How To Fix 'Network Protocol Missing' Error

The 'Network Protocol Missing' error or a variation of the message, usually means that the user will be unable to share files or data between devices on the network or will even be unable to connect to the Internet at all. This error message typically appears when running the Windows Network Diagnostics. If you notice the issue, the first step is to check if the problem doesn't stem from your ISP (Internet Service Provider). The easiest way to determine if this is the case is to see if other devices connected to the same network are operating properly. If the problem is on your device, definitely, then try the solutions listed below and see if any of them could help resolve it. 

Restore Default Settings

Let's start by resetting the TCP/IP stack. This will restore the default settings of the network protocols on the system. 

1. Type command prompt in the search field on the Taskbar.
2. Right-click the top result and select 'Run as administrator.'
3. In the Command Prompt window, type the following commands and press Enter after each one to execute it:

netsh int ip set dns

netsh winsock reset 

4. Close Command Prompt.

Reinstall the Network Adapter Driver

A malfunctioning network driver could result in the appearance of the 'Network Protocol Missing' error. By uninstalling the current driver, we can force the Windows OS to make a fresh install.

1. Type device manager in the search field on the Taskbar.
2. Open the top result. 
3. In the Device Manager window, locate 'Network Adapters' and expand the section by clicking on the node icon in front of it.
4. Right-click on your network device.
5. Choose 'Uninstall' from the available options.
6. Confirm your choice. 
7. Restart the PC.

Restore Network Components

1. Type command prompt in the search field on the Taskbar.
2. Right-click the top result and pick 'Run as administrator' from the available options. 
3. In the elevated Command Prompt window, type the following commands in turn and press Enter after each one to execute it:

ipconfig /release

ipconfig /flushdns

ipconfig /renew

4. Close Command Prompt.