If you aren’t able to connect to the internet, then troubleshoot the problem using the Windows Network Diagnostics tool. But if the troubleshooting gets completed and then you get this error message that says Windows can’t Communicate With the Device or the Resource (primary DNS server).
Now, you don’t know how to solve Windows Can’t Communicate With the Device or Resource problem; then, you can fix the error with the solutions mentioned below. This network problem is most likely caused by the DNS (Domain Name Server) issues and network driver issues.
Encountering the error message “Windows Can’t Communicate With The Device or Resource” can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to connect to a network or access a website.
This error typically indicates a problem with your DNS (Domain Name System) configuration. In this article, we will explore the meaning of this error, identify common causes, and provide step-by-step solutions to help you resolve it and establish a reliable connection.
We’ll also discuss how to fix the primary DNS server and why DNS issues can disrupt your internet communication.
What Does “Windows Can’t Communicate With The Device or Resource” Mean?
This error message appears when your computer is unable to communicate with a specific device or resource on a network or the internet. It is often related to DNS resolution problems that prevent your system from translating domain names into IP addresses.
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Causes of “Windows Can’t Communicate With The Device or Resource” Error
Common Causes of the Error: This error can occur due to various reasons, including:
- DNS misconfiguration or server issues.
- Network connectivity problems.
- Incorrect network adapter settings.
- Firewall or security software blocking the connection.
- Malware or unwanted software affecting your DNS settings.
How to Fix Windows Can’t Communicate With the Device or Resource Error
Solution 1 — Restart Modem/Router
The internet router may be saved at the wrong configuration. Or any other settings, which can be its reason for not working correctly. Try restarting the router, but if it doesn’t work, you can try resetting the router (hard—reset) manually and check if it improves our situation.
1. Firstly, pick up the router and turn it back to see all the ports.
2. Now, find the button named “reset.” If you don’t find any button, then use a thin pin to press inwards towards the hole, which is called “reset.”
3. After resetting the router, connect your computer to the Wi—Fi network. Then launch steam and see if the problem is resolved.
Solution 2 — Update the Network Driver
The reason for Windows Can’t Communicate With the Device or Resource problem can be a faulty network driver. For resolving this problem, you can update your network driver.
Firstly, go to the manufacturer’s website for your network card, and search for the most recent correct driver. Make sure that the drivers that you choose are compatible with your windows version.
Solution 3 — Reset Internet Protocol
Corrupted Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) can also be the reason for receiving Windows Can’t Communicate With the Device or Resource error message. IP is one of the main components which is required by the operating system for connecting successfully to the internet.
So, we will try resetting the TCP/IP of your computer and see if this solves the problem.
It can be done by downloading a tool from Microsoft and then running it on the affected computer. For downloading the tool, you will need another device with an internet connection.
1. Firstly, go to Microsoft’s official website and download the utility.
2. Then, double click on the file downloaded and restart your computer after performing all the operations. After that, see if the Windows Can’t Communicate With the Device or Resource issue is resolved.
Solution 4 — Change the Settings
The IPv4 means Internet Protocol version 4, and it is a protocol for use on packet—switched link—layer networks. IPv4 also provides an addressing capability of approximately 4.3 billion addresses.
The Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) is a bit more advanced and also has better features compared to the IPv4. It also can provide various addresses. We are going to change the settings of both of them and see if this solves the issue.
This solution is mostly used for solving this problem.
1. First of all, apply the shortcut “Windows + R.” Then type “Control Panel” in the search box.
2. After opening the control panel, click on the “Network and Internet” option. Then, find “Network and Sharing Center” and then click on it.
3. Now, you will see the network to which you are connected. Tap on the network, which is present in front of the connections.
4. Then click on the Properties, which is present at the bottom – left corner of the screen.
5. Locate Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and then click on it. Tick on the options “Obtain DNS server address automatically” and “Obtain an IP address automatically.” Finally, press OK to save the changes.
6. Repeat the same procedure with Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6).
7. At last, check that the Windows Can’t Communicate With the Device or Resource issue is resolved or not.
Solution 5 — Use the Command Prompt
It may be the case that IP and DNS configuration are either corrupt or not configured as expected. If so, we can try resetting these settings and see if this solves the problem.
1. First of all, apply the shortcut “Windows + R.” After that, “Command Prompt” in the search box.
2. Then, right—click on the first result and tap on “Run as administrator.”
3. Once the command prompt gets opened, execute the commands given below.
ipconfig /flushdns
ipconfig /registerdns
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
4. At last, close the command prompt after executing the above commands and reboot your computer.
Furthermore, check that the Windows Can’t Communicate With the Device or Resource issue is resolved or not.
How to Fix “Windows Can’t Communicate With The Device or Resource”
Solutions to Resolve the Error:
- Restart your modem and router to refresh the network connection.
- Flush the DNS cache on your computer to clear outdated or corrupted entries.
- Check and reset your network adapter settings, ensuring they are set to obtain DNS server addresses automatically.
- Disable any firewall or security software temporarily to see if they are blocking the connection.
- Scan your system for malware using reputable antivirus software.
- Manually set your DNS server addresses to reliable and publicly available options like Google DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1).
- Reset the Winsock catalog and TCP/IP stack to repair network-related issues.
Why Is My DNS Server Unable to Communicate?
DNS Server Issues:
- DNS servers may experience problems due to heavy traffic, maintenance, or technical issues.
- Misconfigurations or errors on the DNS server’s side can affect communication.
- The DNS server you are trying to reach may be temporarily down.
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The End
Please note that after you manually reset the router, it won’t have any SSID (password), and the name of the WiFi will be set as default. Any internet settings which your internet provider has set on it will be removed.
Do not perform this method if you don’t know those settings. All the devices which were connected are also going to disconnect. I hope this guide proves useful to you.
Experiencing the “Windows Can’t Communicate With The Device or Resource” error can be frustrating, but it is usually resolvable with the right troubleshooting steps.
By identifying and addressing the underlying causes, such as DNS misconfigurations or network issues, you can reestablish a stable and reliable connection to the device or resource in question.
Whether it’s a DNS cache flush, network adapter settings check, or using alternative DNS servers, these solutions can help you overcome this error and enjoy uninterrupted internet communication.
Understanding why DNS server issues can disrupt communication is essential for both troubleshooting and maintaining a healthy network connection.