I received the same msg ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED and was blocked from doing any searches.
(But I could listen to and watch Youtube videos!)
I don't know what your computer said, but I am running Google Chrome on windows 7 and above the message it said to:
1) Click on the Chrome Menu (the 2 bars in upper right hand corner of the Google Home page.
2) go to Settings > then "show advanced setting"
3) click Change proxy settings
4) click LAN Settings
5) UNclick "use a proxy server for your LAN"
Was still getting ERR_CONNECTION_REFUSED
Then closed all windows and programs
REBOOTED PC
Now, everything is fine! (REBOOTING (RESET) IS A NUISANCE, BUT IT HELPS)
I hope this info helps you.