“System 53 Error Has Occurred” Error on Windows 10/11

Windows is a widely used operating system, boasting over one billion active users. Its popularity stems from its user-friendly features, notably the capability to connect computers via a network.

While it’s such a handy feature, a lot of Windows users reportedly encountered the “System 53 Error Has Occurred” error. So, what’s this issue all about and can it be resolved?

In this article, we will share the most common reasons that trigger this error. We will also provide you with viable fixes. As long as you follow the solutions properly, you can surely get rid of the problem.

What Is “System 53 Error Has Occurred” Error on Windows 10/11?

When a Windows user tries to establish a connection to a network using the net use command or through the Map Network Drive, the error code 53 may show. This means that the network path was not found by the system. This error occurs because no DNS name resolution was performed. It can also show if a machine is not properly registered with the server.

What Causes “System 53 Error Has Occurred” Error on Windows 10/11?

Below are some possible factors that can trigger the error:

• Connection problem – It is possible that two computers are not properly connected or the network they are connected to is having problems. It could be in the router, ethernet cable, or in the network configuration.
• Background apps and processes – Some background processes and applications can keep the connection from being properly established. As a result, important system functions are disturbed, and this could include the networking function.
• Security software issues – Sometimes, the security software program installed on either of the computers is preventing the connection from being successfully established.
• Disabled sharing – The sharing of folders and files between a computer might be disabled by the network card or the computer itself. However, this can be easily configured and enabled in the Control Panel.
• Incorrect execution of shared folder command – Like many users, the issue can be triggered by an incorrect execution of the shared folder command.

What to Do About “System 53 Error Has Occurred” Error on Windows 10/11?

Now that you have fully understood what causes the error message to appear, we will share with you some ways to resolve it. We suggest implementing the solutions in the recommended order to avoid having problems.

Here are several ways on how to fix “System 53 Error Has Occurred” error on Windows 10/11:

Solution #1: Use the correct command

As mentioned above, the error may surface when you execute the wrong command. Make sure that the command displays the address of the folder and the server to be shared. They need to be separated in commas.

For a clearer guide on what to do, follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows + R keys to launch the Run utility.
2. Input cmd and hit Enter to open the Command Prompt.
3. Type the net use F: “\\server\share name” command.
4. Hit Enter.
5. Check if the issue persists after entering the command.

Solution #2: Run a Ping Test

The best way to confirm that you are experiencing a network server problem is to perform a ping test. Make sure the server responds to the ping.

To perform a ping test, do the following:

1. Press the Windows + R keys to launch the Run tool.
2. Input cmd into the text field and hit Enter.
3. Type the ping (IP address of the server) command and hit Enter.
4. If you get a reply, then it means that your network is properly set up. Otherwise, your connection is not set up correctly. Troubleshoot the problem according to the result of the test.

Solution #3: Disable your security software

If the ping test returns a good response and the server is detected, try to disable your security software first. It is possible that it is causing the problem.

There are instances when the installed antivirus on your computer will keep you from accessing a folder saved on a network. In this case, disable your antivirus and check if the folder can be accessed on the network.

To disable your antivirus software, do the following:

1. Go to Start and select Settings.
2. Navigate to Update and Security and choose Windows Security.
3. Next, go to Virus and Threat Protection and click Manage Settings.
4. Now, switch off real-tome protection. Take note though, scheduled scans will still continue to run.

In addition to disabling the security software, you may also try disabling the firewall. To do so, refer to the guide below:

1. Navigate to your computer’s configuration folder and select Administrative.
2. Choose Templates and click Network.
3. Select Network Connections and then choose Windows Firewall Profile.
4. In this section, disable the Protect All Network Connections Policy setting.

Solution #4: Enable file sharing

The sharing of files between computers might also be temporarily disabled, hence the error message. To fix this, change the settings and enable file sharing between devices. Here’s how:

1. Press the Windows + R keys to launch the Run utility.
2. Input control panel and hit Enter to launch it.
3. Select Network and Internet Settings and hit the Network and Sharing Center button.
4. Click Change Advanced Sharing Settings.
5. Tap on the All Dropdowns section and tick the Turn On Network Discovery and the Turn On Printer and File Sharing options. Make sure to enable these options for the Guest and Private Networks as well.
6. Hit the Apply button to save the changes.
7. Close the window and check if the issue persists.

Solution #5: Boot in Safe Mode

In this solution, you will have to launch your computer in Safe Mode. And from here, you may check if an application is causing the problem. Here’s how to do that:

1. Restart your computer and hit F8 successively.
2. Wait for the boot options screen to show and choose Advanced Boot Options.
3. Choose Safe Mode with Networking and wait for your computer to boot up.
4. Check if the problem exists in this mode. If it doesn’t, this means that a background application is causing the issue. So, disable all your applications one at a time and check if the issue goes away. If you have found the faulty application, you have the option to uninstall it or have it disabled.

Solution #6: Check if the NetBIOS protocol is active

A disabled NetBIOS protocol can also trigger the error message to show. To enable this protocol on your Windows device, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Start menu.
2. Navigate to Network.
3. Click Network and Sharing Center and select Manage Network Connections.
4. Right-click on the Local Area Connection option or the connection you are currently using.
5. Select Properties and click Internet Protocol Version4 (TCP/IPv4).
6. Hit the Advanced button and navigate to the General tab.
7. Click WINS and exit the window.

Solution #7: Run a malware scan

Malicious components are notorious for causing system errors like “System Error 53 Has Occurred.” So, we cannot rule out the possibility that the system error that you’re seeing is caused by a malware entity or a virus.

To get rid of viruses and malware entities, you may run a malware scan automatically or manually. If you choose to run an automatic malware scan, you need to install a reputable antivirus software program. And then, run a complete scan and follow the suggested fixes. Consider using this reliable antivirus software program.

And then, run a complete scan and follow the suggested fixes. Most of the time, you will be given the option to quarantine the malicious entity or get rid of it completely.

Should you prefer to run a manual scan, you will need the help of Windows Defender. And just like performing an automatic virus scan, you will be asked whether you wish to remove the problematic entity or quarantine it. The decision is up to you.

For a guide on how to use Windows Defender, follow these steps:

1. Click the Start menu.
2. Into the search field, type windows defender. Click on the most relevant search result.
3. At this point, you will be asked to check for updates. If you wish to do so, click the Check for Updates Now button.
4. Now, you may proceed with the performing a complete scan by clicking the Scan button.
5. Windows Defender will now scan your computer and notify you if any malicious entity or process is found.
6. Once done, restart your PC and check if the error message persists.

Wrapping Up

Many users may encounter the “System Error 53 Has Occurred” error when using a computer connected to a network. This error may arise due to a connection issue or problematic background applications. It can also appear because of incorrect share folder settings or limitations set by the security software. But the good news is that it can be easily resolved.

By using the correct command or by running a ping test, you can identify what’s causing the problem. From there, you can troubleshoot. If it doesn’t work, you can also try disabling your security software like what other Windows users did.

Now, if you know other solutions that can resolve the “System Error 53 Has Occurred” error on Windows 10/11, please do share them below!