Unidentified Network appears every Windows 7 reboot and stops NW access
I have an HP Pavillion PC which had Windows Vista Home Premium with all patches up to date. I upgraded to Windows 7 last weekend and ever since every time I reboot NW access fails. In Network Sharing there are 2 networks "Network 2" and "Unidentified Network". I have to disable the NW Adapter and enable each time to get rid of the"Unidentified Network" and recover NW access. How can I fix this?
November 7th, 2009 2:05pm

Same here i have the evga 780 mb. Windows 7 ultimate. i had no problems with W7rc!
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
November 7th, 2009 5:36pm

Hiwhen you reboot and the unkown network is present go into open network and sharing centre (right click on network taskbar icon) then select change adapter settings. THer should be 2 adapters as you have said unidentified and network 2. highlight the one which is incorrect and choose disable this network device at the top of the screen. Now if you reboot is all correct. You may need to do a power up sequence on your modem/router first.malc
November 7th, 2009 10:19pm

Hi, You can also try the following steps to troubleshoot the issue. 1. Bypass the router and connect to cable modem directly for a test. Do you need disable Local Area Connection now? If so, please let me know. Otherwise, please upgrade the router firmware and then connect to router again. 2. Temporarily turn off firewall on the machine and router (If it has). 3. Upgrade the NIC driver. 4. Restart the computer to Safe Mode with Networking to check the result. 5. Configure the connection to obtain an IP address automatically ======================================= a. Click "Start", input "NCPA.CPL" (without quotation marks) to Start Search bar and press "Enter". b. Right-click the network connection and click "Properties". If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation. c. Click to highlight "Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)" and click "Properties". d. Check "Obtain an IP address automatically" and "Obtain DNS server address automatically". e. Click "OK". f. Click to highlight "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)" and click "Properties". g. Check "Obtain an IP address automatically" and "Obtain DNS server address automatically". h. Click "OK". i. Reboot the computer. What's the result now? Thanks, Novak
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
November 9th, 2009 5:55am

Same problem!!!... none with Windows 7 RC (using it now on a notebook) but after installing windows 7 get the unidentified network error. I called the ISP comcast, strong signal to modem, wife connects with hardwire okay on her PC, I'm connected on notebook via wireless connection, swapped out cables... reset everything... NOTHING!!!... Help
November 9th, 2009 9:14pm

i did exactly what you said Novak... NOTHING!!!... Windows 7 is turning out to be a PIECE of... er.. uh... Work (to put it politely)
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
November 9th, 2009 9:16pm

I have the same problem with Vista and 2008 Server.The issue is that the ROUTE table contains a phantom persistent default route 0.0.0.0 to one of the network interface cards. Thisactivates the "Unidentified Network" (Public) every time the network connection becomes active. Sharing permissions are turned off.My solution is to use the Windows Command Screen as Administrator and remove all default routes. ROUTE DELETE 0.0.0.0This removes the default routes from all network interfaces. You must then reapply the necessary default routes to your interfaces (Do not use address of the network adapter as the default). If you have an isolated network (without any router, firewall, or gateway) with more than one computer -- I do this in a development laboratory -- is to choose for default addressfor Vista, 2008, Win-7, to be the IPv4 address of any other attached network interface.I don't know why Microsoft deciced to make the default routes 0.0.0.0 persist in the routing table instead of just being bound to the network adapter. The network stack used by XP, 2000, 2003 systems do not have this problem.I hope this helps!Good systems are supportable
November 9th, 2009 10:03pm

Hi thereReally sorry I haven't got back yet. I am on business but as soon as I get a chance probably Friday I shall try your advice. I really appreciate the responses.Thanks very much.Stuart
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
November 10th, 2009 12:01am

I have the same problem with Vista and 2008 Server.The issue is that the ROUTE table contains a phantom persistent default route 0.0.0.0 to one of the network interface cards. Thisactivates the "Unidentified Network" (Public) every time the network connection becomes active. Sharing permissions are turned off.My solution is to use the Windows Command Screen as Administrator and remove all default routes. ROUTE DELETE 0.0.0.0This removes the default routes from all network interfaces. You must then reapply the necessary default routes to your interfaces (Do not use address of the network adapter as the default). If you have an isolated network (without any router, firewall, or gateway) with more than one computer -- I do this in a development laboratory -- is to choose for default addressfor Vista, 2008, Win-7, to be the IPv4 address of any other attached network interface.I don't know why Microsoft deciced to make the default routes 0.0.0.0 persist in the routing table instead of just being bound to the network adapter. The network stack used by XP, 2000, 2003 systems do not have this problem.I hope this helps! Good systems are supportable this was the solution for me. very nice. thanks
November 10th, 2009 9:45pm

Steve Hathaway, You are a GENIUS!! Thank you for the spot-on resolution!!
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
November 18th, 2009 6:30am

Hi SteveFinally got around to looking at this. Thanks for your response. Can you just help me a bit though? I don't know how to "reapply the necessary default routes " to my router. Do you have any simple instructions for this?ThanksStukalee
November 22nd, 2009 3:35pm

Hi SteveI have applied the fix you recommended. I have done ROUTE DELETE 0.0.0.0. ROUTE PRINT showed that the route was no longer there. However, unfortunately, upon reboot the unidentified network reappears each time. Please can you help?ThanksStuart
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
December 10th, 2009 11:22am

Windows Vista *** Open the "Network and Sharing Center" - there are several ways to do this. Control Panel (Control Panel Home) Network and Internet View network status and tasks Control Panel (Classic View) Network and Sharing Center *** Examine the properties of the Local Area Connection Connection "Local Area Connection" View Status or Manage Network Connections Local Area Connection *** Select Properties -> Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) IF YOU GET YOUR IP DYNAMICALLY VIA DHCP The DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server should be connected to the same switch or hub as your "Local Area Connection" interface adapter. IF YOU MUST SPECIFY YOUR OWN IP ADDRESS Choose an IP address for your "Local Area Connection" i.e. 192.168.2.101 Specify a network mask (i.e. 255.255.255.0) Enter a default gateway IP address: This is the IP address of your Internet router or network access firewall. If you are on a closed-isolated network, choose any available IP address of something on your local network (i.e. printer) BUT NOT THE SAME ADDRESS you use for the "Local Area Connection"Good systems are supportable
December 11th, 2009 1:37am

