How to fix
Error 0x80070043 – The network name cannot be found
on Windows

I can't access my files from Dropbox on my PC because I keep receiving the error code 0x80070043. The message says, "The network name cannot be found." How do I go around this?

External storage solutions like Dropbox and OneDrive have become integral to the modern computing experience, especially for users of the Windows operating system. These cloud-based services allow for the storage and retrieval of files from virtually anywhere, providing an essential bridge between local and remote data access.

As smooth as this integration often appears, it's not without its potential problems. A common issue that Windows users may encounter is the inability to access their files stored on these external servers. This problem is typically signified by the error code 0x80070043, accompanied by the message "The network name cannot be found."

This error primarily arises when Windows is unable to establish a connection with the external server where the files are stored. The causes can be varied, ranging from network connectivity issues to incorrect network configurations. Sometimes, it's as simple as a typo in the server name or an issue with the network path being used to access the files. In other instances, the problem could stem from Windows security settings or firewall configurations that block access to the server. Misconfigurations in the Windows Registry can also lead to this error, as can outdated or corrupt network drivers.

When faced with the 0x80070043 error, it's important to consider these various factors. Checking the accuracy of the server name and the network path is a fundamental step. Ensuring that your network connection is stable and that the server you're trying to access is online can also be crucial. Additionally, reviewing the security settings and firewall rules on your Windows machine to ensure they aren't overly restrictive may help resolve the issue. It's also worthwhile to consider the status of your network drivers and whether they need updating.

In cases where the underlying cause is not immediately apparent, employing a PC repair tool can be an effective approach. Such tools are designed to automatically diagnose and fix a range of Windows issues, potentially resolving error 0x80070043 without the need for in-depth technical troubleshooting.

Fix 1. Run network troubleshooter

The network troubleshooter in Windows is a built-in tool that helps identify and resolve network-related issues. It can detect problems with network connectivity, incorrect settings, or other issues that might prevent your computer from accessing network resources.

• Right-click on Start and pick Settings.
• Go to Network & Internet section.
• On the right side, find the Advanced network settings section.
• Click Network troubleshooter and wait.
• The fixes will be automatically applied.

Fix 2. Perform SFC and DISM scans

System File Checker and Deployment Image Servicing and Management are tools that scan and repair corrupted system files and Windows image files, respectively. They can resolve issues caused by file corruption that might lead to network errors.

• Type cmd in Windows search.
• Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
• When UAC shows up, click Yes.
• Type this command and press Enter:
  sfc /scannow
• Wait for the scan to finish.
• Then, use the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
• Reboot your system.

Fix 3. Enable "Always wait for the network at computer startup and logon" in Group Policy

This setting ensures that Windows waits for the network connection to be established before logging in, which can help resolve network-related errors encountered during startup.

• Type Group Policy in Windows search and press Enter.
• Navigate to the following location:
  Local Computer Policy > Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Logon
• On the right side, locate and double-click the Always wait for the network at computer startup and logon option.
• Here, select Enabled and click OK.

If you do not have Group Policy available due to your version of Windows, check out our guide on how to enable Group Policy in Windows.

Fix 4. Reset your internet

Resetting your internet can resolve issues with your network connection by renewing your IP address and clearing your DNS cache.

• Right-click on Start and pick Settings.
• Go to Network & Internet section.
• On the right side, find the Advanced network settings section.
• Select the Network reset option and follow the prompts to complete the process.
• Restart your device.

Fix 5. Temporarily disable Firewall

Sometimes, the Windows Firewall can block network connections. Temporarily disabling it can help determine if it's the cause of the error.

• Type in Control Panel in Windows search and press Enter.
• Go to System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
• Press the Turn Windows Firewall On or Off option.
• If required, enter your administrator password and press OK.
• Then, set the Windows Firewall off of both private and public network.
• Click OK to save the changes and close everything.

Fix 6. Use System Restore

System Restore can revert your system back to a previous state where the error might not have existed.

• Type in Create a restore point in Windows search and hit Enter.
• Go to System Restore and click Next.
• Mark the Show more restore points option (if available).
• Pick the time when the problem did not exist and click Next.
• Finalize the process - your PC will restart.

Fix 7. Update Network Drivers

The easiest way to update drivers is by letting an automated tool such as [rev id="DriverFix"] do it for you. Alternatively, you can download the driver manually or employ Windows update feature.

• Type Device Manager in Windows search and press Enter.
• Locate and expand the Network adapters section.
• Right-click on your Network adapter and select Update driver.
• Pick Search automatically for drivers and wait.
• Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your device once done.