'The remote procedure call failed and did not execute' Error

The 'The remote procedure call failed and did not execute' error is a malfunction of a remote subroutine, usually on another computer in the same network. Windows users often can address this problem by troubleshooting the RPC service that handles these interactions. Usually, the 'The remote procedure call failed and did not execute' error isn't a security concern and is resolvable for free by modifying settings, restarting services, or repairing files.

A Botched Execution in a Less Grim Context

Errors in execution mean an entirely different thing in the scenario of computer programming: a problem with a function that can range from a feature not running as intended to an entire program's crashing. A 'The remote procedure call failed and did not execute' error is a specific case of function failure that involves the local or client computer attempting and failing at executing a function on non-local hardware. This scenario usually involves at least two computers on a shared network.

Windows users encountering the 'The remote procedure call failed and did not execute' error should troubleshoot with an eye towards the Windows service that manages these interactions: the remote procedure call service – abbreviated to RPC or RPCSS. It's distinct from the remote procedure call locator, a legacy component that Windows includes for compatibility with pre-Vista software. In most cases, the RPC service runs by default, and users have no compelling reasons for disabling it.

If there's a 'The remote procedure call failed and did not execute' error, users should make sure that the RPC is active first. Open the Windows Services application and scroll down to the RPC. The Status section will display if the service is 'Running' or inactive. Right-clicking it and selecting Properties will open up further options: changing the startup type (automatic is best for most users), pausing, resuming, stopping, and starting the service. Since the RPC is responsible for COM and DCOM server functionality, the same changes also should apply to the DCOM Server Process Launcher service. Lastly, Windows Vista and later versions of Windows should have the RPC Locator's startup set to manual.

Delving in Deeper into File Repair with RPC Problems

If the RPC service runs correctly, the 'The remote procedure call failed and did not execute' error might be due to file errors. Users can reinstall the associated application, load their latest Restore Point before the problem's appearance or use various Windows file repair features.

To use the System File Checker or SFC, launch the Command Prompt with administrator privileges. Then, enter the 'sfc/scannow' command. Since the scan is non-specific and includes the entire system, it will take significant time to finish searching for and repairing files.

Windows also has troubleshooters specializing in different problems, including audio, Internet connectivity, and folder-sharing. Users can explore all options in the Troubleshoot section from within Settings.

Rarely, these errors can be side effects of attacks by Trojans or other threats, which sometimes re-configure network settings and disable network-related services. Users with any suspicion should scan their systems with dedicated security solutions and quarantine or remove any detected threats.

Last of all, lest anyone forget, updates also can resolve problems like the 'The remote procedure call failed and did not execute' error. Being behind on patches for Windows, or anything else, is both a shortcut towards worse security and a path to unforeseen glitches, including RPC service hiccups.