How to Fix "Cannot Connect to Server" Errors

What This Error Means

Your computer can't reach a server it needs. This could be:

• A website or web application
• Email server
• File server
• VPN server
• Any network resource

Basic Checks

1. Check Your Internet Connection

Can you access other websites?

• Open a browser
• Go to google.com
• If that works, your internet is fine

2. Check If the Service Is Down

It might not be you:

• Ask colleagues if they have the same issue
• Check if the service has a status page
• Wait a few minutes and try again

3. Restart What You're Using

Simple but effective:

• Close the application or browser
• Wait a moment
• Reopen and try again

More Solutions

4. Restart Your Internet Connection

WiFi:

• Turn off WiFi on your computer
• Wait 10 seconds
• Turn WiFi back on
• Reconnect to your network

Ethernet:

• Unplug the network cable
• Wait 10 seconds
• Plug it back in

5. Restart Your Router

At home:

• Unplug router power
• Wait 30 seconds
• Plug back in
• Wait 2-3 minutes for reconnection

6. Check VPN Connection

If you're remote and accessing work resources:

• Make sure VPN is connected
• Try disconnecting and reconnecting VPN
• Restart VPN application

7. Try a Different Network

If possible:

• Switch from WiFi to ethernet (or vice versa)
• Try a mobile hotspot
• See if it works on a different network

Specific Scenarios

Can't Connect to Email

• Check outlook.office.com in browser
• If web works but app doesn't, restart Outlook
• Check internet connection

Can't Connect to SharePoint/OneDrive

• Try the web version
• Check network connection
• Restart OneDrive app

Can't Connect to VPN

• Check internet connection
• Try different network
• Restart computer
• Contact IT

Can't Connect to Website

• Try a different browser
• Clear browser cache
• Check if website is down for everyone (ask colleagues)

When to Contact IT

Contact IT if:

• Basic troubleshooting doesn't work
• Multiple people have the same issue
• You can't access essential work resources
• The problem persists

What to Tell IT

• Exact error message
• What you're trying to connect to
• What you've already tried
• Whether it ever worked before

Need Help?

For connection issues, contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au or call 1300 521 162.