RPC Server Is Unavailable: Fixes That Work

The “RPC server is unavailable” error appears when Windows cannot reach the Remote Procedure Call (RPC) service, which is essential for many system functions. This guide explains the most common causes and provides step-by-step fixes to restore normal operation.

What Is the RPC Service?

RPC (Remote Procedure Call) is a Windows mechanism that allows programs to request services from other programs on the same computer or across a network. The RPC Endpoint Mapper (RpcSs) service keeps track of which ports and endpoints are assigned to which applications. When this service is stopped, disabled, or its dependencies fail, you’ll see the “RPC server is unavailable” error in various contexts—like when opening Device Manager, using Windows Update, or accessing network shares.

Why Does This Error Occur?

The error typically stems from one of these issues:

• The RPC service is stopped or disabled
• The RPC Endpoint Mapper (RpcSs) service is not running
• The Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Locator service is disabled (needed for some domain operations)
• Network connectivity problems, especially with firewall rules blocking RPC ports
• Corrupted system files or registry entries
• Malware that has disabled the service

How to Fix the RPC Server Unavailable Error

Follow these steps in order, as they progress from simple to more advanced.

Step 1: Check and Start the RPC Services

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Scroll to Remote Procedure Call (RPC). Its status should be “Running” and startup type “Automatic”.
3. If it’s not running, right-click and select Start. If the option is grayed out, check the DCOM Server Process Launcher service—it must be running too.
4. Also verify RPC Endpoint Mapper is running and set to Automatic.
5. Restart the services if they are running but still causing issues.

Step 2: Repair the RPC Service Registry Keys

If the service won’t start, the registry entries may be corrupted. Use the built-in System File Checker:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator (search “cmd”, right-click, “Run as administrator”).
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. Wait for it to complete.
3. Then run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth to fix Windows image issues.
4. Restart your computer.

Step 3: Check Firewall and Network Settings

RPC uses dynamic ports (49152–65535) and TCP/UDP 135 for the endpoint mapper. If you’re on a private network, ensure Windows Defender Firewall allows “Remote Assistance” and “Remote Volume Management” (if needed). For domain networks, your administrator may need to open these ports. Try temporarily disabling the firewall (if safe) to test if it’s the cause.

Step 4: Perform a Clean Boot

Third-party software can interfere with RPC. To isolate:

1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. Go to the Services tab, check “Hide all Microsoft services”, then click “Disable all”.
3. Go to the Startup tab and click “Open Task Manager”. Disable all startup items.
4. Restart. If the error is gone, re-enable services one by one to find the culprit.

Step 5: Use System Restore or Reset

If the error started recently, a system restore point can roll back changes. If that fails, consider a Windows repair install (using the Media Creation Tool) to keep files while fixing system files.

Common Scenarios and Specific Fixes

The error appears in different places, and the fix may vary:

• Device Manager shows the error when opening properties: restart the RPC service and check the Plug and Play service.
• Windows Update fails: run the Windows Update troubleshooter, then check the RPC service.
• Network shares inaccessible: ensure the Server service (LanmanServer) is running, and RPC over named pipes is enabled.
• Microsoft Management Console (MMC) snap-ins: run as administrator and check the RPC service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does “RPC server is unavailable” appear on startup?

It usually means the RPC service is set to start manually or is disabled. Check services.msc and set both “Remote Procedure Call (RPC)” and “RPC Endpoint Mapper” to Automatic, then restart.

Can I fix this without admin rights?

No, starting services and editing registry requires administrator privileges. If you’re on a work computer, contact your IT department.

Is this error a sign of malware?

Sometimes. Malware can disable RPC to prevent security tools from working. If the error persists after fixing services, run a full antivirus scan.

What if the RPC service is missing from services.msc?

This is rare but indicates a corrupted Windows installation. Run sfc /scannow and DISM as described, or perform a repair install.

Does this error affect Windows 11 and Windows 10 the same way?

Yes, the RPC service behaves identically. The steps above apply to both, though Windows 11 may have slightly different menu wording.

How do I restart the RPC service if it’s stuck?

In services.msc, right-click the service and select “Restart”. If it’s stuck, you may need to end the process (svchost.exe hosting RPC) via Task Manager, but be careful—this can cause instability. A reboot is often safer.

Preventing Future Occurrences

To minimize the chance of recurrence:

• Keep Windows updated
• Run regular malware scans
• Avoid using “optimizer” tools that may disable services
• Ensure your firewall allows RPC on trusted networks

If the error persists after all steps, consider a Windows repair installation or contacting a professional. The RPC service is foundational, so a corrupted system may need more extensive repair.

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