I'm no expert, but "unidentified network" seems to just mean that Windows 7 sees a LAN on that network card. It sounds like an error, and is annoying, but as far as I can tell it isn't an error. (Unless you're getting it on a network adapter that DOES or SHOULD have an internet connection.) Our LAN has worked fine as an "unidentified network" under Vista and now Windows 7. For some reason, Microsoft doesn't seem to have provided way to name (identify) a LAN, and didn't realize people would think it meant there was an error.Denise Moore ---- 2 HP a1730n Pavillion Desktops, AMD 64 X 2 5000+/5600+, 3072/2048 800MHz DDR2, 4 GB ReadyBoost, 320 GB HDD, Nvidia 6150LE, D-Link DGE-530T NIC, D-Link Green DGS-1005B router, VersaExpress ADSL, Win 7 Home Premium
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
December 15th, 2009 11:21am

I too had this problem. After searching alot of forums I found the culprit to be Adobe CS3. Some people say it's Photoshop, some say it's Dreamweaver. I don't know which one since I have the full Master Collection installed. Anyway, the solution for me was to disable a startup service. Run MsConfig -> Services Disable the service called "##Id_String1.6844[... and then a bunch of numbers]" Reboot system. I have no idea what this is or what it does, but my computer is fine for now.
December 18th, 2009 1:24am

Strange, as neither of those programs should affect one's network. Dreamweaver is webpage/website designer. Photoshop is for photo editing. Denise Moore ---- 2 HP a1730n Pavillion Desktops, AMD 64 X 2 5000+/5600+, 3072/2048 800MHz DDR2, 4 GB ReadyBoost, 320 GB HDD, Nvidia 6150LE, D-Link DGE-530T NIC, D-Link Green DGS-1005B router, VersaExpress ADSL, Win 7 Home Premium
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
December 18th, 2009 7:31am

Hi DeniseThis may be so but when I have my Home Network and the Unidentified Network I cannot get onto the Internet. I have to disable the adapter and enable to get rid of the Unidentified Network and then I can get access.RegardsStuart
December 18th, 2009 12:24pm

Hi SteveThanks for getting back and sorry to pester but I didn't understand your instructions after "-> Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)". The properties I have are set to:Obtain IP address automaticallyObtain DNS server address automaticallyI don't understand how to find out whether DHCP "is connected to the same switch". My NW config is quite simple. I have 3 computers connected to 1 switch which connects to the BT Broadband Router. The switch is just a switch. My computer had the network problem. My wife has a similar HP computer which I upgraded exactly the same way to Windows 7 and she has no problem. The other computer is a work laptop that I connect occasionally. That runs XP and never had a problem.Sorry to bother you but I have never been an expert in networks and would be really grateful for a little moer help if you can.Thanks for your patience. I really appreciate it.RegardsStuart
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
December 18th, 2009 12:31pm

I too get this error i notice that it has to do with my wireless connections , i have a total of 4 computers set up two hard wired and 2 laptops , when the laptops (wireless) are not on , i can boot up my hp , with windows 7 and no problems , the other cpu thats wired directly to the router is a xp no problems as soon as my wife signs ontp the network (with her vista laptop) if i reboot i get the unidentified network (public) error, I have to then disable the connection and troubleshoot it and it then reloads with no problems . its more of a nuisence then anything would like to have it corrected but if i cant get it fixed will just have to live with the inconvienience of disableing and enableing the adapters.
January 2nd, 2010 9:56pm

Thanks so much LarsTornqvist. Your fix worked for me as well. Maybe it has something to do with Adobe's update service.
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
January 3rd, 2010 12:38am

Hi LarsI seems that the Apple Bonjour service is the culprit, at least on my computer. Solution:Run msconfigSelect Services tabUncheck the service Bonjour ServiceSince I did this I have not had the problem and I have restarted the computer many times.Thanks Apple :-(RegardsStuart
January 6th, 2010 11:46am

OMG...I have been sitting here in tech support (h)ell for the last 5 days...everyone pointing the finger at the other. Took a look at this post, deleted the aforementioned Id_string and voila.....I'm on. Thank you Lars you are a prince !! I don't care why it works, the unidentified network is GONE and I can boot up and go directly online. Whhhooooo hooooooooooo!!THANKS - Susan
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
January 7th, 2010 7:29am

I sure would like to know what that string is and where it came from. Any ideas ???
January 7th, 2010 7:54am

Sorry, no idea but I am glad it works for you too
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
January 8th, 2010 5:27pm

I found that it would kick me off whenever Microsoft updates came through as well. I am guessing that the id_string is for the "upgrade" versions of CS3....it will block you from going online until you validate. I validated my upgrade version but WIN 7 is leaving that bit behind??? Siz
January 8th, 2010 6:02pm

Wow, thanks so much Lars. It worked for me as well. The service that had that name was listed as Apple Computer Inc for the manufacturer. I don't have itunes installed or quicktime. Wonder what that is. Anyway, thanks again!!Frank
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
January 9th, 2010 4:18am

