Windows VPN Error 868 — Remote Server Not Resolved
About Windows VPN Error 868
Windows VPN error 868 means the DNS name of the VPN server could not be resolved. This guide covers everything you need to know about this topic, including common causes, step-by-step solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Here are the key things to understand: Error 868 — DNS resolution failure for VPN server. Cannot convert VPN server hostname to IP address. Similar to general DNS failure but specific to VPN. May work with IP address instead of hostname. Understanding these fundamentals will help you diagnose and resolve this issue more effectively.
The most common reasons this occurs include: DNS server cannot resolve VPN server hostname. VPN server hostname is incorrect. DNS server is down or unreachable. DNS cache has stale entry. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward finding the right solution.
To resolve this, follow these recommended steps: Try connecting using VPN server IP address instead of hostname. Flush DNS cache: ipconfig /flushdns. Change DNS to 8.8.8.8 or 1.1.1.1. Verify VPN server hostname with nslookup. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider consulting additional resources or a qualified professional.
This article is part of our Windows Error Codes collection on Error Codes Wiki. We provide comprehensive, up-to-date information to help you find solutions quickly.
Quick Answer
Can I use the IP address instead?
Yes — this bypasses DNS entirely and often works.
Overview
Windows VPN error 868 means the DNS name of the VPN server could not be resolved.
Key Details
- Error 868 — DNS resolution failure for VPN server
- Cannot convert VPN server hostname to IP address
- Similar to general DNS failure but specific to VPN
- May work with IP address instead of hostname
Common Causes
- DNS server cannot resolve VPN server hostname
- VPN server hostname is incorrect
- DNS server is down or unreachable
- DNS cache has stale entry
Steps
- 1Try connecting using VPN server IP address instead of hostname
- 2Flush DNS cache: ipconfig /flushdns
- 3Change DNS to 8.8.8.8 or 1.1.1.1
- 4Verify VPN server hostname with nslookup