Event ID 115 error message starting SMTP Relay Host Service in Windows NT 4.0 Option Pack (228475)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Windows NT version 4.0 Option Pack
This article was previously published under Q228475

SYMPTOMS

This article is a consolidation of the following previously available article: 322023 When you try to start the SMTP Relay Host service in the Microsoft Management Console (MMC) for Windows NT Option Pack (NTOP), the following error message may be logged in the NT Application log:
Event ID: 115
Source: SMTPSVC
Description: Service could not bind instance 1. The data is in the error.

CAUSE

This behavior can occur if another service or program is using port 25. Some example scenarios include the following:
  • You may have Microsoft Internet Security and Acceleration (ISA) Server installed on the same computer, and it is set to publish SMTP.
  • Some third-party e-mail programs that send and receive mail on behalf of another program may be using this port.
  • Some antivirus programs listen over port 25 and scan all incoming and outgoing e-mail messages.

RESOLUTION

To determine whether another program or service is using port 25, type netstat -an at a command prompt, and then press ENTER.

A list of all available ports and their states (listening or active) is displayed. If there is an entry for port 25 and you cannot start the SMTPSVC Relay Host service, this is likely the program that is causing the problem. Stop the appropriate service and then try to start the SMTP Relay Host service.

MORE INFORMATION

Transport Control Protocol (TCP) ports cannot be multiplexed or used more than one time in a session. You must stop one service from using a port before another service or program can use it.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:7/17/2006
Keywords:kbprb KB228475
©2004 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.