Encountering a Windows error code like ERROR_172 can be frustrating, especially when you’re unsure what caused it or how to resolve it. Whether you’re a seasoned tech enthusiast or a casual user, this detailed guide will walk you through the steps to identify and fix Windows Error Code ERROR_172 effectively — all without the tech jargon!
What Is Windows Error Code ERROR_172?
Before diving into the solution, let’s quickly understand what ERROR_172 means. This Windows error typically relates to issues with network connections or security settings that prevent certain operations — like accessing shared folders or network resources — from completing successfully.
Common symptoms include:
- Inability to access shared files or printers
- Network connection failures
- Permission or authentication issues when connecting to certain drives or resources
Knowing this helps us target the root cause of the problem — whether it’s a misconfiguration, corrupted drivers, or security blocks.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix ERROR_172 on Windows
Step 1: Restart Your Computer and Network Devices
Why?
Sometimes, temporary glitches can cause errors like ERROR_172. Restarting refreshes your system and network.
How?
- Shut down your Windows PC.
- Power off your router/modem.
- Wait 1-2 minutes.
- Turn your router/modem back on.
- Boot your PC and check if the error persists.
Step 2: Run Windows Network Troubleshooter
Why?
Windows has built-in tools to identify and fix network-related problems automatically.
How?
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Navigate to Network & Internet > Status.
- Click Network Troubleshooter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Restart your PC after fixes are applied.
Step 3: Check Your Network Adapter Settings
Why?
Network adapters manage your PC’s connections. If these are misconfigured, ERROR_172 might appear.
How?
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand Network adapters.
- Right-click your active network adapter and select Properties.
- Under the Driver tab, click Update Driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers.
- If no update is found, revisit this menu later for new updates.
- Additionally, under the Advanced tab, ensure settings like IPv4, IPv6, and Client for Microsoft Networks are enabled.
Step 4: Verify Your Firewall and Antivirus Settings
Why?
Your firewall or antivirus software might block certain network operations, causing ERROR_172.
How?
- Temporarily disable 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 for both private and public networks.
- Disable third-party antivirus software temporarily.
- Test the operation that caused ERROR_172.
- If it works, adjust firewall or antivirus settings to whitelist the apps or network.
Step 5: Reset TCP/IP Stack and Network Settings
Why?
Resetting resets the core network components to default, fixing corrupt or conflicting configurations.
How?
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
- Press Windows + X, then select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
-
Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
netsh int ip reset
netsh winsock reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns - Restart your computer.
Step 6: Check Your Network Sharing and Permissions Settings
Why?
Sometimes, sharing permissions or network discovery settings can prevent resource access.
How?
- Open Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center.
- Click on Change advanced sharing settings.
- Ensure that:
- Turn on network discovery is selected.
- Turn on file and printer sharing is enabled.
- Check the properties of the shared folder or printer for proper permissions.
- Right-click the folder, choose Properties > Sharing > Advanced Sharing.
- Click Permissions and make sure your user account or "Everyone" has access.
Step 7: Check for Windows Updates
Why?
Microsoft often releases patches that fix known Windows errors.
How?
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any available updates and restart your PC.
Step 8: Use System File Checker to Repair Corrupted Files
Why?
Corrupted system files can trigger various errors, including ERROR_172.
How?
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
-
Enter the command:
sfc /scannow
- Wait for the process to complete (this may take 10-15 minutes).
- Repair any corrupted files if prompted.
- Restart your PC.
Step 9: Restore Your System (If Necessary)
Why?
If ERROR_172 started recently, and nothing else works, restoring your system to an earlier point might fix it.
How?
- Press Windows + R, type
rstrui, and press Enter. - Choose a restore point before the error began.
- Follow the prompts to complete the restore.
- Note: You won’t lose personal files, but recently installed programs might be removed.
Final Thoughts
Windows Error Code ERROR_172 can throw a wrench in your day, but with patience and the right steps, it’s usually straightforward to fix. Be sure to try these steps in order and always back up your important data before making major changes.
If the error persists after trying everything, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support or a trusted IT professional for further help.
FAQs About ERROR_172
Q1: Is ERROR_172 related to hardware failure?
Usually, no. This error mostly points to network or software configuration issues.
Q2: Can antivirus software cause ERROR_172?
Yes, it can sometimes block network access, leading to this error.
Q3: Will updating Windows fix ERROR_172?
It often helps since updates patch bugs and improve network compatibility.
By following this guide, you’re well on your way to resolving ERROR_172 and getting your Windows device back to smooth operation. Feel free to bookmark this article for quick reference next time you encounter network issues!
If you found this guide helpful, please share it so others can troubleshoot their Windows errors confidently, too!
