The Complete Guide to Troubleshooting “RPC Server is Unavailable” Error on Windows 10 for Devs

As a developer, you may have encountered the “RPC Server is Unavailable” error message while working on Windows 10. This error can be frustrating and prevent you from accessing critical resources. In this guide, we’ll explore the root causes of this error and provide step-by-step instructions to help you resolve it.

Understanding the “RPC Server is Unavailable” Error Message

The “RPC Server is Unavailable” error is a common error message that can occur when you try to access a network resource or service on a remote computer. The error message indicates that the Remote Procedure Call (RPC) service on the remote computer is unavailable or cannot be reached.

The RPC service is a vital part of the Windows operating system that enables communication between various processes and services. When the RPC service is unavailable or not functioning correctly, it can cause various errors and issues.

What Causes the “RPC Server is Unavailable” Error?

Several factors can cause the “RPC Server is Unavailable” error, including:

How to Fix the “RPC Server is Unavailable” Error on Windows 10

Method 1: Check Firewall Settings

Firewall settings can block the communication between the RPC service and the remote computer. You can check the firewall settings by following these steps:

1. Click the Start button and type “firewall” in the search box.
2. Select “Windows Defender Firewall.”
3. Click “Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.”
4. Make sure that the checkbox next to “Remote Assistance” is selected.
5. Click “OK.”

Method 2: Restart RPC Service

If the RPC service is not running or has stopped functioning, you can restart it by following these steps:

1. Click the Start button and type “services” in the search box.
2. Select “Services.”
3. Scroll down and locate “Remote Procedure Call (RPC).”
4. Right-click on it and select “Restart.”

Method 3: Check DNS Settings

DNS server issues can prevent the RPC service from resolving the remote computer’s name. You can check the DNS settings by following these steps:

1. Click the Start button and type “cmd” in the search box.
2. Right-click on “Command Prompt” and select “Run as Administrator.”
3. Type “ipconfig /all” and press Enter.
4. Check the DNS settings and make sure they are correct.
5. If the DNS settings are incorrect, update them accordingly.

Method 4: Check Network Connectivity

Network connectivity issues can prevent the RPC service from communicating with the remote computer. You can check the network connectivity by following these steps:

1. Click the Start button and type “cmd” in the search box.
2. Right-click on “Command Prompt” and select “Run as Administrator.”
3. Type “ping [remote computer’s name or IP address]” and press Enter.
4. If the ping is successful, the network connectivity is not the issue.
5. If the ping is unsuccessful, troubleshoot the network connectivity issue accordingly.

FAQ about “RPC Server is Unavailable” Error on Windows 10

Q1: Can the “RPC Server is Unavailable” error be fixed without restarting the computer?

A: Yes, you can fix the “RPC Server is Unavailable” error without restarting the computer. You can follow the methods mentioned above to resolve the issue without restarting the computer.

Q2: Can antivirus software cause the “RPC Server is Unavailable” error?

A: Yes, antivirus software can cause the “RPC Server is Unavailable” error if it blocks the RPC service. You can check the antivirus settings and make sure that the RPC service is allowed.

Q3: How do I know if the RPC service is running?

A: You can check if the RPC service is running by following these steps:

1. Click the Start button and type “services” in the search box.
2. Select “Services.”
3. Scroll down and locate “Remote Procedure Call (RPC).”
4. Check the “Status” column to see if the service is running.

Q4: What can I do if none of the methods mentioned above work?

A: If none of the methods mentioned above work, you may need to seek professional help or contact Microsoft’s support team for further assistance.

Conclusion

The “RPC Server is Unavailable” error can be frustrating and prevent you from accessing critical resources. However, by following the methods mentioned in this guide, you can resolve the issue and get back to work quickly. Remember to check the firewall settings, restart the RPC service, check DNS settings, and troubleshoot network connectivity issues if necessary. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to consult the FAQ section or seek professional help.