Microsoft SQL Server Error 4014: Causes & Solutions

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  • Updated on June 14th, 2025

Summary: If you are managing emails and suddenly face Error 4014, it can be hectic. But this common error usually appears with a message, like: A fatal error occurred while reading the input stream from the network. The session will be terminated. It often relates to network or system issues and can disrupt your database connection. So, in this blog, we will explain the causes of Microsoft SQL Server Error 4014 and the steps to recover it. In addition, you can directly use the SQL Database Recovery Software for a quick, precise, and 100% accurate recovery.
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What is SQL Server Error Code 4014?

Error 4014 is a network-related error that occurs when SQL Server fails to read incoming data properly over a network connection. When this occurs, SQL Server ends the session to protect the system from potential data corruption or inconsistency.

Common Message Example:

Error: 4014, Severity: 20, State: 11

A fatal error occurred while reading the input stream from the network. The session will be terminated.

This error is serious; it’s a Severity 20 error. Which means it’s a system problem related to the SQL Server engine or hardware/network issues.

Common Causes of Microsoft SQL Server Error 4014

There are several reasons why this error occurs. Some of the main reasons are:

  • Sometimes, outdated or corrupt network interface drivers.
  • If SQL Server components that rely on .NET malfunction.
  • Security software or backup agents interfering with SQL Server’s processes.
  • Moreover, older versions of SQL Server might have known issues fixed in updates.

How to Fix SQL Server Error 4014?

There are a few manual methods you can try to fix this SQL Server error. However, these free solutions don’t always work and might even risk your database in some cases. That’s why, for better safety and to recover your data in more serious situations, using a professional tool is a smart option. Many database experts recommend it for reliable results.

Free Way to Fix Microsoft SQL Server Error 4014

SQL Error 4014 is often related to Microsoft’s Scalable Networking Pack (SNP) features, which aim to improve network performance. However, these features can sometimes cause issues with SQL Server. The three main components involved are:

  • TCP/IPnetsh int tcp show global
  • Chimney Offload: reduces CPU load by shifting network tasks away from the processor.
  • Receive Side Scaling (RSS): spreads network traffic processing across multiple CPUs.
  • Network Direct Memory Access (NetDMA): helps transfer memory data more efficiently.

Steps to Disable SNP Features:

  1. Firstly, open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Then, run the following command:
    • netsh int tcp show global
  3. After that, disable TCP Chimney Offload:
    • netsh int tcp set global chimney=disabled
  4. Then, disable receive side scaling (RSS):
    • netsh int tcp set global rss=disabled
  5. Now, disable NetDMA via Registry Editor:
    • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\TCPIP\Parameters
  6. Lastly, restart your system and check if this error has been resolved or not.

Additional Troubleshooting Tips

If the error still appears:

  • Make sure all SQL Server services are running properly.
  • Also, check the SQL Server logs for related warnings or errors.
  • Otherwise, update SQL Server to the latest version and install any missing patches.
  • Moreover, restart the server to rule out temporary glitches.
  • In some cases, rebuilding system databases may be necessary (advanced users only).

Important Note:

If you are facing SQL Server Error 4014, the manual method works. But, they require technical knowledge. Furthermore, if done incorrectly, you might affect the server’s network performance or risk data issues. That’s why using the alternative mentioned below is an effective and efficient choice.

Hassle-Free Way to Fix Microsoft SQL Server Error 4014

For a 100% accurate recovery, you can use the SQL Database Recovery Software. This tool uses smart technology to quickly repair damaged or corrupted MDF and NDF files. You can recover lost or deleted components, like Tables, Views, Triggers, and more, without hassle. Moreover, you can preview the recovered database file before downloading it.

This top-notch utility also helps to fix Microsoft SQL Server Error 18456 and other types of errors. You can use the free demo version to check how the tool works and explore its features.

Easy Steps to Fix SQL Server Error 4014:

  1. Primarily, launch the SQL Recovery Software on your PC.
  2. Then, click Open and browse the corrupted SQL database file.
  3. After that, choose the Recovery & Collation options. Click OK.
  4. You’ll be able to see a preview of all the files that were recovered.
  5. Finally, choose where you want to save the recovered SQL data.

Conclusion

In this blog, we covered different ways to fix Microsoft SQL Server Error 4014. If you’re comfortable with technical steps and have the time, you can try the manual methods. But if the issue involves data corruption or you can’t access your database, it’s better to use a professional recovery tool. It helps you recover all your important data quickly and safely, without any risk of data loss.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1 What Causes SQL Server Error 4014?

Ans: This error is typically caused by network communication issues, such as dropped packets, outdated NIC drivers, or conflicts with SNP features.

Q.2 How Do I Fix SQL Server Error 4014?

Ans: You can fix SQL error 4014 by using the manual method or professional SQL Recovery Software. However, the professional tool offers you a quick and accurate solution.

About The Author:

Adom Smith is a DataRecoveryHelp Technology Writer. He is a technology enthusiast with over 3 years of experience in Data Recovery, IoT, Artificial Intelligence, and Robotics. He enjoys researching and sharing DIY solutions as well as tips and tricks for resolving Windows technical issues.

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