RPC Server Unavailable - Comments Page 8

Hi, Bob.
I was installing some software when I encountered the error message:

"The InstallShield Engine (iKernel.exe) could not be launched. The RPC server is unavailable."

1.) First, I went to my services and viewed the settings on the RPC service. The service was on automatic and started, however all further options of "Start, Stop, Pause, Resume, and Restart" weren't allowed.
2.) I installed the latest version of InstallShield to my computer, but it didn't help.
3.)Lastly, I decided to try the common solution of where you go to Component Services-> Computers-> My Computer-> DCOM Config. However, once I click on "Computers," the screen closes. It also shows no item called "My Computer" below it. Please help me?

My problem is similar but different.

For no apparent reason, my system spontaneously changed the designation of the external hard drive on my XP Pro machine from 'F:\' to 'H:\'.

I went to the Computer Management console to change it back. Can't open the Disk Management dialog--"RPC server is unavailable"

RPC is, in fact, running as a service. I thought it might help to shut it down and restart. Can't shut it down. Can't restart. Windows says that it's an essential service, and Windows won't run without it. (In view of which, I'm a little puzzled by your story, in which you say there was no RPC service on your machine. But why would remote procedures be essential, anyway?)

In any case, Windows says its unavailable, and it won't let me manage disks--even local ones.

What do you make of that?

i have both entries(rpc)in services and ther are started and automatic.

but still i am getting error RPC server is not available

Good article, but I disagree with the last point. System Restore is just a convenient way to hid Virii and etc. from Anti-malware products. You can use Regedit's FILE>EXPORT feature to make a very small backup of the whole registry, and just save it in a folder somewhere. I take a registry backup every month and keep 1 years worth in a folder. It's a good way to restore something if it gets corrupted in the nightmare that is Windows' Registry.

Hello Mr. Bob,
i need to ask you something reacently itried to install some printer on frend compyuter and i got message tht the rpc server is unavaleble i tried your solutions andididn't secsided canyou tell me what istheproblem andcanit be hardwere problem not softvere

Mr. Bob,

My time and date do not stay updated and I can not install a printer. I get the "RPC server is not available" error message. I went into control panel > admin tools > services. I can see my RPC and I can also double click on it to open the properties box. It's status is "started" and startup type is "automatic." Now what do you think I should do?

EDITOR'S NOTE: Sounds like the battery on the motherboard needs to be replaced. As for the RPC problem, did you try the solution I suggested in this article?

Hello mate,

I've looked and my pc does have the reg rpcss.
I also have the RPC service which is set to auto.
I've been doing some digging on the net and found that some people have resolved this by turning on the "server" service, done but still no joy with me.
Another issue with it is the dependencies tab is empty on all services.
Pain in the arse..
I'm starting to think that this isn't fixable without a windows re-install....

Thanks Man ....U R Superive ;)

Hi Bob, I am facing a strange issue related to RPC. When i try to remotely log onto my system, i get the error 'RPC Server unavailable.' When i restart the system, i able to logon remotely.

What can be issue here ? Is this a virus ? The IT guys in my company think it is and the only solution they have is to format it and reinstall Widnows again.

EDITOR'S NOTE: A virus that's only active part time? I tend to doubt that. You might want to try a "repair install" instead of a full format. Boot from the Windows installation CD, and select Repair Install.

Hi -- I had a problem with RPC server unavailable and print spooler unavailable. I read your article -went into admin.tools opened service file -turned on print spooler and turned on RPC - printer worked.

Elle