I have been all over looking for the answer for this issue in my situation, and I now bang my head on the desk for being so stupid! So I will share my dumb discovery with you all :) I have a wired Ethernet network (two computers connected via crossover cable, one a Vista Home Premium computer and another a new Windows 7 Home Premium box) and a wireless network. I wanted to bridge the wireless and the wired together on the new Windows 7 Home Premium box (it has onboard Ethernet and a PCI wireless lan card), so that my wired Vista computer could enjoy internet access through the wireless router. Steve's answer was what helped me figure out the Eureka but its not what worked for me. Well, the Win7 box was showing my Ethernet as Unidentified Network, with all the issues that entails. No Internet joy on my Vista box. Oddly enough, my Vista box was showing the Private network correctly. What did I do wrong? I had the Default gateway on the Win7 box set to the same IP address as the nic, while I set the Vista computer to the IP address of the Win7 box, thinking that my Win7 box was the default gateway. No, this is wrong, as Steve said. But I tried his solution and it failed, when I experimented on my Vista box (I was too paranoid to touch my Win7 box!) my computer simply put the default 0.0.0.0 gateway back into the table upon reboot! So then I started thinking... hrmmm. This is what I did: Connect the two computers via ethernet crossover cable, and be sure both computers are assigned to the same workgroup as the wireless network computers are. First the Vista box. This is what I did to be sure I had a working Ethernet network before bridging on the Win7 box. in the Network and Sharing Center Manage network connections (click) right click and select properties on your Ethernet connection Click on IPv4 and set to this Set the IP address to 192.168.0.2 Subnet mask will be automatically given Set the Default gateway to 192.168.0.1 (the Windows 7 box) close. Win7 computer (the one with two NICs, one Wireless and one Ethernet, to bridge) Open the Network Sharing Center click on change adapter settings rightclick on local area connection (the Ethernet connection in my case) and click properties give the ethernet adapter these settings under IPv4 IP address: 192.168.0.1 (the subnet mask will automatically assign itself) default gateway: 192.168.0.2 (the IP of my Vista box connected via crossover cable) close Bang, Windows 7 comes right up asking me if its a home, work or public network. I click on Home, and am home free finally for Windows 7. (dont need the Homegroup stuff for Vista networking, cancelled out of that there) we are home free... bridge the ethernet to the wireless network now, by control clicking both connections and selecting Bridge connections. Bangup, we are bridged. Make sure that the Vista computer is visible in the network... it is, yay! Now to get the wireless router to recognise the Vista box and let it have the Internet. Over to the Vista box: in the Network and Sharing Center click Manage network connections again right click, properties for the Ethernet connection again click on IPv4 again Set to get its IP and DNS automatically. accept and close. Internet works now. This probably should solve most notebook issues when bridging a wired to a wireless network, however in my case these are two desktop computers side by side needing to share an internet connection through a larger wireless network in the house.
January 10th, 2010 3:26am

btw, disabling bonjour is a nonstarter for me, so I am glad it worked... I need Bonjour for modo (a 3d modelling and rendering application) as it uses it for network rendering.
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
January 10th, 2010 7:44pm

Dear hypatiaa: THANK YOU SO MUCH!! You cannot imagine how many hours and DAYS I spent trying to resolve this troublesome, inconvenient, unresolved, and buggy (I have more nasty adjectives but...) "unidentified network" issue! Anyhow, I follow your directions (after trying many other options...more than 12) just one minute before giving up and completely and compulsively and full of anger delete my Windows 7 and install back the XP Pro. As soon as I entered the default gateway number: 192.168.0.1 (the IP address of the other computer) and clicked OK...VOILÁ! BANG!!!!!! (as you wrote). I was so happy that I repeated the word BANG so many times...WOW! In my particular case, i had to go back to my other older computer (XP) and do the same but entering the DNS value address of the new one (W7) which is 192.168.1.2. I really appreciate it. By the way WHERE DID YOU GET THAT FIXING TRICK? I'm quite curious. You should be hired by MS with a GOOD salary. Publish your solution in ABC or CNN, since there are millions of "compu-nerds" becoming crazy about this unidentified network Win7's ''unattended" issue. MANY THANKS AGAIN!!!!!!!!
January 10th, 2010 11:47pm

I had the same problem when I rebuilt my Windows 7 system. I had CS3 installed on my system, it installs an old version of bonjour. If you inspect your program files\bonjour directory, see if you have an EXE and DLL file dated 2006. Jump over to apple's website and search for windows bonjour. I found the newer download here: http://support.apple.com/downloads/Bonjour_for_Windows Download and install this (you don't have to uninstall the old Bonjour) and reboot. This fixed my install and I no longer have the network error you describe. If you look at that folder now, you will have the newer DLLs (and some other gunk.)
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
January 22nd, 2010 2:44am

I upgraded to Windows 7 from XP (reformated disk/HP computer). I re-install MS Office, Quicken & other software and my internet connection works fine. On re-installing CS3 Web Premium, I maintain the ability to connect to internet up to the FINISH/FINISH & RESTART screen. With a restart, I loose the ability to see the internet. If I un-install CS3 and restart, my internet connection is restored. If I install all but Photoshop, Dreamworks, Illustrator, or Fireworks, I can go clear through the RESTART and still have my internet connection. If I install any of the four, I still have internet connection up to the FINISH/FINISH & RESTART screen. At restart I loose my internet connection. Customer Service/Tech Support gave no solution. Something must happen in the installation program at restart to reset some settings pointion to the internet but I known not what. Any ideas? I looked at a Windows 7 forum for CS3 problems and found several related to connection problems. One solution (Thanks PDX Prod Mgr) pointed Apple for support, a free product called Bonjour for Windows. (Perhaps Adobe uses an older version then 1.0.6 or something similar.) "Bonjour, also known as zero-configuration networking, enables automatic discovery of computers, devices, and services on IP networks. Bonjour uses industry standard IP protocols to allow devices to automatically discover each other without the need to enter IP addresses or configure DNS servers." (Quote from http://support.apple.com/downloads/Bonjour_for_Windows ) By installing this version of Bonjour, I was able to fully install and restart my machine and retain my connections.
January 24th, 2010 1:06am

hi i have the same problem i bought a laptop recently and windows 7 was already there , i have tried most of the fix tricks , but i couldn't find the id string or bonjour .. can any one tell me where can i find it and if i dont have it how can i fix this problem
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
February 7th, 2010 7:55am

Rupsy,Goto run line, type msconfig.Under the services tab, look for the service that has ##Id_string(bunch of numbers)...uncheck this service...reboot and see if that does it.Let me know if that does the trick. Worked for me.Frank
February 10th, 2010 9:00pm

