How To Fix ‘The Hosted Network Couldn’t Be Started Error’ Issue in Windows 10 PC – Guide
Windows 10 PCs can be transformed into a hotspot, allowing users to share their internet connection with other computers and mobile devices. Microsoft’s “hosted network” feature, first introduced in Windows 7, enables this capability, turning the PC into an Internet sharing hub for multiple devices.
Despite its usefulness, the Windows hosted network feature is not immune to bugs and errors. When users attempt to start the hosted network from the command prompt, they may encounter an error message reading “Unable to start the hosted network,” preventing them from sharing their PC’s network with other devices.
Fix the hosted network error could not be started
Turn on WiFi
If you’re using a laptop, be aware that there may be a dedicated key on your keyboard to turn WiFi and Bluetooth on and off. Accidentally pressing this key can disable or disconnect your wireless adapter, so make sure it’s enabled before attempting to start a hosted network.
Ensure Airplane Mode is off before attempting any other troubleshooting steps. If it’s on, switch it off and restart your computer - this may resolve the issue.
Enable Microsoft Hosted Network Virtual Adapter
If the Microsoft Hosted Network Virtual Adapter has been disabled, users may encounter the “hosted network could not be started” error. To fix this, they should enable the adapter.
Open Control Panel by pressing Windows key + R and typing “Control Panel” into the Run box. Alternatively, you can find it in Start.
To disable your wireless connection, go to Network and Sharing Center in Network and Internet settings, select Wireless Network Connection, then click ‘disable’.
Right-click on Wireless Network Connection and select Enable to activate it. Then, open the Device Manager.
To access Device Manager, press Windows key + R, type devmgmt.msc and hit Enter or search for it in Start.
Navigate to the Network Adapters section and enable the Microsoft Hosted Network Virtual Adapter by right-clicking on it.
Create a hosted network by opening Command Prompt and typing “netsh wlan start hosted network” into the prompt. Press Enter to initiate the process, and your hosted network should be up and running.
Change settings on the Power Management tab
Open the device manager by pressing Windows key + R, typing devmgmt.msc and pressing Enter, or searching for it in Start.
To access the properties of a wireless network adapter, open the Device Manager window and right-click the device in the Network adapters section.
Check the “Allow computer to turn off this device to save energy” option in the Power Management tab of Device Manager, then click OK and restart your PC. This should enable the hosted network.
Final note
If you’re having trouble with your Windows 10 PC’s hosted network, this guide can help. Got questions? Ask us. And don’t forget to share the love by passing it along to your friends.
