When trying to connect to a network resource (for example, to another computer, mobile device, or printer) from a Microsoft Windows computer, the initiating user may encounter a “Network path not found” error message: Error 0x80070035. The computer cannot connect over the network with the other device. This error message appears:
The network path was not found.
Any of several technical problems on a network can cause this error. Try the troubleshooting methods listed below to resolve or fix this issue.
Use valid path names
The 0x80070035 error can occur when the network itself is working as designed, but users make mistakes while typing the network path name. The specified path must point to a valid share on the remote device. Windows file or printer sharing must be enabled on the remote device, and the remote user must have permission to access the resource.
Other specific fault conditions
Unusual system behavior, including The network path was not found errors can occur when the computer’s clocks are set to different times. Keep Windows devices on a local network in sync using the network time protocol whenever possible to avoid this issue.
Make sure valid usernames and passwords are used when connecting to remote resources.
If any of the Microsoft system services related to File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks fail, errors may occur. It may be necessary to restart the computer to restore normal functionality.
Disable local firewalls
A misconfigured or misbehaving software firewall running on Windows bootable media can cause the network path to contain no errors. Temporarily disabling firewalls, whether it’s the built-in Windows firewall or third-party firewall software, allows a person to check if it’s running without influencing the error. If it does, the user must take the additional steps to change the firewall settings to avoid this error so that the firewall can be enabled again. Keep in mind that home desktops protected by a broadband router firewall don’t need their own firewall at the same time to protect themselves, but mobile devices that move away from home should keep their firewalls active.
Reset TCP/IP
While average users don’t need to get involved with the low-level technical details of how an operating system works, advanced users like to be familiar with the advanced troubleshooting options available. A popular method to prevent occasional problems on Windows networks is to reset Windows components that run in the background and support TCP/IP network traffic.
Although the exact procedure varies depending on the version of Windows, the approach generally involves opening a Windows command prompt and entering “netsh” commands. For example, the command
netsh int ip reset
reset TCP/IP in Windows 8 and Windows 8.1. Restarting the operating system after issuing this command returns Windows to a clean state.
