Other reasons might be admin restrictions or reserved port ranges. In this article, we will discuss different ways to solve this error.
1. Disable Internet Connection Sharing
When multiple services or apps try to use the same network resource, conflicts can happen, causing the socket access error. Disabling Internet Connection Sharing ensures no other process is using or reserving the needed ports, allowing your app to access them correctly again.
1.1 Disable Internet Connection Sharing via Control Panel
1.2 Disable the Internet Connection Sharing Service
2. Uninstall any third-party Antivirus or Whitelisting the Connection
Sometimes, security software blocks safe connections by mistake. Removing third-party antivirus or allowing the application through a whitelist helps the software access the network without problems, preventing errors. You can typically resolve this issue by whitelisting the blocked connection in your antivirus settings. Keep in mind that the steps to set up a whitelist rule will vary depending on your security solution.
You can check our detailed guide on how to uninstall antivirus here.
3. Add an Exclusion to the Windows Firewall
When Windows Firewall blocks a program, it can’t access the network resources it needs, leading to errors. Adding an exception for the program tells the firewall to trust it and allow its network activity, bypassing the restrictions causing the socket access problem.
4. Restart the Internet Information Services (IIS)
Restarting the Internet Information Services (IIS) clears all active connections and fixes any port conflicts causing the error. This helps IIS start with the right settings, letting applications access the needed ports again.
5. Perform a System Restore
Rolling back your system to an earlier state can fix problems caused by recent changes. System Restore brings back important system files and settings to a time before the error appeared, helping to solve conflicts from recent software or setting changes.
6. Disconnect from the VPN network
Sometimes, VPN connections use specific ports that can interfere with the application trying to access the same resources. Disconnecting from the VPN network can resolve this issue, allowing the needed ports to be used without problems.