Brilliant. After months of fighting with this issue your solution fixed everything. I had 3 computers running Windows 7 Pro 64. 2 had CS3 installed and had all kinds of network issues. The third didn't and worked fine. After following your advice and upgrading Bonjour everything is working great. Thanks so much.
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
February 14th, 2010 8:15pm

could someone explain to me like a child how to follow Steve Hathaway's advice? How do I delete these routes?
February 24th, 2010 5:39pm

Tinman, He didn't explicitly state it, but you have to open the equivalent to a MSDOS command prompt. Once you have that window open, you type in the "route" commands as needed. I created a desktop shortcut to : C:\windows\system32\cmd.exe I have a similar shortcut to windows explorer C:\windows\explorer.exe /n,/e, c:\ which opens up in the root of the C: drive. tom
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
February 24th, 2010 7:31pm

Hi TinmanNo disrespect to Steve but his proposal did not work for me.See my reply below:Hi LarsI seems that the Apple Bonjour service is the culprit, at least on my computer. Solution:Run msconfigSelect Services tabUncheck the service Bonjour ServiceSince I did this I have not had the problem and I have restarted the computer many times.Thanks Apple :-(RegardsStuartHope this works
February 24th, 2010 8:21pm

Using Windows 7 Home Premium I too get a ghost unidentified network (Bench icon) in parallel with my home network (House icon). I then disconnect the former and this puts a big 'X' icon through the pictogram of the PC to House physical link (if using physical Ethernet link). I then want to 'change [my] network settings' by selecting <Troubleshoot problems> and <Internet>. This usually gets rid of the ghost network by making the common sense selections: usually you are looking for a fix to re-establish the network. The above is my temporary basic fix for the above issue.
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
March 13th, 2010 1:06pm

hi , get a chat with the support staff from microsoft , they have some rather intresting tools click the link microsoft support below in my signature and follow , get a chat with the support staffhave a nice dayScan with OneCare + Support ENDING for windows Vista & XP ! + Plagued by the Privacy Center? REMOVE IT + Threat Research & Response Blog + Sysinternals Live tools + TRANSLATOR + Photosynth + Microsoft Security + Microsoft SUPPORT + PIVOT from Live Labs + Microsoft Live Labs + Get OFFICE 2010 FREE ! + Windows LIVE !
March 14th, 2010 11:13pm

Hi Tinman No disrespect to Steve but his proposal did not work for me. See my reply below: Hi Lars I seems that the Apple Bonjour service is the culprit, at least on my computer. Solution: Run msconfig Select Services tab Uncheck the service Bonjour Service Since I did this I have not had the problem and I have restarted the computer many times. Thanks Apple :-( Regards Stuart Hope this works I was just having this issue as part of a clean install and following these instructions fixed it for me. Thanks for the info!
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
May 3rd, 2010 6:15pm

Dreamweaver does have a built in FTP which might effect a network somehow or other since it's connecting to an Internet Server to transfer files?
June 13th, 2010 8:51am

On the contrary, Windows 7 DOES allow you to name a wired network which is where I believe my problem is coming from. It kept asking me to name it so I gave it the same name I did for the wireless network and now whenever I turn my computer on I can not access the Internet and I have TWO wired connections listed as being connected. "My Named Network" and "Unidentified Network Connection" (or similar, I forget what Windows names it.) Frustrating to have to disable and enable my NIC.
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
June 13th, 2010 8:53am

Thanks!!! I too was having this problem with Windows 7 Professional x64. This worked for me. Simple as Pie. As others have noted in this Thread Window's System Configuration lists this as an Apple service. I disabled this service and wah-la. No more two connections with no Internet service!!! Niceeee. The service that I stopped was: ##Id_String1.6844F930_1628_4223_B5CC_5BB94B879762##
June 13th, 2010 9:03am

I share your enthusiasm!!! It worked for me too!
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
June 13th, 2010 9:04am

I'm sure it was installed as a service to do with Apple's updates or similar. I'm almost sure it was installed with Quick Time player and/or iTunes.
June 13th, 2010 9:06am

Make sure your router firmware is up-to-date. We upgrade all the drivers in our PC for Windows 7 but forget to upgrade the router firmware. I upgraded my router firmware and all those unidentified network problems went away. It is much easier than forcing windows 7 to work with an out-dated router firmware. I wish this forgotten upgrade of the router is promulgated by Microsoft. Consequently many of us wasted a lot of time on this one.
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
July 2nd, 2010 5:37am

Thanks!!! I too was having this problem with Windows 7 Professional x64. This worked for me. Simple as Pie. As others have noted in this Thread Window's System Configuration lists this as an Apple service. I disabled this service and wah-la. No more two connections with no Internet service!!! Niceeee. The service that I stopped was: ##Id_String1.6844F930_1628_4223_B5CC_5BB94B879762## This worked great for me too!!! Glad I came here before I spent too much time trying to figure it out. I don't think I would have been to able figure this out on my own. Willi
July 2nd, 2010 7:03pm

Well, I have a similar issue and none of these solutions seems to work. I updated bonjour (had a 2008 version, I use itunes for an ipod), tried the route deal, nothing. Disabled bonjour, nothing. I connect directly to my cable modem via a switch (i get two IPs from my isp) and the XP machine Im typing this on works fine. The win7 machine just cannot get an IP from the modem. It can connect to the modem's status page but thats it. Nothing changed from last night, other than I started playing dragon age game (installed it 1+ month ago) last night before shutting down. Running a gigabyte ep45-ud30 mobo (dual gigabit realtek nics). This is getting insane. TIA for any ideas.
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
July 7th, 2010 12:05am

could someone explain to me like a child how to follow Steve Hathaway's advice? How do I delete these routes? The part of the Hathaway advice I don't know how to follow is "use the Windows Command Screen as Administrator" I am the sole user of this machine and as far as I know its Administrator. When I try to follow the ROUTES advice, though, I'm told I have to 'elevate.' I have now wasted a day of my life, after installing Win 7 some time ago, trying to use Ethernet to get internet access. The Ethernet adaptor on my motherboard no longer appears in Device Manager. I spent hours trying to figure that out, prowling boards etc., then gave up and followed the suggestion of getting a USB-ethernet adapter. Now when I plug that in I get "Undidentified Network," and have since wasted several hours on that. I am beginning to wish I had never upgraded to Windows 7. I have uninstalled Bonjour Service, but that does not seem to be it, in my case. --Jim
July 7th, 2010 3:32am

