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Encountering the Windows 11 error 0x80072746 can be frustrating, especially when it disrupts your workflow. This error is often related to network connectivity issues, making it hard to access certain online services or updates. Fortunately, there are straightforward steps you can follow to resolve this problem.

This guide walks you through each troubleshooting step in a simple and clear manner. Whether you’re a beginner or somewhat familiar with Windows settings, you will find these instructions easy to follow. Let’s get started on fixing this error together.

Before diving into complex fixes, we will cover some quick checks to save you time. Then, we’ll move from basic solutions to more advanced troubleshooting methods.

By the end of this guide, you should have a clear understanding of how to address error 0x80072746 and restore your Windows 11 system’s normal functionality.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Before you begin troubleshooting, make sure you have the following checked:

• Internet Connection: Ensure your device is properly connected to the internet. A weak or disconnected network can cause errors like 0x80072746.
• Windows Updates: Verify that your Windows 11 is up to date. Sometimes, missing updates can lead to such errors.
• Restart Your PC: A simple restart can often resolve temporary glitches causing the error.
• Check Firewall and Antivirus: These programs might block network activities leading to this error. Temporarily disabling them can help identify if they are the cause.

Step 1: Run Windows Network Troubleshooter

The Windows Network Troubleshooter is a built-in tool that scans and fixes common network problems automatically. This should be your first step because it is easy and can solve many network-related errors without manual intervention.

1. Click the Start button, then select Settings.
2. Go to System and click on Troubleshoot.
3. Select Other troubleshooters.
4. Find Internet Connections and click Run next to it.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to let Windows detect and fix any network issues.

After the troubleshooter completes, check if the error 0x80072746 still appears.

Step 2: Reset TCP/IP Stack and Winsock

This step involves resetting network settings that help your computer communicate with other devices on the internet. Sometimes, corrupted TCP/IP or Winsock entries cause network errors.

Resetting them can restore proper network functionality.

1. Press Windows + S, type Command Prompt, then right-click and select Run as administrator.
2. In the Command Prompt window, type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:

netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset

3. After both commands run successfully, restart your computer.

Try your network-dependent task again to see if the error has been resolved.

Step 3: Check and Disable Proxy Settings

Proxy servers sometimes interfere with network connections, causing errors like 0x80072746. If you don’t use a proxy, disabling it might help.

1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
2. Click on Network & Internet.
3. Select Proxy from the sidebar.
4. Under Manual proxy setup, make sure the Use a proxy server option is turned off.
5. If it was on, toggle it off and test your internet connection again.

Step 4: Temporarily Disable Firewall and Antivirus Software

Sometimes, firewall or antivirus programs block network connections unintentionally. Temporarily disabling these can help identify if they are the root cause.

• Windows Firewall:
  • Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security.
  • Click Firewall & network protection.
  • Select your active network and toggle off the firewall.
• Antivirus Software:
  • Open your antivirus program.
  • Look for an option to disable protection temporarily.

After disabling, try your network task again. Remember to enable your firewall and antivirus after the test.

Step 5: Update Network Adapter Drivers

Outdated or corrupted network drivers can cause connectivity errors. Updating them ensures your hardware communicates properly with Windows 11.

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the Network adapters section.
3. Right-click your network adapter (it may include words like Ethernet or Wi-Fi) and select Update driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for drivers.
5. If an update is found, follow the prompts to install it.
6. Restart your PC and check if the error persists.

Alternative Method: Use System File Checker (SFC) Scan

If the above steps don’t work, corrupted system files might be causing the error. Running an SFC scan can detect and repair these files.

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (as explained earlier).
2. Type the following command and press Enter:

sfc /scannow

3. Wait for the scan to complete. It may take some time.
4. If any corrupted files are found, Windows will attempt to fix them automatically.
5. After completion, restart your computer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What exactly does error 0x80072746 mean?

This error usually indicates a problem with network connectivity, often related to socket or connection issues between your PC and the internet.

Can a virus cause this error?

While viruses can affect network settings, this error is more commonly caused by misconfigured network settings or corrupted drivers rather than malware.

Is it safe to disable firewall and antivirus during troubleshooting?

Yes, but only temporarily. Always re-enable them immediately after testing to keep your system protected.

Will resetting TCP/IP and Winsock remove my network settings?

Resetting TCP/IP and Winsock restores these settings to default. You might need to re-enter certain network configurations like static IP addresses or proxy settings afterward.

What if I still see the error after all these steps?

It might indicate a deeper system or hardware issue. Consider seeking professional support or moving on to advanced troubleshooting.

When Nothing Works: Final Options

If none of the above solutions resolve error 0x80072746, here are some last-resort options:

• System Restore: Roll back your system to a previous point when everything was working fine.
• Network Reset: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset. This will reinstall network adapters and set network components to default.
• Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support website or use the Windows Feedback Hub to report your issue.
• Professional Help: If the problem persists, consider consulting a certified technician.

Conclusion

Error 0x80072746 in Windows 11 is often linked to network connectivity problems that can usually be fixed with basic troubleshooting. Starting with simple steps like running the network troubleshooter and resetting network settings can frequently resolve the issue. Disabling proxies, updating drivers, and scanning for corrupted system files add further layers of fixes.

Remember to proceed from the easiest solutions to more advanced ones, and always keep your system backed up before making major changes. With patience and careful following of these steps, you can restore your Windows 11 system’s connectivity and enjoy smooth performance once again.