Fixing the ERROR_TOO_MANY_NAMES 68 (0x44) Error: A Complete Guide

Step 1: Expand Dynamic Port Range

To manage network traffic effectively, we need to increase the number of dynamic ports available to your system:

1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Command Prompt, and select “Run as administrator”.
2. Click Yes when prompted by UAC.
3. Type the following command and hit Enter to see the current dynamic port settings: netsh int ipv4 show dynamicport tcp
4. To increase the dynamic port range, enter this command: netsh int ipv4 set dynamicport tcp start=1025 num=64510
5. Check if the ERROR_TOO_MANY_NAMES issue persists.

Pro Tip: Always reboot your system after making changes to network settings to ensure they take effect.

Step 2: Reinstall Your Network Adapter

If the problem continues, reinstalling the network adapter may help:

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Locate the Network adapters section, right-click on your active network adapter, and select Uninstall device.
3. Check the box for Attempt to remove the driver for this device, then click on Uninstall.
4. After uninstalling, restart your PC to allow Windows to reinstall the network adapter automatically.

Step 3: Update Network Adapter Drivers

Keeping your drivers updated is crucial for proper network functionality:

1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type devmgmt.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Expand Network adapters, right-click on your active adapter, and choose Update driver.
3. Click on Search automatically for drivers and let Windows find and install any available updates.
4. Reboot your computer to finalize the updates.

Pro Tip: If Windows doesn’t locate a new driver, consider downloading it directly from the manufacturer’s website.

Step 4: Activate Windows Defender Firewall

The Windows Defender Firewall may need to be turned on for better port management:

1. Press Windows + S, type Control Panel, and select it from the results.
2. Click on System and Security.
3. Select Windows Defender Firewall.
4. Choose Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off from the left pane.
5. Enable Windows Defender Firewall for both Private and Public network settings, and click OK.

Pro Tip: Enabling firewall services can prevent many network-related problems by managing port usage effectively.

Step 5: Reset Your Network Configuration

To resolve deep-rooted issues, resetting your network settings might be necessary:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings, then navigate to Network & Internet > Advanced network settings.
2. Click on Network reset.
3. Click the Reset now button and confirm your selection.

Pro Tip: After resetting the network, check all connected devices as they may require reconfiguration.

Step 6: Conduct a System Restore

If the problem persists, a system restore can revert your system to a previous state:

1. Press Windows + S, type Create a restore point, and select it.
2. Click on the System Restore button.
3. Select Choose a different restore point, then click Next.
4. Choose the oldest restore point available and click Next.
5. Review the information and select Finish to commence the restoration process.
6. Be ready to wait for 15-45 minutes for the system to fully restore.

Step 7: Seek Professional Help

If all solutions fail, contacting support may be necessary:

• If you’re experiencing issues with a third-party server, reach out to their support.
• For Windows Server inquiries, reach out to Microsoft’s support team.
• In workplaces, consider reaching out to your IT department for assistance.

Pro Tip: Document the steps you’ve taken when seeking help to expedite the support process.

What is ERROR_TOO_MANY_NAMES?

How can I prevent this error in the future?