How to Fix “RPC Server Is Unavailable” Error (Windows Guide)

The “RPC Server Is Unavailable” error is one of the more frustrating issues Windows users can encounter. It often appears unexpectedly when trying to connect to another computer, launch certain programs, print documents, or access network resources. Because Remote Procedure Call (RPC) is a core Windows service, when it fails, multiple system functions can stop working properly.

TLDR: The “RPC Server Is Unavailable” error usually happens because essential Windows services are stopped, network issues block communication, or firewall settings interfere. Users can fix it by restarting RPC services, checking network connections, adjusting firewall rules, updating drivers, or scanning for malware. In most cases, the problem is service-related and can be resolved in a few minutes. If basic solutions fail, registry checks or a system restore may be required.

What Is the RPC Server in Windows?

RPC (Remote Procedure Call) is a protocol that allows a program on one computer to execute code on another computer or device across a shared network. In Windows, RPC is essential for communication between system components and networked machines.

The Remote Procedure Call (RPC) service manages inter-process communication. Many Windows services and applications rely on it, including:

• Windows Update
• Print Spooler
• WMI (Windows Management Instrumentation)
• Network services
• Active Directory functions

When the RPC service fails or becomes inaccessible, Windows may display the error message:

• “The RPC Server is Unavailable.”

Common Causes of the RPC Server Error

Understanding what causes the error can help you fix it quickly. The most common reasons include:

• Stopped RPC services
• Disabled or misconfigured DCOM settings
• Firewall blocking RPC traffic
• Network connectivity issues
• Outdated or corrupted drivers
• Malware infections

The cause may vary depending on whether the error appears on a single computer or during network communication between devices.

How to Fix “RPC Server Is Unavailable” Error

1. Restart the RPC Services

The first step is to verify that all required services are running.

Follow these steps:

1. Press Windows + R.
2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
3. Locate the following services:
   • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
   • DCOM Server Process Launcher
   • RPC Endpoint Mapper
4. Ensure their status is set to Running.
5. Make sure Startup Type is set to Automatic.

If any service is stopped, right-click and select Start.

In many cases, restarting these services immediately resolves the issue.

2. Check Network Connectivity

If the error occurs when connecting to another device, there may be a network issue.

Steps to verify connectivity:

• Ensure both computers are on the same network.
• Use the ping command via Command Prompt:
  • Press Windows + R
  • Type cmd
  • Enter: ping computername

If the ping fails, it indicates a communication issue that must be resolved before RPC can function.

Also verify:

• Network cables or Wi-Fi connection
• Correct IP configuration
• DNS resolution

3. Disable Firewall Temporarily

Windows Firewall or third-party security software may block RPC communication.

To temporarily test this:

1. Open Control Panel.
2. Go to Windows Defender Firewall.
3. Click Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off.
4. Temporarily disable it for testing.

If disabling the firewall resolves the issue, create a firewall rule allowing RPC instead of leaving it off permanently.

Important: Always re-enable your firewall after testing.

4. Check Windows Registry Settings

Note: Editing the registry can cause system issues. Create a restore point before making changes.

To verify RPC registry settings:

1. Press Windows + R.
2. Type regedit.
3. Navigate to:

   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\RpcSs

Ensure that Start is set to 2 (Automatic).

If it’s set incorrectly, modifying it may resolve the issue.

5. Update Network Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers can interfere with RPC communications.

To update drivers:

1. Right-click the Start button.
2. Select Device Manager.
3. Expand Network adapters.
4. Right-click your adapter and choose Update driver.

You can also download the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s website.

6. Run System File Checker

Corrupted system files may cause the RPC service to malfunction.

To scan and repair:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type:

   sfc /scannow

3. Press Enter.

This tool scans Windows system files and repairs corrupted ones automatically.

7. Scan for Malware

Some malware targets Windows services, including RPC.

Run a full system scan using:

• Windows Defender
• Trusted antivirus software

Removing infections can restore normal system service behavior.

8. Perform a System Restore

If the issue started recently, restoring Windows to a previous working state may fix it.

Steps:

1. Open Control Panel.
2. Select Recovery.
3. Click Open System Restore.
4. Choose a restore point before the error appeared.

This method is particularly useful if a recent update or software installation triggered the issue.

Troubleshooting Comparison Chart

Preventing RPC Errors in the Future

To minimize the risk of encountering this issue again, users should:

• Keep Windows updated
• Regularly update drivers
• Use reliable antivirus protection
• Avoid unnecessarily disabling system services
• Create restore points before major changes

Regular maintenance drastically reduces service-related errors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What does “RPC Server Is Unavailable” mean?

It means Windows cannot communicate with a required service or remote computer through the Remote Procedure Call protocol. The issue usually stems from stopped services, network issues, or blocked connections.

2. Is RPC a virus?

No. RPC is a legitimate and critical Windows system service. However, malware can interfere with or disguise itself as system processes, which is why antivirus scanning is recommended.

3. Can I disable RPC in Windows?

No. Disabling RPC can cause Windows to stop functioning properly. Many core services depend on it, and disabling it may prevent the system from booting.

4. Why does this error appear when printing?

The Print Spooler service depends on RPC. If RPC communication fails, the printing process cannot proceed, triggering the error message.

5. Does resetting Windows fix the RPC error?

Yes, resetting Windows can fix the problem if it’s caused by deep system corruption. However, this should be considered a last resort after trying less invasive solutions.

6. Can network domain issues cause RPC errors?

Yes. In business environments, domain controller connectivity problems often trigger RPC errors, particularly when logging in or accessing shared resources.

The “RPC Server Is Unavailable” error may look serious, but in most cases, it can be resolved with straightforward troubleshooting steps. Restarting essential services, verifying network connectivity, and checking firewall settings solve the issue for most users. With proper maintenance and regular system updates, this Windows error can usually be prevented from recurring.