The part of the Hathaway advice I don't know how to follow is "use the Windows Command Screen as Administrator" I am the sole user of this machine and as far as I know its Administrator. When I try to follow the ROUTES advice, though, I'm told I have to 'elevate.' In the start menu go to all programs-> accessories then right click on Command Prompt and click run as Administrator.
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
July 7th, 2010 11:07pm

Dear Anybody reading this, I recently upgraded to Win 7 and started getting internet drop outs and then the unidentified network dispalyed. I finally sorted it out after much reading of forums and head scratching. This may not work for everybody but I found that when I was connecting to my Netgear DG834G router via my powerline network adaptors the problem would arise, connecting via wirless was OK though. My fix was to switch off IPV 6 in may adaptor conntion properties, real easy. I have since upgraded my router to a Netgear DGN3500 and through the powerline adaptors all is fine. When connected directly to the old router all was OK too, I can only assume that it is a combination of hardware that causes some not fully compliant IPV6 hardware to falll over. Anyway its a quick one to try so good luck to all. Regards Richard
July 21st, 2010 10:49pm

Hi All, OK...here is what worked for me...go to a command prompt as admin and type: netsh winsock reset Suddenly all networks that had been "unidentified" were able to be remarked as "home" or "work", etc. Can't take credit..found a post on another forum..but this needs to be spread far & wide. Cheers, Johnster.
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
July 22nd, 2010 12:47am

I too had this problem. After searching alot of forums I found the culprit to be Adobe CS3. Some people say it's Photoshop, some say it's Dreamweaver. I don't know which one since I have the full Master Collection installed. Anyway, the solution for me was to disable a startup service. Run MsConfig -> Services Disable the service called "##Id_String1.6844[... and then a bunch of numbers]" Reboot system. I have no idea what this is or what it does, but my computer is fine for now. I have Windows 7 Ultimate and this happened on both 32bit and 64bit. By removing the Service, it worked perfectly! Very strange for an adobe product to do this however, I noticed it was from Apple computer, so possibly 3rd party!
August 13th, 2010 2:09pm

Id_String1.6844F930_1628_4223_B5CC_5BB94B879762 You can remove that completely , or u can do the simple way of going into services and disabling it. It is Bonjours mDNSresponder.exe . Bonjour is Apple's open source implementation of zero-configuration networking software. Comes with CS3, Illustrator, iTunes etc. That allows the respective program to "phone home" so to speak. Communicate with its home page, or affiliates. It also , checks are your local network for files, videos, songs, etc. that can be compatible with the specific program your using that involves this service. My understanding of the reason why this is causing the Unidentified Network goes as follows I believe it (mDNSresponder.exe /Id string 1.6xxxx etc) is trying to send and receive data immediately after your computer starts up, and since it takes most computers NICs a few seconds after booting to actually get synced and ready to go, the mDNSresponder service cannot locate a network to use to communicate in and out of it. So it errors, and thinks you do not have an active network. So when your network card does become ready for use, it is already buried or in conflict with the 'unidentified network' that was essentially created by the service in question (Bonjours Mdnsresponder.exe Id_String1.6844F930_1628_4223_B5CC_5BB94B879762) So disabling that service or deleting it entirely makes sense that you would no longer get the Unidentied network error because the program for example CS3 is no longer trying to 'phone home'. It is not trying to communicate with anything anymore, leaving just your normal networking connection used for happy browsing. (thats just my interpretation , could be very wrong :) In case you want to remove it instead of disabling it. Removing Bonjour for Windows (CS3 only) To remove Bonjour : Open a Windows command prompt and type the following command: "C:\Program Files\Bonjour\mDNSResponder.exe" -remove Navigate to the following folder in Windows Explorer: C:\Program Files\Bonjour Rename the mdnsNSP.dll file in that folder to mdnsNSP.old Restart your computer Delete the the Program Files\Bonjour folder Removing Bonjour prevents Version Cue clients (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Flash, Bridge) from automatically discovering Version Cue Servers and Version Cue projects in your local network. You will need to connect manually using Connect to Server and the URL or IP address of the machine running Version Cue Server instead.
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
September 22nd, 2010 1:03am

I had the same problem when I rebuilt my Windows 7 system. I had CS3 installed on my system, it installs an old version of bonjour. If you inspect your program files\bonjour directory, see if you have an EXE and DLL file dated 2006. Jump over to apple's website and search for windows bonjour. I found the newer download here: http://support.apple.com/downloads/Bonjour_for_Windows Download and install this (you don't have to uninstall the old Bonjour) and reboot. This fixed my install and I no longer have the network error you describe. If you look at that folder now, you will have the newer DLLs (and some other gunk.) Bingo!!! I think this is the best solution....keeps a service that may be needed AND solves the problem....MANY MANY thanks.
October 16th, 2010 7:37am

I have an HP Pavillion PC which had Windows Vista Home Premium with all patches up to date. I upgraded to Windows 7 last weekend and ever since every time I reboot NW access fails. In Network Sharing there are 2 networks "Network 2" and "Unidentified Network". I have to disable the NW Adapter and enable each time to get rid of the "Unidentified Network" and recover NW access. How can I fix this? After reading various suggested solutions, none seem to resolve my issue, except for one by Lars Tornqvist below, because I too, had Adobe Photoshop CS3. His, and a few others, all say to do the process below.. My ID String was set by Apple Computers Inc.. ?? So far, no further issues exists. I did try Steve Hathaway's remedies.. tried to delete the MS Default Route 0.0.0.0 which has it's own additional issues.. and other temporary remedies like disableing /enableing the NIC, only seemed to have temporary resolution until the next MS Update, then it would start all over again ? <Start><Run><MsConfig><Enter> -> Services Disable the service called "##Id_String1.6844[... and then a bunch of numbers]" Reboot system. We'll see if next week's updates enables this disabled item ?
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
October 18th, 2010 1:15am

