This is a nasty one – and if you’re reading this now, congratulations on finding a way back online. When you get Error 651, you’re looking at a loss of connectivity and it's hard to determine what is actually causing the problem. Don’t despair, however – you can get your computer back online, but be ready to do a bit of trial and error to see what fixes the problem for you. It seems to be a bit different for every person. Fortunately, the majority of the solutions aren’t overly technical.

The Causes of Error 651

Unlike many errors that are caused by a specific thing, Error 651 pops up for no particular reason. It seems to show up in the worst possible time and it’s pretty clear in its message:

You have an error and you can’t get online. Sadly, since you can’t get online, you also can’t do a quick search for help, hence my congratulations on finding us! If you’re looking at an Error 651, we’ll help you work through it, starting with the simplest methods and working toward the more complicated ones.

Solving Error 651

In the error message you’ve received, you likely have a choice to try a Re-dial. Click on Redial. Maybe you’ll actually get online this time! You might even try it a few times just in case.  Here are the other essential basics you should do.  If they seem over-simple, don't worry, they're exactly what tech-support will ask you to do too.  The least it will accomplish is ruling out some of the jittery bugs that can affect dial-up configurations.  Try . . .

…Restarting the modem

If you’re not able to get online simply by redialing, your next step should be to work with the modem. Unplug the modem and then plug it back in again. Unplug it from the wall, unplug it from your computer and unplug it from your network. Now wait 3 minutes (5 minutes to be sure).  Then put all of the plugs back in, turn it on and try again.

…Restarting the computer

If nothing is happening, restart your computer now that your modem has been reconnected. Once it comes back on, try connecting again.  A reboot re-inputs the settings that normally govern your dial-up behavior.

…Logging in as administrator

If you’ve been working in a user account, logout and then login as the administrator. You might try a restart and then login as an administrator as well. Try to connect. Still nothing? Keep going.

…Clear dial-up connections

Even though this particular error happens with both cable and dial up modems, it's most common with dial-up configurations. If you are using a dial up modem, clear out all dial up connections or, better yet, look for a button that will restore defaults.  If there isn't one, or if you want to customize settings, do so.  A google-search for for ways to customize dial-up settings is a quick reference and the best way to find out some of those base level configurations that can help you tip the scales when your system is malfunctioning.

Heavy Duty Repairs

Checking your modem’s driver. This is a lot easier than it sounds, actually. Access the Device Manager in Windows by right-clicking the "My Computer" or "Computer" link in the start menu.  Look for the link labeled, "Devices" or "Device Manager." In this utility, you can view all of your systems hardware components.  Find your modem or other networking devices.  Usually, you can right click it an test the driver.  Doing this checks to see if the driver (the translation program that tells Windows how to interact with your hardware) is up to date.

If it's out of date, right click the device and see if you can update the driver via Windows.  Even if it's not it might be worthwhile to update/replace the driver anyway.  Look on your modem's listing for the manufacturer’s name. Then visit that website and search for the drivers or downloads for that particular modem. If there is a new downloadable driver available, go ahead and download it. Follow the steps to install the driver and restart your computer once it’s installed. Then try the download again.

Remember:  After you've updated the driver, it never hurts to recycle the modem - that is - unplug it, wait a few minutes, and plug it in again to re-set it's connection to the ISP.

Calling your ISP. The next step for you on the computer is one that requires changing system files. It’s recommended that you do this only if you’re comfortable with the inner workings of the computer. But before you dig into the guts of the computer, call your internet service provider.

Some of those affected by Error 651 claim that it is a problem with the internet connectivity on the service provider’s end. Get customer service on the phone and explain the problem. They might be able to guide you through any additional steps over the phone or you might be one of the lucky ones who mysteriously get connectivity back despite the ISP declaring it’s not anything on their end.

Be forewarned, however, that some service providers require you pay extra for a troubleshooting or maintenance plan if you want help with technical issues. It never hurts to ask, however. Just be sure you clear up any fees or additional costs upfront. Hopefully one of the previous steps or your ISP will help you get your computer back online.