The Remote Procedure Call (RPC) is an essential component of Windows operating systems that enables different programs to communicate with one another over a network or within the same machine. When it malfunctions, users often face the dreaded "Remote Procedure Call was cancelled" error, which can disrupt workflows, prevent program execution, and lead to system instability. Thankfully, there are comprehensive solutions available to resolve this error effectively.

In this article, we will provide you with detailed steps and solutions to fix this error so that your system runs smoothly once again.

What is the Remote Procedure Call (RPC)?

Before diving into the solutions, it's important to understand what RPC is and why it's significant. RPC is a protocol that allows a program to request a service from a program located on another computer within a network. It enables the execution of commands and processes remotely, making communication between different systems and applications seamless.

If RPC fails or is disrupted, it can result in errors such as “The Remote Procedure Call was cancelled”, causing the operation to terminate abruptly. This issue can arise due to several reasons including network disruptions, system misconfigurations, or third-party applications interfering with the process.

Common Causes of the RPC Cancellation Error

Understanding the causes can help prevent the error from recurring. Below are some of the most common causes for the "Remote Procedure Call was cancelled" error:

• Corrupted or misconfigured system files: If critical system files are missing or damaged, RPC may fail.
• Network issues: Problems with your network connection can result in failed RPC operations.
• Third-party software conflicts: Some applications may interfere with the RPC service, particularly security software like firewalls or antivirus programs.
• Faulty hardware drivers: Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause interruptions in communication between your system’s hardware and software components.
• Incorrect RPC service configuration: If the RPC service is not configured properly or has been disabled, it may cause the error.

Solution 1: Restart the Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Service

One of the simplest ways to resolve the "RPC was cancelled" error is by restarting the service. Here's how to do it:

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type services.msc and press Enter to open the Services window.
3. Scroll down and find the Remote Procedure Call (RPC) service.
4. Right-click on it and select Restart.

This will restart the RPC service and may resolve the error if the issue was caused by a temporary glitch or misconfiguration.

Solution 2: Ensure RPC Services are Set to Automatic

The RPC service and its associated services should be set to start automatically to ensure they function properly. Follow these steps to check and adjust the settings:

1. Open the Services window by pressing Windows + R, typing services.msc, and hitting Enter.
2. Locate the Remote Procedure Call (RPC) service.
3. Double-click on the service to open its properties.
4. Under the General tab, set the Startup type to Automatic.
5. Repeat the steps for the following services:
   • DCOM Server Process Launcher
   • RPC Endpoint Mapper
6. Once done, restart your computer and check if the error persists.

Solution 3: Check for Corrupted System Files

Corrupted or missing system files can cause the RPC service to fail. Running a System File Checker (SFC) scan can help repair these files.

1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator by searching cmd in the Start menu, right-clicking, and selecting Run as administrator.
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the scan to complete. If any corrupted files are found, SFC will automatically replace them.

Once the scan is finished, restart your computer to see if the issue has been resolved.

Solution 4: Disable Firewalls or Antivirus Temporarily

Sometimes, firewalls or antivirus software can interfere with the RPC service. You can try temporarily disabling them to see if it resolves the error:

1. Open your firewall or antivirus program.
2. Disable it temporarily (ensure you are disconnected from the internet while doing this to avoid security risks).
3. Try running the program or operation that caused the RPC error.

If disabling the firewall or antivirus resolves the error, consider updating the software or adding an exception for the RPC service.

Solution 5: Check Network Configuration

Network issues can also cause RPC errors. Follow these steps to troubleshoot your network configuration:

1. Open the Network and Sharing Center by right-clicking on the network icon in the taskbar.
2. Select Change adapter settings.
3. Right-click on your active network connection and select Properties.
4. Ensure that the following protocols are enabled:
   • Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)
   • Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)
   • File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks
5. Click OK and restart your computer.

If your network was misconfigured, this should help fix the RPC error.

Solution 6: Update Device Drivers

Outdated or incompatible device drivers can also cause communication issues that affect the RPC service. Updating your drivers may resolve the issue.

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the categories and find any devices with a yellow exclamation mark (these indicate driver issues).
3. Right-click on the problematic device and select Update driver.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the latest driver.

After updating the drivers, restart your computer and check if the RPC error is resolved.

Solution 7: Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot allows you to start Windows with only the essential drivers and services running, which can help you identify if a third-party application is causing the RPC error.

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
3. Check the box that says Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
4. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
5. Disable all startup programs.
6. Restart your computer.

If the error does not occur in a clean boot, a third-party application may be causing the issue. You can re-enable the services one by one to identify the problematic program.

Conclusion

The "Remote Procedure Call was cancelled" error can be frustrating, but with the solutions provided above, you can easily resolve it and restore the functionality of your system. Whether it’s restarting the RPC service, checking for corrupted system files, or troubleshooting network settings, one of these methods should fix the issue.