Wanted to say Thank you! Thank you! I've spent hours trying to figure out why my PC started to have networking problems, couldn't connect to the net, I had to disable and re-enable to get internet and Networking centre reported an unidentified network. This all started after Windows Update, before that my PC was fine with network and with Adobe CS3 suite, VMWare and Office installed. So a Windows Update caused the network issue, not sure which one as it applied 40 updates! I checked Bonjour and had one EXE and DLL from 2006. So I downloaded Bonjour from Apple's Support centre. As of Oct 2010 the URL is http://support.apple.com/kb/DL999 Version: 2.0.2 Post Date: June 03, 2010 Download ID: DL999 File Size: 5.18 MB Installed this version over the top of the old Bonjour service, it updated the 2006 files with ones for 2010, re-booted PC, networking working again, no Unidentified network :-)
October 27th, 2010 6:32pm

Thank you LarsTornqvist. Your solution worked for my Windows 7 machine. 4 days ago it started having this issue and I had been fixing it with a restore point from 10/27 but it always came back on a reset. I also have the full Master Collection. Must have been a windows update in conjuction. But again thank you!!
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
October 31st, 2010 7:39pm

I have the same problem but it only happens when I connect my laptop to docking station. I have to disable the card , disconnect the cable, enable the card and than reconnect the cable and only then it works. when I connect the cable directly to my laptop there is no problem
November 6th, 2010 6:35pm

Hi, if you get the unidentified network issue, check for Bonjour service and apply the new version. If not, the system may need drivers for the docking station/port replicator, check your systems drivers online and apply the NIC driver for the docking station. Thank, John.
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
November 8th, 2010 1:51pm

I had the same problem when I rebuilt my Windows 7 system. I had CS3 installed on my system, it installs an old version of bonjour. If you inspect your program files\bonjour directory, see if you have an EXE and DLL file dated 2006. Jump over to apple's website and search for windows bonjour. I found the newer download here: http://support.apple.com/downloads/Bonjour_for_Windows Download and install this (you don't have to uninstall the old Bonjour) and reboot. This fixed my install and I no longer have the network error you describe. If you look at that folder now, you will have the newer DLLs (and some other gunk.) Winner! And the logical solution - thank you
November 17th, 2010 9:48am

Thanks Steve! In response to your instruction: IF YOU GET YOUR IP DYNAMICALLY VIA DHCP The DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server should be connected to the same switch or hub as your "Local Area Connection" interface adapter. Here's the details on how the above insight lead me to permanetly resolve this internet connectivity problem: In Control Panel slect Change Adapter Settings on LHS panel. Local Area Network Connection adapter icon is displayed. Right click on the adapter icon and select "Properties" from pop up menu. In resulting window, the list of installed protocols and services for this adapter are displayed. Find and select "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) in the list then choose the properties button. The properties window for the TCP/IPv4 protocol opens. I have the buttons for "Obtain an IP address automatically" and "Obtain DNS server address automatically" selected. Click the "Advanced" button to open up the Advance TCP/IP Settings window. It should show that you have DHCP enabled, however, in my case the default gateway address for my network was blank. I clicked the "Add" button beneath the Default Gateways box and added the gateway setting for my LAN here. That was it. As soon as I clicked the add button to add the gateway IP address I entered, it connected and I had full Internet access and no further problems connecting automatically after rebooting Win 7. If you don't already know your LAN's gateway IP address, you can find it by going to the "Search programs and files" box on the Windows Start Menu (bottom left) and typing the command "cmd". Then hit enter to bring open a DOS box. In the DOS box window type the command "ipconfig" and hit enter on your keyboard. Look at the resulting list of numbers displayed beneath the section titled "Ethernet adapter Local Area Connection." The IP address of your LAN's Gateway is listed across from "Default Gateway." I know that this fix will not apply to everyone, but it certainly was a quick one once I realized that even though I had DHCP enabled, my network adapter couldn't get internet access due to the fact it gouldn't automatically find the gateway address. Hope this helps!
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
November 23rd, 2010 9:43pm

I had the same problem when I rebuilt my Windows 7 system. I had CS3 installed on my system, it installs an old version of bonjour. If you inspect your program files\bonjour directory, see if you have an EXE and DLL file dated 2006. Jump over to apple's website and search for windows bonjour. I found the newer download here: http://support.apple.com/downloads/Bonjour_for_Windows Download and install this (you don't have to uninstall the old Bonjour) and reboot. This fixed my install and I no longer have the network error you describe. If you look at that folder now, you will have the newer DLLs (and some other gunk.) Another thank-you! I'd been suffering with this problem for a year, and found several stop-gap symptomatic solutions (disabling/reenabling the network adapter, etc.), but never heard the real diagnosis before. I'm using CS3 and don't believe I need Bonjour, so I've disabled it in services, but I'll keep your message and the Adobe address in my files in case I ever need the new version.
December 2nd, 2010 5:08pm

I too had the same problem for the last year. The above solutions worked perfectly. Thanks a ton!
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
December 7th, 2010 4:37am

One of two scenarios can happen related to Unidentified Networks it seems: 1) your previously working network stops working because the default route is gone 2) your previously working network stop works because the default route points to the wrong place The above comment is of the latter disposition. It appears that Windows 7 'Network Location' keys off of said default route to identify which type (Work, Home, Public) is being used for a given nic, as it has to be able to tell with or without dhcp being enabled. I ran into the second situation on a Wireless-G USB adapter, upon boot, would state unidentified network. going into an elevated cmd prompt and issuing a route print would show all interface routes but no default. issuing a "route add 0.0.0.0 mask 0.0.0.0 a.b.c.d" where a.b.c.d was my gateway would automatically convert the location of the network from unidentified to work, with zero other changes. After further review it appears the issue with Win7 is that whenever you make a change to the location, no subsequent changes to that same interface will be retained until the machine boots with that NIC set to that location cleanly. In other words: Fails) changing the network location to what you intend, changing the default gateway, or nameserver or dhcp enabled status. It'll work until the machine restarts typically. Works) changing the network location to what Windows last thought it was (if you're trying to make a public into work, set it to public here). reboot. change the network location to what you intend it to be (work). reboot. now change the dhcp status, dns, default gateway or anything else and it'll behave as expected ala xp or whatever. Something about changing the network location in tandem with the default gateway causes windows to think the config is invalid and voila, unidentified network.
December 17th, 2010 10:24pm

