What Does TCP Connection Failure Mean?

By Kathleen Murphy

Updated September 28, 2017

If your TCP conenction is not set up properly, your computer will not be able to connect with your network.
i computers network image by Orlando Florin Rosu from Fotolia.com

Connecting to a computer network is key to career success for many people. Getting a message that the TCP — Transmission Control Protocol — has failed can leave computer users out of the communication loop.

Making the Connection

TCP, also known as TCP/IP, is used by networks to connect computers so information can be sent via a router. The IP, or Internet protocol, is the address. When the IP does not work, the TCP fails to send the information or connect to the router.

Correct the Address

Getting a message that the TCP connection has failed could indicate that the IP configuration being used is not correct or is set up improperly. Make sure the IP address is correct as part of the troubleshooting process.

Check the Router

The TCP connection failure message may also mean that the router you are using does not work or is not properly installed. This could be a problem with the setup between the computer and router — check the connection wires.

Expert Insight

In certain older Mac operating systems, you may get this message because the computer will not recognize the TCP/IP. Older Macs only recognize the AppleTalk protocol.

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