system error 53
Moderate
Microsoft · Windows
Network path not found — Windows cannot locate the specified computer or shared resource on the network
Quick Answer
Error code System Error 53 on your Microsoft Windows means: Network path not found — Windows cannot locate the specified computer or shared resource on the network. This is usually fixable — see the step-by-step guide below.
Affected Models
Applies to all models
Likely Causes
How to Fix It
1
Verify the target computer is powered on and connected to the same network — try pinging it by IP address: ping 192.168.x.x
2
If ping by IP works but not by name, it is a DNS/name resolution issue. Try accessing the share by IP: \\192.168.x.x\sharename
3
On the target computer, enable Network Discovery: Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Advanced sharing settings > Turn on network discovery
4
Ensure File and Printer Sharing is enabled on the target: same settings path as above
5
Check Windows Firewall on the target: allow 'File and Printer Sharing' through the firewall for your network profile (Private)
6
Verify SMB is enabled: open PowerShell as Admin on the target and run: Get-SmbServerConfiguration — check EnableSMB2Protocol is True
7
Flush DNS on your machine: open Command Prompt as Admin and run: ipconfig /flushdns
Pro Tip
This fix requires some technical knowledge. If you're unsure about any step, consider contacting support or a qualified technician.
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