Fix Spotify Error 17 Firewall Blocking Spotify On Windows And Mac (2025)

Updated: 11/29/2025

You open Spotify on your computer ready to hit play, but instead of your playlists you get an error popup saying A firewall may be blocking Spotify or Error code 17. It is extra frustrating if streaming works fine on your phone, which proves the account itself is healthy. This error usually means that something on your computer or network, such as the hosts file, firewall, or DNS, is interfering with Spotify’s connection to its servers.

Table of Contents

Method 1: Clean Hosts File And Remove Problem Entries

Save the hosts file, close Notepad, and restart Spotify to see if Error 17 or the firewall warning disappears. If the app connects normally afterwards, the problem was caused by those hosts overrides and you can leave them commented out.

Warning: Do not delete unrelated hosts entries added by your organization or security software without confirming with your admin, they may be required for other internal services.

Method 2: Reset Network Stack And DNS On Windows

Once the commands have completed, restart your PC so the changes fully apply. For best results power cycle your router as well by unplugging it for around 20 seconds, then plug it back in and wait for the connection to stabilize before reopening Spotify.

Method 3: Configure Antivirus And Firewall To Allow Spotify

Finally, connect your PC to a different network, such as a mobile hotspot, and try Spotify there. If Error 17 disappears, your original network or router may be filtering the needed ports, in which case you may need to adjust router firewall settings or contact your ISP for assistance.