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How to Fix the “Referral Was Returned from the Server” Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

If you are encountering the “Referral Was Returned from the Server” error on your Windows 11 computer, you are not alone. This error usually appears when trying to run certain applications or access network resources. It can be frustrating, especially if you need quick access to your programs or files.

This guide will walk you through simple, step-by-step solutions to fix this error. Each step is explained clearly so even beginners can follow along without confusion. We will start with the easiest methods and gradually move to more advanced fixes.

By the end of this article, you should have a better understanding of why this error occurs and how to resolve it effectively. Let’s get started and get your system back to normal.

Remember, patience and following each step carefully will help avoid further issues.

Quick Note: What to Check Before You Begin

  • Check your User Account: Ensure you are logged in with an account that has administrative privileges. Some fixes require admin access.
  • Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can clear temporary glitches causing this error.
  • Note When the Error Occurs: Identify which program or action triggers the error. This helps in targeting the right fix.
  • Backup Important Data: Although these steps are safe, it’s good practice to back up your files before making system changes.

Step 1: Run the Application as Administrator

This error often happens because your user account doesn’t have the necessary permissions to run certain programs. Running the program as an administrator can solve this.

  1. Find the program’s shortcut or executable file.
  2. Right-click on it and select Run as administrator.
  3. If prompted by User Account Control (UAC), click Yes to allow.

Running the program with elevated privileges bypasses certain security restrictions, which may be causing the referral error.

Step 2: Check Group Policy Settings

Windows uses Group Policy to control security settings. Sometimes, a policy setting can block certain applications from running properly, leading to this error.

  1. Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type gpedit.msc and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
  3. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Local Policies > Security Options.
  4. Find the policy named “User Account Control: Only elevate executables that are signed and validated”.
  5. Double-click the policy and set it to Disabled.
  6. Click Apply and then OK.
  7. Restart your computer.

Disabling this policy allows Windows to run applications without requiring them to be signed, which can prevent the referral error.

Note: If your version of Windows 11 does not have Group Policy Editor (common in Home editions), move on to the next step.

Step 3: Modify Registry to Disable Application Verification

If Group Policy is unavailable or ineffective, you can change the registry to bypass application verification checks.

  1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  2. Navigate to the following path:
    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionPoliciesSystem
  3. Look for a value named EnableLUA.
  4. Double-click EnableLUA and change its value from 1 to 0.
  5. Click OK and close the Registry Editor.
  6. Restart your computer.

Disabling EnableLUA turns off User Account Control completely, which removes restrictions causing the referral error. However, this reduces system security, so use it only if necessary.

Step 4: Disable SmartScreen Filter

Windows SmartScreen sometimes blocks applications it considers unsafe. Disabling SmartScreen temporarily can help determine if it’s causing the error.

  1. Open Windows Security by typing it in the Start menu search.
  2. Click on App & browser control.
  3. Under the Check apps and files section, select Off.
  4. Try running the application again.

If disabling SmartScreen fixes the issue, you can keep it off or add the application to the allowed list for safer use.

Alternative Method: Use Compatibility Troubleshooter

If the above steps don’t work, try running Windows Compatibility Troubleshooter to fix app compatibility issues.

  1. Right-click the problematic application’s icon.
  2. Select Properties.
  3. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  4. Click Run compatibility troubleshooter.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to test recommended settings.

This method adjusts settings to make the app run smoothly on Windows 11, potentially avoiding the referral error.

FAQs

What causes the “Referral Was Returned from the Server” error?

This error is usually caused by User Account Control (UAC) restrictions, Group Policy settings, or Windows security features blocking the app’s execution.

Is it safe to disable User Account Control (UAC)?

Disabling UAC can fix the error but reduces your system’s security. It’s recommended only as a last resort or temporary fix.

Can this error occur on Windows 10 or earlier versions?

Yes, similar errors related to referrals and UAC can occur on earlier Windows versions as well.

Do I need administrator rights to fix this error?

Yes, most solutions require administrator privileges to change system settings or policies.

What if I don’t have Group Policy Editor on my Windows 11?

Group Policy Editor is not available on Windows 11 Home. Use registry edits or other methods instead.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still see the error, consider the following options:

  • Run System File Checker: Open Command Prompt as administrator and run sfc /scannow to repair corrupted system files.
  • Create a New User Account: Sometimes user profiles get corrupted. Create a new admin account and check if the problem persists.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support for professional help.
  • Perform System Restore: If the error started recently, restore Windows to a previous point when it worked fine.

Conclusion

The “Referral Was Returned from the Server” error on Windows 11 is often related to security settings and permissions. By running applications as an administrator, adjusting Group Policy or registry settings, and managing security features like SmartScreen, you can usually resolve the problem.

Always start with the simplest fixes and move to more advanced options only if needed. Remember to keep your system backed up and avoid disabling security features unless absolutely necessary.

With the steps outlined here, you should be able to fix the error and enjoy a smoother Windows 11 experience.

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