wifi from your phone, since you know your phone loads it on data

        • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 19:36

          Yeh doesn’t work on phone when connected to wifi

  • melpen on 16/05/2025 - 15:13

    Tangerine is using CGNAT for their NBN user base. It’s possible that someone triggered offending traffic, resulting in the shared public IP being blocked. Since CGNAT (Carrier-Grade Network Address Translation) means multiple users share the same public IP, this could affect others on the same network. You might want to bring this up with your ISP and ask them to investigate. You can visit a site like https://www.whatismyip.com/ to check your current public IP address. Then, report that IP to Tangerine so they can coordinate with the NSW Health Department to determine whether the block is occurring on their end.

    • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 15:26

      Thank you. Would that present as per my symptoms - ie. sometimes it works fine/in a limited sense, and the DNS flushing seemed to have some effect. But I will investigate this too, thanks

      • Twix on 16/05/2025 - 15:42

        It might be an IP address problem. You could call up Tangerine and ask them to turn off CG-NAT.

    • Hoju on 25/05/2025 - 08:29
      +1

      @melpen looks like you might have cracked it!

  • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 18:34

    This is the page when trying to access on my mobile via the wifi

    https://imgur.com/a/agQnktt

    Loads as per the laptop but pretty much text only

  • AndyC1 on 16/05/2025 - 20:31

    Try different Web browsers, try in cognito mode. Try a different PC/Laptop.

    If you have VPN on, try if off.

    Try ping & curl to see if you have connectivity to the site.

    NSW web sites are an internal mess as the department you are hitting may not own the site… And then the problem is that if there is an issue then who has to fix it… 3 or 4 months latter it may be fixed and no one knows why or it may not be.

    • Hoju on 16/05/2025 - 21:13

      Thanks. Done all the above, Same issue on all other devices, all browsers including incognito, connected to the same wifi.

      Funnily enough it only works if I use a vpn eg via a free Firefox extension. The vPN is a USA location and it all loads fine.

      Turn off the vpn and it stops working…

      Does that suggest an IP address issue? Sounds like it does…
      Might try turning the NBN modem off for a while and seeing if I can get a new IP allocated, although if I go to different What is my IP sites, each one tells me a different number so not sure what's going on there…

      • ode1online on 16/05/2025 - 22:29

        It certainly seems that the issue is because of your ISP so I'd be taking it up with them. It seems that some sites are being blocked or filtered. Let them know that Using the VPN is a work around.
        Who was your ISP?

        • Hoju on 17/05/2025 - 09:11

          Interesting, I didn’t think they’d bother with this kind of thing. I’m with tangerine.

          Got a new IP after leaving nbn box off overnight but issue persists.

  • JA6 on 17/05/2025 - 10:32
    +2

    I had a website not load and had to call my ISP. After they changed the ip address it worked.

    • Hoju on 17/05/2025 - 17:02

      Going to try this, seems all else has failed. thanks

  • StormOfRazors on 18/05/2025 - 10:59

    Agree that that using third party custom DNS provider and flushing DNS cache were good first steps, though recommending setting DNS at the router level if at all possible rather than client level.

    I had a corporate laptop that had issues accessing work network via Aways on VPN when using home network but worked when connected to a mobile hotspot, in this case plugging the laptop in via ethernet port to router rather than wifi resolved the issue, indicating it was an issue with my laptops WiFi card. (The message here i guess is try via physical connection first to see if it works to eliminate if its an issue with your wifi or computers network card).

    Another idea, is the router may have a firewall setting in high or strict mode and you can move this one step down (e.g. to Medium) and see if this helps. For Telstra routers this is under Network - Firewall.

    Finally if your home internet is 4G/5G home internet you could also try changing the PDP type to Ipv4 or Ipv4/v6 if you're wanting to rule out Ipv6 compatibility issues with that site.

  • Protractor on 18/05/2025 - 11:12

    System Restore?

  • Hoju on 25/05/2025 - 08:16
    +3

    An update for everyone, thank you for the input and ideas.
    Finally heard back from Tangerine:

    "Tangerine: Hi, CGNAT has been disabled which might be causing the issue and we've changed it into Sticky Dynamic IP, you may restart the NBN box and Router before testing the internet again."

    The websites now all work without issue. Mystery solved! Huzzah for the shopkeep.

    (ETA, I don't know what the above means but glad it works)

    • Pidapipo on 30/05/2025 - 12:04
      +2

      I work for an unrelated tech company and this is the reason why we don't block IP addresses that were use for nefarious purposes. The attacker would just move on to a new one, and whoever is unlucky enough to share the same IP (or in rare cases, being assigned that IP addresses later on) would just face the consequence.

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