Windows System Error Code ERROR_167, also known as "The network location cannot be reached", can be frustrating. It typically appears when you try to access network resources, such as shared folders or drives, but Windows can’t establish a stable connection to the target device or service.
Whether you’re a seasoned IT pro or a casual user, don’t worry — I’ll walk you through this issue with clear, detailed steps that anyone can follow. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of what causes ERROR_167 and, most importantly, how to fix it effectively.
What is Windows System Error Code ERROR_167?
ERROR_167 often appears during network-related operations when Windows fails to locate or connect to a network path. It’s usually triggered by network misconfigurations, permissions issues, or temporary glitches in the network infrastructure.
Common messages you might see:
- “The network location cannot be reached.”
- “Error code 167: Network path not found.”
Why Does ERROR_167 Happen?
Understanding the root cause helps to solve the problem faster. Typical reasons include:
- Network connection or hardware problems.
- Incorrect network credentials or permission restrictions.
- Disabled network sharing or discovery options on your PC.
- Firewall or antivirus software blocking the connection.
- DNS or IP address conflicts.
- Corrupted system files impacting network functionality.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix ERROR_167
Step 1: Check Your Network Connection
Before digging deep, ensure you’re actually connected to the network.
- Click the Network icon in the system tray.
- Make sure you are connected to your Wi-Fi or Ethernet network.
- Try visiting a website or pinging a known IP address (
ping 8.8.8.8) via Command Prompt.
If you’re disconnected, restart your router/modem and reconnect your PC.
Step 2: Verify Network Sharing Settings
Network sharing must be enabled to access network resources.
- Press
Windows + S, type “Control Panel”, and open it. - Navigate to Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
- Click Change advanced sharing settings on the left panel.
- Under your current profile (Private or Public), ensure:
- Turn on network discovery is selected.
- Turn on file and printer sharing is enabled.
- Save changes.
Step 3: Confirm That the Network Path Exists
Sometimes the error occurs because the specified network path no longer exists or the shared resource is offline.
- Double-check the network path (e.g.,
\\ServerName\ShareFolder). - Make sure the target device is turned on and connected.
- On another device, try accessing the same network path to confirm.
Step 4: Update Network Drivers
Outdated or corrupt network drivers might disrupt connectivity.
- Press
Windows + Xand select Device Manager. - Expand Network Adapters.
- Right-click your network adapter > Update driver.
- Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Follow prompts; restart your PC after updates.
Step 5: Disable Firewall and Antivirus Temporarily
Your firewall or antivirus software might be blocking network access.
- Temporarily turn off your firewall:
- Open Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
- Click Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off.
- Select Turn off Windows Defender Firewall temporarily for your network.
- Disable third-party antivirus shield temporarily.
Try reconnecting to your network resource. If it works, add the network location as an exception on your firewall/antivirus settings.
Step 6: Reset TCP/IP Stack
Corrupt TCP/IP settings could cause access issues.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator (search “cmd,” right-click, and select Run as administrator).
-
Run these commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns - Restart your computer and check your network connection.
Step 7: Map Network Drive Properly
If accessing a shared drive, try remapping it:
- Open File Explorer.
- Go to This PC.
- Click Map network drive from the top ribbon.
- Choose a drive letter.
- Enter the network folder path, e.g.,
\\ServerName\ShareFolder. - Select Reconnect at sign-in if desired.
- If credentials are needed, click Connect using different credentials.
- Finish and try accessing the mapped drive.
Step 8: Check for System File Corruption
Corrupted system files can cause network errors.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type
sfc /scannowand press Enter. - Wait for the process to complete (this can take a while).
- If corrupt files are found and fixed, restart your PC.
Step 9: Perform a Network Reset (Last Resort)
If all else fails, reset network settings to defaults.
- Open Settings > Network & Internet > Status.
- Scroll down and click Network reset.
- Confirm the reset and restart your PC.
Note: You may need to re-enter Wi-Fi credentials and reconfigure VPN or proxy settings afterward.
Final Advice: Regular Maintenance Prevents Future Issues
- Keep your Windows OS and drivers updated.
- Maintain a secure but flexible firewall configuration.
- Regularly check network devices for firmware updates.
- Create system restore points before major network changes.
Conclusion
ERROR_167 can be a nuisance but is usually straightforward to fix by following systematic troubleshooting steps. From simple network checks to advanced system commands, these solutions cover the root causes behind the error.
If you’ve tried these steps and still face problems, consider reaching out to your network administrator or Microsoft support for further assistance.
FAQ About ERROR_167
Q: Can a bad cable cause ERROR_167?
A: Absolutely! Faulty or loose cables disrupt network communication and can trigger this error. Inspect your hardware physically.
Q: Does restarting my PC help with this error?
A: Restarting often clears temporary glitches and can resolve transient network errors.
Q: Is ERROR_167 harmful?
A: Not harmful per se, but it hinders network operations, so fixing it improves your PC’s overall usability.
I hope this guide helped you resolve Windows System Error Code ERROR_167! If you have any questions or want troubleshooting tips for other Windows errors, feel free to ask!