I just set my routers IP as my default gateway and problem fixed -Start -Search NCPA.CPL -Click enter -Right click on the unidentified network -Properties -Click IPv4 -Properties -Tick "Use the following IP Address" IP Address 192.168.1.65 (doesn't have to be .65) Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0 Default Gateway: listed as default IP address on the bottom of your router (for me: 192.168.1.254) -Click OK I didn't require a reboot, you may have to.
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
December 24th, 2010 6:17am

I too had this problem. After searching alot of forums I found the culprit to be Adobe CS3. Some people say it's Photoshop, some say it's Dreamweaver. I don't know which one since I have the full Master Collection installed. Anyway, the solution for me was to disable a startup service. Run MsConfig -> Services Disable the service called "##Id_String1.6844[... and then a bunch of numbers]" Reboot system. I have no idea what this is or what it does, but my computer is fine for now. Thanks so much LarsTornqvist. Your fix worked for me as well.
December 30th, 2010 2:57am

This helped fix the very same problem on my pc as well....following the directions i found the exact same "STRING" however it wasn't listed by Adobe Master Collection CS3 (which i also have installed) it was from those wonderful people at APPLE! Always proud to disable anything from them (hehehe) anyways...thanks for the help...very muchly appreciated.........
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
January 3rd, 2011 7:14pm

Same thing here. I found the same string, but it was an Apple service. Disabling that solved my problem.
January 20th, 2011 2:31am

Hi All, OK...here is what worked for me...go to a command prompt as admin and type: netsh winsock reset Suddenly all networks that had been "unidentified" were able to be remarked as "home" or "work", etc. Can't take credit..found a post on another forum..but this needs to be spread far & wide. Cheers, Johnster. im good to go now thanks to his post. I can't believe I Forgot about the stupid WINSOCK. UGGGGG Try his answer for those of you who don have the ID String ## ____. it takes just a few seconds start search- cmd- right click- run as administrator - then run the command he gives above
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
January 20th, 2011 2:34am

This helped! I was finally able to print from my home network by doing this! Thanks!!
February 20th, 2011 11:12am

Thanks Steve; perfect answer. :)
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
March 4th, 2011 9:43pm

I'm sure that the OP did not need to change his network settings, potentially to a completely invalid setting. How do you know that he's in a DHCP environment? This is a cookie-cutter answer!
March 4th, 2011 9:44pm

I have found through the course of testing many applications for Support purposes, that several things will trigger this. (1) If you install any of the Adobe Creative Suite software, which requires that you go to 'Apple' and download the latest drivers for "Bonjour Print Services". (2) Elsewhere in this thread, people have claimed that Microsoft provided us with a default IP address of 0.0.0.0 to which Steve Hathaway mentions going into the Windows Command Screen <RUN> "CMD" <RETURN> and typing "ROUTE DELETE 0.0.0.0" ( which did not work for me ). (3) Another user on the forum had found another solution that he does not claim, using the Windows Command Screen again, and typing "netsh winsock reset", thanks "Half-Baked Tech", ( which also did not work for me ). (4) But, because I am running Oracle's VM VirtualBox, with them claiming "..that your network connection(s) will fail, once I complete the process..", I found that going into the 'Control Panel', 'Network and Sharing Center', 'Change Adapter Settings', then holding down your <CTRL> button, then <LEFT CLICK> both items to where both networks are highlighted at the same time, then <RIGHT CLICK> on one of the highlighted networks and choose "Bridge Connections". This corrected my "Unidentified Network" issue, by binding both networks, by a software bridge, to my 'good' network connection. This has fixed my issue, permanently, after many Crash Tuesday reboots. Respectfully, Toby White-Beebe
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
March 5th, 2011 12:09am

I have found through the course of testing many applications for Support purposes, that several things will trigger this. (1) If you install any of the Adobe Creative Suite software, which requires that you go to 'Apple' and download the latest drivers for "Bonjour Print Services". (2) Elsewhere in this thread, people have claimed that Microsoft provided us with a default IP address of 0.0.0.0 to which Steve Hathaway mentions going into the Windows Command Screen <RUN> "CMD" <RETURN> and typing "ROUTE DELETE 0.0.0.0" ( which did not work for me ). (3) Another user on the forum had found another solution that he does not claim, using the Windows Command Screen again, and typing "netsh winsock reset", thanks "Half-Baked Tech", ( which also did not work for me ). (4) But, because I am running Oracle's VM VirtualBox, with them claiming "..that your network connection(s) will fail, once I complete the process..", I found that going into the 'Control Panel', 'Network and Sharing Center', 'Change Adapter Settings', then holding down your <CTRL> button, then <LEFT CLICK> both items to where both networks are highlighted at the same time, then <RIGHT CLICK> on one of the highlighted networks and choose "Bridge Connections". This corrected my "Unidentified Network" issue, by binding both networks, by a software bridge, to my 'good' network connection. This has fixed my issue, permanently, after many Crash Tuesday reboots. Respectfully, Toby White-Beebe hi , this is a good example of that what works for one does not work for the other user , .... everybody has something different on his computer , modem , router , etc , ... isp home or work network , etc , ... people should take this into account before they claim that ' its the solution ' !! we all have different settings and different computers , that can make it a nightmare to fing the correct and right solution for a user , ... but the main problem is to get the correct info , and the fact that one has to contact the correct ' support ' , .... have a mice dayScan with OneCare + Support ENDING for windows Vista & XP ! + Plagued by the Privacy Center? REMOVE IT + Threat Research & Response Blog + Sysinternals Live tools + TRANSLATOR + Photosynth + Microsoft Security + Microsoft SUPPORT + PIVOT from Live Labs + Microsoft Live Labs + Get OFFICE 2010 FREE ! 
March 7th, 2011 8:59am

