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Windows can't communicate with the device or resource (primary DNS server)

Anonymous
2022-10-14T13:56:25+00:00

Hey, I know this isn't the first question on the topic, but no tips I found solved my problem. I have a desktop computer whose internet connection via ethernet cable stopped working.

If I run Windows Troubleshooter for Network Adapter, I get the following messages:

"Windows can't communicate with the device or resource (primary DNS server)"

"Security or firewall settings might be blocking the connection"

If I run Windows Netwwork Diagnostics from my browser, I get the following message:
"Your computer appears to be correctly configured, but the device or resource is not responding"

The connection worked fine before using the same ethernet cable and the same router. Strangely, if I start the computer, initially it shows that it has internet connection (e.g., during logging into my Windows user), but then switches after a while to "No Internet". If I try to get internet over my phone via USB, it doesn't work. If I connect the cable to a notebook, it works, so the issue is not with the router or cable. What I tried so far, without success:

  • Switching Windows Firewall temporarily off (I don't use any third-party firewall or antivirus applications).
  • Uninstalling the ethernet connection adapter from the device manager and restarting the computer.
  • Ensuring that IP and DNS server addresses are set to automatic under Ethernet properties, Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
  • Running the following commands from the command prompt: ipconfig /flushdns, ipconfig /registerdns, ipconfig /release, ipconfig /renew
  • Transferring with an external hard disk, I have installed the newest version for my ethernet network adapter (Intel Ethernet Connection (2) i219-v)
  • “Network reset” under Settings, Network & Internet, and restarting the computer.

 I'm desperate. I am working from home office and need this computer for some tasks I cannot do on the notebook. Thanks so much for help in advance.

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Internet and connectivity

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  1. franco d'esaro 24,991 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2022-10-17T16:04:18+00:00

    Hi Matthias Luthi ,

    Make sure there is no Proxy Server or VPN software configured on the PC.

    Turn off the router and also unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet, disconnect the network cable on both sides, turn the router back on after a few minutes, reconnect the network cable and try again.

    If the problem persists, try to reset network connections: Open PowerShell or CMD and run as administrator, copy and paste the following commands by pressing enter at the end of each command line:

    netsh winsock reset

    netsh int ip reset

    netsh advfirewall reset
    ipconfig /flushdns

    Restart the computer at the end of all commands.

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  2. Anonymous
    2022-10-14T15:01:03+00:00

    Hi, I'm Elise, and I'd be happy to help with your issue.

    Could you try change your DNS server as described here:

    https://www.windowscentral.com/how-change-your-...

    Kind Regards,

    Elise

    Note: This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.

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  3. Anonymous
    2022-11-14T23:01:29+00:00

    Hi franco and thank you for your message. I followed your instructions but unfortunately, nothing changed. My desktop computer continues without internet connection. I have adapted and work fully with a laptop now, but for some things it would be really advantageous to get my desktop computer back and connected. :-( I have asked for professional help now.

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  4. Anonymous
    2022-10-17T15:02:27+00:00

    Hi Elise,

    thank you for your response. Unfortunately, changing the DNS server as described by the link you sent did not solve the issue and my computer continues without internet access.

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  5. franco d'esaro 24,991 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2022-11-15T08:29:27+00:00

    Hi Matthias Luthi .

    That network card, Intel i219-v was already pre-installed on PC or did you install it later?

    It seems that you also have another ethernet network card installed in your PC, what is the exact model? Try keeping the other network adapter disabled and then try again or vice versa.

    Did you buy this desktop PC or did you build it yourself?

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