Command reference

netsh winsock reset

Reset the Windows Winsock catalog used by network applications.

Syntax

netsh winsock reset

Purpose: Rebuilds Winsock catalog entries when damaged network-layer providers cause socket failures.
Administrator: Yes — an elevated terminal and restart are required.
Risk: Moderate; VPN, proxy, endpoint-security, or other network-filter software may need repair or reconfiguration afterward.
Windows support: Windows 11 and Windows 10

When to use it

Several unrelated applications have socket errors
A removed network filter left documented catalog damage

When not to use it

Only one website is unavailable
The PC has no cable or Wi-Fi link
VPN, proxy, or managed filter settings have not been recorded

Steps

Record VPN, proxy, and network-filter configuration and save network work.
Run the command from an elevated terminal and read the confirmation.
Restart Windows, then test ordinary networking before repairing affected filter software.

Expected result

The command reports that the Winsock Catalog was reset successfully and says Windows must be restarted to complete it.

Limitations

It does not reset IP settings, the router, or internet service.
It cannot repair a failed adapter, weak signal, bad cable, DNS outage, or remote website.