What is Error 678?

Error 678 is an error that is reported when a remote system is not responding properly. Unfortunately, you may see this error for broadband, dial-up or VPN connections, so it is not specifically an error you will see for connections utilizing the telephony system. The specific error reported is "Error 678 - There was no answer".


Dial-up systems
This error generally means that the line is ringing, but the remote system is not answering the call. Check the number you are calling and verify that the number is correct. Turn your modem speaker on:

If you have an external modem, you can turn on the speaker to listen to the connection using the toggle switches on the modem chassis. Check your manual to determine how this is done as it is different for each modem type.

If you have an internal modem that supports the hayes modem command set, turn your modem speaker on as follows:

Click the "Start" button.
Click "Settings".
Click on "Control Panel".
Click on "Phone and Modem Options".
Select the "Modems" tab.
Select the modem you use for the connection, and click "Properties".
Click on the "Advanced" tab.
Write down your initialization string, you will want to ensure you can return it to your original value later. Add "M0" is in the initialization string.
Try your connection again. Listen to hear if the remote system is ringing, or if the telephony system is giving you an error. If you only hear the phone ringing, find another telephone number for your provider and try that, or contact your provider for further assistance.

Broadband connections
If you have a broadband connection and are getting this error, it generally means that your TCP/IP stack is corrupted and needs to be restored. There are a few things to try:

First and foremost, restart your computer, and wait until all applications and services are finished loading before trying your connection again.
If you have Windows XP you can use the "netsh" command to reset your tcp/ip interfaces. Click "Start" then select "Run". In the box that appears, type "cmd" and click the "OK" button. When the command window appears, type "netsh interface ip reset log.txt" and hit the enter button. You can now type "exit" in the command window, and hit the enter button. Restart your computer and try again.
If the above solutions do not solve your problem, reinstall your adapter drivers, or tcp/ip drivers.
VPN connections
If you have Windows 2000, and are getting error 678 when opening a VPN connection, you need a hotfix. Download the most recent service pack from Microsoft. If your problem persists, contact Microsoft for support here. NOTE: Microsoft may charge you for their assistance.