Quick Summary
Error code 0x80072ee2 indicates a timeout issue when Windows is trying to connect to a server. This usually means that the computer could not establish a connection with the server within a specified timeframe.
Common Causes
- Internet Connection Problems: A faulty or unstable internet connection can prevent Windows from accessing the necessary servers.
- Firewall Interference: The Windows Firewall or a third-party firewall may be blocking the connection to the server.
- Proxy Server Settings: Incorrect proxy server settings can disrupt the connection process.
- DNS Resolution Issues: Problems with DNS resolution can prevent the computer from finding the server's IP address.
- Server Unavailability: The server that the computer is trying to connect to might be temporarily unavailable or experiencing issues.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Check Internet Connection
Step 1: Ensure your Ethernet cable is properly connected or that your Wi-Fi connection is stable.
Step 2: Try browsing the web to confirm internet access.
Step 3: If you are using Wi-Fi, try restarting your router/modem.
Step 4: Contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) if the issue persists.
Method 2: Disable Firewall Temporarily
Step 1: Press the Windows key, type 'Windows Defender Firewall', and select it.
Step 2: Click 'Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off' in the left pane.
Step 3: Under 'Private network settings' and 'Public network settings', select 'Turn off Windows Defender Firewall (not recommended)'.
Step 4: Try the operation again. If it works, add an exception for the program/service causing the error.
Note: Re-enable the firewall immediately after testing, as leaving it disabled is a security risk.
Method 3: Check Proxy Settings
Step 1: Press the Windows key, type 'Internet Options', and select it.
Step 2: Go to the 'Connections' tab.
Step 3: Click 'LAN Settings'.
Step 4: Ensure that 'Automatically detect settings' is checked and 'Use a proxy server for your LAN' is unchecked (unless you intentionally use a proxy).
Step 5: Click 'OK' and restart your computer.
Method 4: Flush DNS and Reset TCP/IP
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as an administrator (search for 'cmd', right-click, and select 'Run as administrator').
Step 2: Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each one:
ipconfig /flushdnsnbtstat -Rnbtstat -RRnetsh winsock resetnetsh int ip reset
Step 3: Restart your computer.
Method 5: Run the Windows Network Troubleshooter
Step 1: Press the Windows key, type 'Troubleshooting', and select 'Troubleshoot settings'.
Step 2: Click 'Additional troubleshooters'.
Step 3: Select 'Internet Connections' and click 'Run the troubleshooter'.
Step 4: Follow the on-screen instructions.