How to Fix “Windows Can’t Communicate with Device or Resource” Error?

 It is quite common to find different error codes flashing on your Windows screen. One of the most common errors the Windows users see is “Windows can’t communicate with device or resource,” which prevents the users from accessing the internet and running Network Diagnostics. This error indicates that your desktop is unable to connect to the Domain Name System (DNS). There is nothing you can do without the internet, so it is crucial to fix this issue as soon as possible. Fortunately, fixing this error does not require you to visit a computer expert as you can resolve it on your own. 

Use our guide to resolve this error. Below we have mentioned six methods; you can use either of the following:

Check DNS and DHCP Clients

The basic and first step to fix this error is to ensure that the DNS and DHCP clients are running on your computer. To check this, go to the Start menu search bar, and type “Services.” Open the Services app to check the list of all the services running on your device. Check the services labeled as DNS and DHCP. Check if their ‘Status’ column shows ‘Running.’ If the status doesn’t show this, then you have to fix the error by enabling them. Give a double-click on each of the services to fix it. 

In case the service stops, click on Start. Then, from the ‘Startup type’ dropdown menu, select Automatic. Now click on Apply followed by OK to save the changes.

Reinstall Your Network Device

Outdated or inappropriate drivers can also be the reason behind “Windows can’t communicate with the device or resource” error showing on your screen. To fix this issue, you have to wipe the slate clean and uninstall your network device. Use the following steps to do so:

1. Open the Quick Link menu to open your network devices. 
2. From the list appearing on your screen, select Device Manager.
3. Then, click on Network Adapters.
4. Now, select your network device and click on Uninstall device. 
5. You can now give right-click on Network adapters and select Scan for Hardware Changes.

Once these steps are completed, Windows will automatically detect your “new” network device and start installing the default drivers of your device. You can, then, reboot your PC and check your connection.

Update Network Drivers

In Windows 10, network drivers are automatically updated, but it is better to update them manually, especially when any such problem occurs. Use the following steps to do so:

1. Press Windows + X keys together and navigate to Device Manager. 
2. Click on Network Adapters. Find your network device from the dropdown menu and give a right-click on it.
3. Then, select Update Driver and click on Search Automatically for Updated Driver Software. 

Now, your Windows PC will automatically detect your computer and the internet for updates. If it finds any new drivers, install them.

Clear Your DNS Cache

A corrupted DNS cache can also cause the error to show on your PC. To fix this, you’ll have to wipe your DNS cache. Fix it using these steps:

1. Start by typing “Command Prompt” in your Windows 10 search bar. 
2. From the search results, right-click on the Command Prompt. 
3. Select Run as Administrator and enter the following commands in series:

ipconfig /flushdns

ipconfig /registerdns

ipconfig /release

ipconfig /renew

This method will clear your DNS cache and reset corrupt configurations on your desktop. You can, then, hit the Enter key and close the Command Prompt.

Configure Your Adapter Settings

At times, the network adapter’s settings interfere with your connection and cause this error. You have to configure your settings to resolve this issue.

1. Start by opening the Control Panel. 
2. From the Network and Internet section, select View Network Status and Tasks.
3. Then, select Change Adapter Settings from the left-hand side menu.
4. Right-click on your connection, and choose Properties.
5. Remove the check from the box next to Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4). 
6. Then, double-click on the IPv4 option.
7. Fill the bubbles next to Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS Server address automatically. 
8. Click on OK to complete the process.

These methods and steps may take some time to resolve the error you are experiencing on your PC. These fixes aren’t too tricky; so, you can get back to work in no time.

Robert Hunt is a creative person who has been writing blogs and articles about cybersecurity. He writes about the latest updates regarding mcafee.com/activate and how it can improve the work experience of users. His articles have been published in many popular e-magazines, blogs and websites.

Source : How to Fix “Windows Can’t Communicate with Device or Resource” Error?