Concentric Network Logo

Error Messages for Windows 95

Below are just of few of the possible error messages you may see at some point in your Web-surfing experiences.

When I try to connect, I get an error message that says, "COMx failed." I cannot get an outside line.

If your COM port is failing, chances are that it is improperly configured. Other possible reasons for getting this error include: your cable connecting your modem to your COM port also may be loose; you may have electromatic interference (appliances near by) or your phone line may be poor and full of static. For information on configuring your COM port, see the Handbook's section on "Configuring your Modem." For related problems, see the Handbook's Modem Troublshooting section.

When I try connecting, I get an error message that says, "System is down" or "No DNS Entry."

The most common reason for getting these error messages is that too many people are trying to access the same location at the same time. Other possible reasons include: your system is not connected to the internet (your phone line is not active), the server to which you are linking is down, you mistyped the URL to which you are trying to connect, the URL does not exist, or someone gave you bogus information on the link's address. Typically, if you try again during off hours -- being careful to type the URL, you'll have no trouble connecting (assuming it exists as you are typing it).

When I try to connect, I get an error message that says, "Can't find winsock.dll."

Your computer uses the Winsock program to help it figure out how to connect to Concentric Network's server. It works with the TCP/IP protocol settings you set when you configured your Dial-up Networking and TCP/IP in Windows 95. If you get this message, chances are that you have not properly installed these programs in Windows 95. Unfortunately, the solution is to install them now. For details, see the Handbook's TCP/IP section on "Configuring your Dialer."

Once I'm connected, I get an error message that says, "404 Not Found. The requested URL was not found on this server."

This error message typically means the specific document or entire URL you requested either does not exist or is protected from public view. Check your sources!

Once I'm connected, I get an error message that says, "Netscape is busy. Try again later."

With the Web's popularity comes lots of people trying to access the same location at the same time. Try connecting during off hours.

[Back to the Handbook Home Page / Intro to the Web / Intro to Concentric Network]

[Connecting to Concentric Network / Troubleshooting / Talk to Us / Launch Me to the Network!]