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How to Fix IP Helper Service Not Running Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

If you are experiencing issues with the IP Helper service not running on your Windows 11 PC, it can affect network functions and connectivity. This service is essential for certain network features, including IPv6 connectivity and tunneling protocols. Fortunately, fixing this issue is usually straightforward.

In this guide, we will walk you through simple, step-by-step solutions to get the IP Helper service up and running again. Each step is explained clearly so that even beginners can follow along.

By the end, you should have a working IP Helper service, allowing your network-dependent applications and features to function properly. Let’s get started.

Before diving into fixes, it’s helpful to understand what the IP Helper service does and why it’s important.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Ensure you have administrative rights: You will need admin privileges to start, stop, or modify system services.
  • Check your internet connection: Sometimes connectivity issues are unrelated to the service itself.
  • Restart your computer: A simple reboot can often fix temporary glitches.
  • Verify Windows updates: Make sure your system is up to date, as some updates improve network services.

Step 1: Verify the IP Helper Service Status

The first step is to check whether the IP Helper service is running or stopped. Here’s how to do this:

  1. Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter. This opens the Services window.
  3. Scroll down and find IP Helper in the list.
  4. Look at the Status column. If it says Running, the service is active. If not, proceed to the next step.

This step is important because it confirms whether the service is disabled or just temporarily stopped.

Step 2: Start or Restart the IP Helper Service

If the IP Helper service is stopped, you can start it manually:

  1. In the Services window, right-click on IP Helper.
  2. Select Start. If Start is greyed out, select Restart instead.
  3. Wait a few moments and check if the status changes to Running.

Starting the service manually will restore its functions immediately if it was stopped due to a temporary issue.

Step 3: Set IP Helper Service to Start Automatically

To prevent the IP Helper service from stopping after a reboot, it’s best to set it to start automatically:

  1. Right-click on IP Helper in the Services window and select Properties.
  2. Under the General tab, find the Startup type dropdown menu.
  3. Select Automatic from the list.
  4. Click Apply, then OK to save changes.

This ensures the service will start every time your computer boots, reducing the chance of future connectivity issues.

Step 4: Use Command Prompt to Restart IP Helper

If starting the service via Services window doesn’t work, you can try using the Command Prompt with administrative privileges:

  1. Press Windows + S and type cmd.
  2. Right-click on Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
  3. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
net stop iphlpsvc
net start iphlpsvc

This sequence stops and restarts the IP Helper service. It’s useful for fixing glitches that prevent the service from running.

Step 5: Check System Files for Corruption

Corrupted system files can cause services like IP Helper to malfunction. You can scan for and repair corrupted files using the System File Checker tool:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (as shown above).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This process will scan your system for corrupted files and attempt to fix them automatically. It may take several minutes.

Step 6: Use Windows Network Reset

If the previous steps didn’t resolve the issue, resetting your network settings might help. This will remove and reinstall all your network adapters and set other networking components back to default.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Go to Network & internet from the left sidebar.
  3. Scroll down and click on Advanced network settings.
  4. Click Network reset at the bottom.
  5. Click the Reset now button and confirm.
  6. Your PC will restart automatically and network configurations will be reset.

Note that you will need to reconnect to Wi-Fi networks and reconfigure VPNs after this reset.

Alternative Method: Modify Registry Settings (Advanced)

If you are comfortable working with the Windows Registry, you can check if the IP Helper service startup settings are correct there. However, this step is only recommended for advanced users.

  1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to the following path:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetServicesiphlpsvc
  1. On the right pane, find the Start DWORD value.
  2. Ensure its value is set to 2, which means Automatic start. If it’s different, right-click, select Modify, and change it to 2.
  3. Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer.

Warning: Incorrect changes in the registry can cause serious system problems. Always back up your registry before making any changes.

FAQs

What is the IP Helper service?

IP Helper is a Windows service that provides network connectivity assistance, especially for IPv6 and tunneling protocols. It helps manage network configurations and enables certain networking features.

Why does the IP Helper service stop running?

It may stop due to system errors, corrupted files, conflicts with other software, or incorrect startup settings.

Can I disable IP Helper service?

It is not recommended to disable the IP Helper service because it supports important network functions. Disabling it may cause connectivity issues.

Will restarting the service affect my network?

Restarting the IP Helper service temporarily interrupts related network services, but it usually restores functionality once restarted.

Is it safe to reset my network settings?

Yes, network reset is safe but it removes saved Wi-Fi passwords and VPN settings, so you will need to set them up again.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above steps resolve the IP Helper service issue, consider the following options:

  • Run Windows Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and run the Network Adapter troubleshooter.
  • Check for malware: Use Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus to scan for malware that might interfere with system services.
  • Perform a System Restore: Restore your PC to a previous working state if the problem started recently.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support website for further assistance or community forums.

Conclusion

The IP Helper service plays a crucial role in managing network connections on Windows 11. When it stops running, your network functionality can be affected. Starting with simple checks and moving towards more advanced fixes usually resolves the problem.

Always ensure the service is set to start automatically, and use Windows tools like System File Checker and network reset to repair underlying issues. If problems persist, advanced options like registry edits or system restore can help.

By following these detailed, easy-to-understand steps, you can fix the IP Helper service not running error and restore your system’s network capabilities.

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