Error 720
Universal ISP/Modem
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
Error 720 means Windows tried to connect to the internet using PPPoE but failed to complete the handshake. The connection attempt started but could not finish. This is usually caused by a corrupted network protocol stack or a problem with the PPP (Point-to-Point Protocol) component in Windows.
Affected Models
- Windows 7
- Windows 8
- Windows 10
- Windows 11
- Any DSL or PPPoE broadband connection
Common Causes
- The Windows PPP protocol stack is corrupted or has missing components
- The WAN Miniport driver is damaged or incorrectly installed
- A previous broadband connection left the network stack in a broken state
- An overly aggressive firewall or security suite is interfering with PPP
- Malware has modified network settings and broken the PPPoE stack
How to Fix It
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Open Command Prompt as Administrator. Type: netsh int ip reset and press Enter. Then type: netsh winsock reset and press Enter. Restart your PC.
This resets the core TCP/IP and Winsock settings — the most common fix for Error 720.
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Open Device Manager. Under 'Network Adapters', look for WAN Miniport (IP) and WAN Miniport (PPPoE). Right-click each and select Uninstall. Then restart your PC — Windows reinstalls them automatically.
Corrupted WAN Miniport drivers are a leading cause of Error 720.
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Delete your existing broadband connection and create a new one. Go to Settings > Network > Dial-up > Set up a new connection.
The saved connection profile may have become corrupted.
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Run a malware scan using Windows Defender or Malwarebytes. Malware can corrupt network settings.
Some malware specifically targets network stacks to redirect traffic.
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If nothing else works, use Windows System Restore to roll back to a point before the error started.
System Restore does not affect your files but reverses recent system changes.
When to Call a Professional
If resetting the network stack and reinstalling drivers does not help, consider contacting a local PC technician. In rare cases, the network stack corruption is deep enough to require a Windows repair install. Your ISP cannot fix this one — it is a Windows-side issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Error 720 a hardware problem or a software problem?
Almost always software. Error 720 is specific to Windows' internal PPP stack and WAN Miniport drivers. Your modem is rarely the cause. Focus on resetting your network stack and reinstalling drivers.
Will resetting the network stack delete my files or settings?
No, it will not delete any personal files. It only resets network-related configurations. You may need to reconnect to Wi-Fi networks and re-enter your broadband connection details afterward.
Can a Windows update cause Error 720?
Yes, this has been reported after certain Windows updates. If the error started right after an update, try rolling back that update first. Go to Settings > Windows Update > View Update History > Uninstall Updates.