Reinstall the TCP/IP stack in Windows XP

With all the malware infecting computers over the Internet, some crafty types have successfully modified the Winsock networking stack in Windows. This can cause many problems, including disrupting network connectivity and performance problems. Windows XP SP2 made such reinstalls simple by issuing the following at a command prompt:

netsh winsock reset

You can also rebuild the key and bring it back to default status. However, any program that has added or modified layered service providers (LSP) those programs need to be reinstalled. But if needed, this can save a reinstall of the entire system. Issue the following at a command prompt:

netsh winsock reset catalog

If you are on an earlier version of Windows, however, there isn't a commandline tool. Here are the manual steps required:

If you're not using XP, uninstall TCP/IP by going to the LAN adapter properties (found in the Network and Dial-Up Connections in Windows 2000). Highlight TCP/IP and click the uninstall button from the LAN properties page.
Now open the registry editor (Start > Run > regedit)
Locate the following two keys and delete them:
HKLM\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\Winsock
HKLM\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\Winsock2
Restart the computer so that the system reinserts the above registry keys.
Now reinstall TCP/IP by going back to the LAN adapter properties. Click Install, choose Protocol, and then click the Add button. Choose the Have Disk button and select C:\Windows\Inf (substitute as needed for your system root). Then choose TCP/IP and complete the install.

Once finished, network connectivity should be restored. More information can be found in MSKB 811259.

aurousTECH

Aurous's personal knowledgebase of tech tips, problem resolution, install procedures, and customizations for Windows and Mac systems.

Wednesday, October 19, 2005