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How to Fix the Windows 10 UPnP Bug: Step-by-Step Guide to Solve UPnP Not Working Errors

Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) is a useful feature in Windows 10 that allows devices to discover each other and establish network services for seamless connectivity. However, sometimes UPnP can stop working properly, leading to network issues or device connection problems.

Many users face UPnP errors without knowing how to fix them effectively. Fortunately, resolving UPnP problems on Windows 10 can be straightforward once you understand the steps involved.

This guide will walk you through simple, easy-to-follow instructions to fix the UPnP bug on your Windows 10 system. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow along.

By the end, you will be able to troubleshoot and solve most common UPnP issues on your own.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before diving into the troubleshooting steps, please ensure the following:

  • Your Windows 10 system is up to date with the latest updates installed. UPnP issues can sometimes be fixed by Microsoft patches.
  • Your router supports UPnP and it is enabled in the router settings. UPnP on Windows depends on your network device allowing this feature.
  • You have administrative privileges on your Windows 10 PC, as some steps require making system-level changes.
  • Make sure your network connection is stable and working correctly.

Step 1: Restart the UPnP Service

The first and simplest step is to restart the UPnP service on your Windows 10 computer. This service manages the UPnP functionality and can sometimes get stuck or crash.

  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 the service named UPnP Device Host.
  4. Right-click on it and select Restart. If it’s not running, click Start.
  5. Next, look for SSDP Discovery service and do the same — restart or start it.
  6. Close the Services window and check if UPnP is working now.

Why this matters: Restarting services resets their state and resolves minor glitches causing UPnP failures.

Step 2: Enable UPnP in Network Settings

Sometimes UPnP may be disabled in Windows Firewall or network settings, preventing it from functioning properly.

  1. Open Control Panel by searching for it in the Start menu.
  2. Navigate to Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
  3. Click on Change advanced sharing settings on the left sidebar.
  4. Under your current network profile (Private or Public), make sure Network discovery is turned on.
  5. Also, ensure the option Turn on automatic setup of network connected devices is enabled.
  6. Click Save changes if you made any adjustments.
  7. Check your Windows Firewall settings by searching for Windows Defender Firewall.
  8. Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
  9. Look for UPnP Framework and make sure it’s allowed on both private and public networks.

Why this matters: UPnP functions rely on network discovery and firewall permissions to communicate properly between devices.

Step 3: Reset Network Settings

If restarting services and enabling UPnP options don’t help, resetting network settings can fix deeper configuration problems.

  1. Open Settings from the Start menu.
  2. Go to Network & Internet.
  3. Scroll down on the Status tab and click Network reset.
  4. Click Reset now and confirm. Your PC will restart automatically.
  5. After reboot, check if UPnP is functioning correctly.

Why this matters: Network reset clears all network adapters and returns network settings to their default state, which can fix corrupted or misconfigured settings affecting UPnP.

Step 4: Update Network Adapter Drivers

Outdated or faulty network drivers can also cause UPnP errors. Keeping your network drivers updated ensures compatibility and smooth operation.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Network adapters section.
  3. Right-click your main network adapter (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. If an update is found, install it and restart your PC.
  6. Test the UPnP functionality again.

Why this matters: Driver updates often include fixes for bugs and improved network features that help UPnP work better.

Alternative Method: Use Command Prompt to Restart UPnP Services

If you prefer using commands, you can restart UPnP services via Command Prompt:

  1. Press Windows + X and choose Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
    3. net stop upnphost
net start upnphost
net stop SSDPSRV
net start SSDPSRV
  3. Close the terminal and check if UPnP works.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is UPnP and why is it important?

UPnP stands for Universal Plug and Play. It allows devices on the same network to discover and communicate with each other automatically. This is important for streaming, gaming, and other device connectivity tasks.

My router does not have UPnP enabled, can Windows UPnP still work?

No, UPnP requires support from both your PC and router. If your router has UPnP disabled, devices will not be able to use UPnP features properly.

Can UPnP cause security risks?

Yes, UPnP can sometimes expose your network to vulnerabilities if not managed properly because it opens ports automatically. It’s recommended to enable UPnP only on trusted networks.

Why do I get UPnP errors after Windows updates?

Windows updates can change system files or settings related to UPnP. Restarting services or resetting network settings usually resolves these conflicts.

Is it safe to reset network settings?

Yes, but note that resetting network settings will remove saved Wi-Fi passwords and VPN connections, so you will need to set those up again.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and UPnP is still not working, consider the following:

  • Check your router’s firmware and update it to the latest version. Router updates can fix UPnP bugs on the device side.
  • Temporarily disable third-party security software or firewalls to see if they are blocking UPnP traffic.
  • Consult Microsoft’s official support page for UPnP issues: Microsoft Support.
  • Consider contacting your router manufacturer’s support for help with UPnP settings.
  • As a last resort, you may perform a system restore to a point where UPnP was working.

Conclusion

Fixing UPnP issues on Windows 10 is usually a matter of restarting services, enabling proper network settings, and ensuring your drivers and router support the feature. By following the step-by-step instructions in this guide, you can resolve most UPnP errors quickly and restore smooth device connectivity on your network.

Remember to always keep your system and router updated and to check firewall permissions if UPnP stops working. With these simple actions, you can maintain a stable and secure network environment.

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