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Netstat is Not Recognized: 5 Ways to Enable it
If netstat-an not working, check the command for typos
4 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Netstat is a handy command-line utility that lets users view network details in the Command Prompt. However, many reported that netstat is not recognized.
This is a powerful tool that lets youcheck listening portsand more, and if it’s not working, you might encounter problems analyzing your network and network traffic.
Luckily, there are ways to fix this issue, and today we’re going to show you how to do it.
Why is netstat not recognized?
What do I do if netstat command is not recognized in Windows?
1. Make sure you’re entering the command correctly
First, make sure you’re entering the command for Netstat correctly. If you don’t enter the command correctly, you’ll see that the netstat is not recognized as an internal or external command error.
That’s a short and straightforward command to enter. Make sure that the command doesn’t include any typos after entering it. Then press the Enter keyboard key to initiate the utility.
2. Start Netstat by entering its full path
If Netstat still doesn’t work, try entering the command as a full file path into the Command Prompt.
So, you’ll need to enter the full Netstat folder path in the Prompt as shown directly below. Then press the Enter key to initiate the command.
3. Add a new system environment variable
If system32 path is missing, you might encounternetstat not recognizederror in Windows 10, but the issue should be gone after creating the path.
4. Open Netstat from its folder
If you’re gettingnetstat not recognizederorr on Windows follow the steps above and ensure that netstat is at its default location.
5. Check if Netstat is in the Recycle Bin
If you can’t find NETSTAT.EXE in the Recycle Bin or its folder, that utility has probably been entirely deleted.
NETSTAT.EXE files are available for download at websites, but not all those sources are guaranteed to be entirely reputable. Check all potential file download sources very carefully.
If you need to restore a deleted NETSTAT.EXE file, updating Windows 10 to a new build version or performing aWindows 10 factory resetwill restore this file.
You’ll need to reinstall third-party software if you reset Windows 10. However, your user files can be retained.
So, that’s how users can fix the netstat not recognized Windows 10 error. Some of the above potential fixes might also resolve the same not recognized issue for other command-line tools.
To learn more about networking, check our guide on how toscan IP addresses on local network.
Did you find our solutions helpful? Let us know in the comments below.
More about the topics:command prompt,Network
Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.
He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.
In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.
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Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.
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