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How to Fix WPAD Name Resolution Timed Out Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Encountering the WPAD name resolution timed out error on Windows 11 can be frustrating. This error usually appears when your system tries to find a proxy auto-configuration script automatically but fails to get a response in time.

Understanding how to fix this issue can improve your internet connectivity and browsing experience. Fortunately, the solutions are straightforward and do not require advanced technical skills.

This guide will walk you through simple, step-by-step methods to resolve the WPAD timeout error efficiently.

By following these instructions carefully, you can restore normal network behavior on your Windows 11 device.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Ensure your internet connection is stable and working properly.
  • Check if you are connected to the correct Wi-Fi or wired network.
  • Have administrator privileges on your Windows 11 PC to perform network changes.
  • Make sure your system date and time are set correctly as incorrect settings can affect network functions.

Step 1: Disable Automatic Proxy Detection

The WPAD feature relies on automatic proxy detection, which can sometimes cause delays or errors if the network does not have a proxy configured. Disabling this can stop Windows from searching for a WPAD script.

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Navigate to Network & Internet in the left sidebar.
  3. Scroll down and click on Proxy.
  4. Under Automatic proxy setup, toggle Automatically detect settings to Off.
  5. Restart your computer to apply changes.

Why this matters: Disabling automatic proxy detection prevents Windows from trying to find a WPAD configuration, which is often unnecessary for most home users and causes the timeout error.

Step 2: Clear DNS Cache

A corrupted or outdated DNS cache can contribute to name resolution problems. Clearing the DNS cache forces your system to obtain fresh DNS information.

  1. Press Windows + S and type Command Prompt.
  2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. In the command window, type the following command and press Enter:
    4. ipconfig /flushdns
  4. Wait for the confirmation message that the DNS Resolver Cache was successfully flushed.
  5. Restart your computer.

Why this helps: Flushing DNS clears outdated records that might cause delays or failures when your system tries to resolve network addresses like WPAD.

Step 3: Reset Network Settings

Resetting network settings can fix misconfigurations causing the WPAD error. This step will remove and reinstall your network adapters and reset network components to default.

  1. Open Settings from the Start menu.
  2. Go to Network & Internet > Status.
  3. Scroll down and click Network reset.
  4. Click the Reset now button and confirm any prompts.
  5. Your PC will restart automatically after the reset.

Important: This will remove saved Wi-Fi passwords and VPN settings, so be ready to reconnect to your networks.

Step 4: Disable Web Proxy Auto-Discovery Service

The Web Proxy Auto-Discovery Service (WPAD) runs in the background and can cause delays if it is unable to find a proxy configuration. Disabling this service can prevent the timeout error.

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. In the Services window, scroll down and find Web Proxy Auto-Discovery Service.
  4. Right-click it and select Properties.
  5. Set the Startup type to Disabled.
  6. Click Stop if the service is running, then click OK.
  7. Restart your computer.

Note: Disabling this service will stop WPAD-related network auto-detection, which is usually not needed for most users.

Alternative Method: Use Static Proxy Settings

If your network requires a proxy, manually configuring proxy settings can avoid the WPAD timeout issue.

  1. Open Settings > Network & Internet > Proxy.
  2. Under Manual proxy setup, toggle Use a proxy server to On.
  3. Enter your proxy server address and port number as provided by your network administrator.
  4. Click Save and restart your browser.

Why this helps: Manually setting proxy details bypasses the need for WPAD lookup, eliminating the timeout error.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the WPAD name resolution timed out error?

This error happens when Windows tries to automatically detect a proxy configuration via WPAD but does not receive a response within the expected time. It is often due to no proxy being set up or network issues blocking the detection.

Is it safe to disable WPAD?

Yes, for most home and small office users, WPAD is not required and disabling it will not affect internet access. However, in corporate environments using proxy auto-configuration, it might be necessary.

Will disabling automatic proxy detection affect my internet speed?

Disabling automatic proxy detection usually improves connection speed by preventing delays caused by WPAD lookups, especially if no proxy is used.

Do I need to restart my computer after changing these settings?

Restarting helps ensure that all settings take full effect, especially after disabling services or resetting network configurations.

Can a firewall or antivirus cause WPAD errors?

Yes, aggressive firewall or antivirus settings can block WPAD requests. Temporarily disabling them can help identify if they are the cause.

When Nothing Works

If the above solutions do not fix the WPAD name resolution timed out error, consider the following:

  • Check with your network administrator or ISP to confirm if a proxy is needed.
  • Update your Windows 11 system to the latest version for bug fixes and network improvements.
  • Run the Network Troubleshooter by going to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Network Adapter.
  • Contact Microsoft Support or visit the official Microsoft support site for advanced help.

Conclusion

The WPAD name resolution timed out error on Windows 11 often results from unnecessary automatic proxy detection attempts. By disabling automatic proxy setup, clearing DNS cache, resetting network settings, and disabling the Web Proxy Auto-Discovery Service, you can resolve this issue quickly and improve your network experience.

Remember to restart your computer after making changes to ensure they apply properly. If you use a proxy, manually entering the proxy details can prevent WPAD timeouts altogether.

Following these simple steps will help you overcome the WPAD error and maintain smooth internet connectivity on your Windows 11 device.

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