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In this article we’ll explain what the RPC server is and explore how to fix the “RPC server is unavailable” error using various methods. Without further ado, let’s dive right in.
What Is the RPC Server
The Remote Procedure Call (RPC) server is a protocol that enables communication between programs or processes on different systems in a network. It allows a program to cause a procedure (subroutine) to execute in another address space, typically on a remote server.
RPC is used for building distributed client-server applications, where a client can request services or perform operations on a remote server.
So, what does “The RPC server is unavailable” mean? And what may trigger “The RPC server is unavailable” in Windows 10? Let’s figure it out.
Common causes of the error
“The RPC server is unavailable” is an error message indicating that the RPC server is not accessible or responsive. This error typically signifies a breakdown in communication between the client and the server due to various reasons.
In order for the RPC to properly function, certain services should be running smoothly in the background. If the error shows up, it is likely that some of the RPC-related services may be malfunctioning. In some cases, this problem may be a result of corrupted registry files.
That said, here are some of the common causes of “The RPC server is unavailable” error:
- Malfunctioning RPC services,
- Firewall blocking the RPC,
- Disabled IPv6 or the File and Printer Sharing component,
- DNS cache-related issues,
- Startup settings preventing the RPC service from loading,
- Registry files issues.
Now that we know what may cause the error, let’s explore the ways to fix it.
How to Fix “The RPC Server Is Unavailable” in Windows 10
Restart the RPC Server
In most cases, a simple restart of the RPC server can resolve the error. Follow these steps to do it:
- Locate the “Remote Procedure Call (RPC)” service in the Services window.
- Right-click on “Remote Procedure Call (RPC),” then click “Restart” from the menu.
- Ensure that the services dependent on RPC, such as “DCOM Server Process Launcher” and “RPC Endpoint Mapper,” are also running and their Startup type is set to “Automatic.” You can access the properties by double clicking the service.
- If needed, you can restart dependent services by following the same steps.
Check your firewall configuration
In some cases, your firewall may be blocking the traffic requested by RPC, resulting in “The RPC server is unavailable” error. In this case, try changing the configuration of the firewall to check if it is preventing the RPC from connecting to the network.
If you’re using a third-party firewall, follow the instructions from your provider. Here are the instructions for the built-in Windows Firewall:
- On your keyboard, press Windows key + R.
- Inside the Run dialog, type “control,” then hit Enter.
- Click System and Security.
- Under the Windows Defender Firewall section, click “Allow an app through Windows Firewall.”
- Look for “Remote Assistance” and make sure that all boxes are ticked.
Also read: How to Check Firewall Settings in Windows 10 PC
To strengthen your protection against malware, we recommend using a reputable tool like Auslogics Anti-Malware. It is a powerful solution that is designed to work alongside your main antivirus, detecting and safely removing spyware and viruses.
Also read: Auslogics Anti-Malware: Features and Reviews
Enable IPv6 and the File and Printer Sharing component
You could also be seeing “The RPC server is unavailable” error because of a network connection interruption. Specifically, you need to check if IPv6 and the File and Printer Sharing component are enabled. You can enable them by following these steps:
- On your keyboard, press Windows key + R and type “ncpa.cpl,” then hit Enter. This should show you all the network connections available.
- Right-click the network you’re using, then click Properties.
- Find the “File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks” and “Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)” options.
- Make sure that the box beside each of them is ticked.
Update the network adapter driver
In case of network issues, there is also a possibility that your network adapter driver may be outdated or even missing. We recommend using Auslogics Driver Updater that will automatically scan your system for all outdated and missing drivers and install the latest, manufacturer-recommended ones.
Also read: Auslogics Driver Updater: Update Your Drivers in One Click
Flush the DNS cache
If you’re still experiencing “The RPC server is unavailable” in Windows 10, chances are that your DNS cache prevents the RPC from running properly. Follow these steps to flush the DNS cache:
- Type “Command Prompt” in the taskbar search box and select “Run as administrator.”
- Type the following command and press Enter:
ipconfig /flushdns
- You should see a confirmation message indicating the successful flushing of the DNS cache.
Set the startup to normal
Your startup type may be set to selective which prevents the RPC from loading, causing “The RPC server is unavailable” Windows 10 error. You need to make sure that startup is set to “Normal startup.” Here’s how to do it:
- Under the “Startup selection” section, select the “Normal startup” option.
- Click “Apply” and then click “OK.”
Check the registry
you’re still facing “The RPC server is unavailable” error after trying all the fixes above, the issue may lie deeper. It is important for your computer to have the right registry settings to ensure that the RPC is running properly. Moreover, if your RPC services are not set correctly, you may have to modify the registry.
Note: The Windows Registry is a sensitive database, and tweaking its settings may affect your system stability. We strongly recommend creating a backup or system restore point before proceeding to the steps below:
- Log in as Administrator.
- On your keyboard, press Windows key + R.
- Inside the Run dialog, type “regedit,” then hit Enter.
- Once you’re inside the Registry Editor, navigate to the following path:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\services\RpcSs
- Check if you have all the items listed on the right side of the image below:
- If there are any missing items, we recommend reinstalling your operating system.
- If all the items are present, double-click the “Start” option and set “Value data” to 2.
- Next, navigate to the following path:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\services\DcomLaunch
- Double-click the “Start” option and set “Value data” to 2.
As we’ve mentioned, modifying the registry data can be complicated and even dangerous. If you misplace even a comma, you can keep your computer from booting properly. That said, we recommend using Auslogics Registry Cleaner, as this tool automatically creates a backup of your registry and then repairs damaged or corrupted files.
Conclusion
That wraps it up. In this article, we’ve discussed what the RPC server is and the possible causes of “The RPC server is unavailable” Windows 10 error, arming you with the instruments to fix it. We hope that one of the fixes outlined above worked for you.
Have you found an easier way? Or are you just willing to share your success story? Feel free to share it in the comments below, we want to hear from you!
One reply on “[FIXED] How to Fix “The RPC Server Is Unavailable” Error in Windows 10?”
Well. I’d never come across this before. And we don’t network any of our machines. I couldn’t get to File Explorer at all. The Windows key wouldn’t respond. Programs would open – that was about it. Sometimes the RPC error message would say ‘there’s no app available to open this …’ Bewildered, I did the only thing left to do – turned the damn thing off at the power button and had lunch. After lunch I turned it on again and everything was working as normal. You might prefer to do that as well!