I want to celebrate.......Thank you...thank you.... I have read with interest so many suggestions as to how to eliminate this, what seems to be a common problem, and tried most. It was not until I saw your post that I realized it had only been there since loading CS3. Sure enough first time...Bingo. I can now put away the razor I was about to use on my wrists.
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
May 4th, 2011 9:20am

I too had this problem. After searching alot of forums I found the culprit to be Adobe CS3. Some people say it's Photoshop, some say it's Dreamweaver. I don't know which one since I have the full Master Collection installed. Anyway, the solution for me was to disable a startup service. Run MsConfig -> Services Disable the service called "##Id_String1.6844[... and then a bunch of numbers]" Reboot system. I have no idea what this is or what it does, but my computer is fine for now. Thanks! It worked for me too. I hope though I won't have any problems later :)
June 15th, 2011 5:46pm

Additional notes for those running Adobe Creative Suites.. Adobe uses a Post Script Driver by Bonjour. As such, when you go into the Services and find the corrupt service ##id_string1.6844xx, then disable it, you have only stopped the culprit creating the issue, not fixed it. You need to go to Apple's website and download the latest "Bonjour Printer Services Installer", which mine was named "BonjourPSSetup" version 2.0.2.0 or greater. This will restore the Post Script Driver that Adobe will be looking, and to this date, I have had no further issues in this area.Respectfully, Toby White-Beebe
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
June 15th, 2011 9:00pm

Hi to all, There are many methods to make Your LAN or Wireless to work and remove "undefined network" problem. Yes, with removing Bonjour or disabling it, disable/enable networ device ... The method with "route" command is more powerful. First of all you need to get command line with cmd command. Type "route print -4" and look for "Gateway" with status under it different from "On-link", if so and you don't have connection do on command line "route delete 0.0.0.0". All this is related if you have only one connection to the network, i.e. do not do it if you have more then one at a time or you'll loose connection to all! Next click RIGHT button of mouse on Computer Icon on Desktop and choose Manage, locate Device Manager and click on it! locate on Right side Network Adapters click on "+" to expand the tree and locate your problem adapter! Click Right buton of mouse on it and choose Properties, Locate Details and click on it. Click under Property on Device description and locate Location information. You'll see something like "PCI bus 0, device 12, function 0". The need value is after "device" in my case this is "12" and remeber it! Go back to "cmd" command line window and write down "route add 0.0.0.0 mask 0.0.0.0 YOUR_GATEWAY_IP if 12". You must know YOUR_GATEWAY_IP (Router IP), that is only weakness, i.e. it is not perfect solution! If you follow the instruction you'll have your connection to the network. Best Regards
June 17th, 2011 3:33pm

I interesting that so many people are having this problem including myself but Microsoft are not offering any explanation or solution. WHy does the Unidentified Network problem happen and what are microsoft doing to resolve the problem? Surely it can be either resolved in one of those awsome windows updates or they can make it easier for people to resolve it without becomming an IT Geek. THis is rediculous !
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
July 20th, 2011 7:59am

Genius. This fixed the problem on my Win 7 Pro machine. Thanks Steve.
September 6th, 2011 7:33am

Hello All, My brother rebooted his computer and is having a similar issue. Everyone of his Network Connections get automatically listed under Unidentified Network (Public Network). 1. He don't have the Bojour Service loaded. 2. He doesn't use Adobe CS3, he has CS4. 3. We have tried 3.a ROUTE DELETE 0.0.0.0 3.b netsh winsock reset catalog 3.c netsh int ip reset reset.log What happens is that when we reboot, the adapters go through a discovery phase. But instead of creating a new Network which we can configure as Home, Work or Public, it always puts the Network Connections (ex Local Area Connection 5) under the Unidentified network. We have been at this for hours, there doesn't seem to be a way for us to create a new Network then assign an adapter to it. It would be nice to be able to drag and drop this stuff around, but you can't. Does anyone know how to get that default Network to appear on reboot? - Roger
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
September 7th, 2011 4:55pm

Next click RIGHT button of mouse on Computer Icon on Desktop and choose Manage, locate Device Manager and click on it! locate on Right side Network Adapters click on "+" to expand the tree and locate your problem adapter! Click Right buton of mouse on it and choose Properties, Locate Details and click on it. Click under Property on Device description and locate Location information. You'll see something like "PCI bus 0, device 12, function 0". The need value is after "device" in my case this is "12" and remeber it! There is an easier way to find out the interface. In the same screen as above when you used >route PRINT -4, there is an interface screen before you get to the routes. On my screen, when I follow the procedure above my device says "0", but the interfaces for both my Ethernet ports are "11" and "12" on the interface screen. Using "11" and "12" worked for me. I could add the route successfully. - Roger- Roger
September 8th, 2011 2:08pm

I found that going into the 'Control Panel', 'Network and Sharing Center', 'Change Adapter Settings', then holding down your <CTRL> button, then <LEFT CLICK> both items to where both networks are highlighted at the same time, then <RIGHT CLICK> on one of the highlighted networks and choose "Bridge Connections". This corrected my "Unidentified Network" issue, by binding both networks, by a software bridge, to my 'good' network connection. This has fixed my issue, permanently, after many Crash Tuesday reboots. Respectfully, Toby White-Beebe This worked for us. Like Toby, everything else listed here failed for us, but taking both Ethernet Adapters and creating a bridge created the default "Network" listing we were looking for.- Roger
Free Windows Admin Tool Kit Click here and download it now
September 8th, 2011 2:10pm

This topic is archived. No further replies will be accepted.

Other recent topics Other recent topics