Quick Summary
The error "Error retrieving information from server. [DF-DFERH-01]" on Android indicates a problem communicating with Google's servers, specifically when accessing the Google Play Store. This communication failure prevents the Play Store from downloading new apps or updating existing ones.
Common Causes
- Network Connectivity Issues: A weak or unstable internet connection can disrupt the communication between your device and Google's servers. This includes issues with Wi-Fi or mobile data.
- Google Account Synchronization Problems: Issues with your Google account's synchronization settings can prevent the Play Store from accessing the necessary information. This can stem from password changes, account errors, or issues with Google's servers.
- Play Store Cache and Data Corruption: Corrupted or excessive cached data within the Google Play Store app can cause errors. This data can interfere with the app's ability to function correctly.
- Play Store App Issues: An outdated or faulty version of the Google Play Store app itself may be the source of the error. This includes conflicts with the Android OS, incomplete updates or issues with device compatibility.
- Date and Time Settings: Incorrect Date and Time settings on your device can cause synchronization issues with Google servers as the the certificates cannot be validated if the time does not match.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Check Your Internet Connection
Step 1: Verify that your device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network or has a strong mobile data connection.
Step 2: Test your internet connection by opening a web browser and visiting a website. If the website loads slowly or not at all, troubleshoot your internet connection.
Step 3: Try switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data to see if the error persists on only one network.
Method 2: Clear Google Play Store Cache and Data
Step 1: Open your device's Settings app.
Step 2: Tap Apps or Applications (the exact wording may vary depending on your device).
Step 3: Find and tap Google Play Store in the list of apps.
Step 4: Tap Storage.
Step 5: Tap Clear Cache and then Clear Data. Be aware that clearing data will reset the app to its default state.
Method 3: Clear Google Play Services Cache and Data
Step 1: Open your device's Settings app.
Step 2: Tap Apps or Applications.
Step 3: Find and tap Google Play Services in the list of apps.
Step 4: Tap Storage.
Step 5: Tap Clear Cache and then Manage Space followed by Clear All Data.
Method 4: Re-add Your Google Account
Step 1: Open your device's Settings app.
Step 2: Tap Accounts or Users & accounts.
Step 3: Select your Google account.
Step 4: Tap Remove account. Follow the on-screen instructions to remove the account.
Step 5: Restart your device.
Step 6: Open your device's Settings app.
Step 7: Tap Accounts or Users & accounts.
Step 8: Tap Add account and follow the on-screen instructions to re-add your Google account.
Method 5: Update Date and Time
Step 1: Open your device's Settings app.
Step 2: Tap General management or System.
Step 3: Tap Date and time.
Step 4: Enable Automatic date and time. Alternatively, manually set the correct date and time.