How To: Reset WinSock

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Do remember to create a system restore point first.


Winsock, is a technical specification that defines how Windows network software should access network services, especially TCP/IP. Windows comes with Dynamic Link Library (DLL) called winsock.dll that implements the API and coordinates Windows programs and TCP/IP connections. But sometimes Windows Sockets or Winsock may get corrupted as a result of which you may not be able to connect to the Internet. It may therefore need to be repaired.


Reset Winsock
To reset Winsock, open CMD as admin(Press WindowsKey + X while on the Desktop and select Command Prompt(Admin)), type the following and hit Enter.

  • netsh winsock reset
  • netsh int ipv4

You will then have to restart your computer for changes to take effect.


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