ERROR#800: Cannot initialize Bonjour
This article contains troubleshooting information
There was an error initializing Bonjour. This will make the plug-in unavailable from the Source-Connect application.
Source-Connect | Version 4 | All Operating Systems
Description
When users drop the Source-Connect plugin into their DAW, they get the following error message:

Reason
There was a problem when initializing Bonjour within your DAW, so the Source-Connect plugin cannot be initialized in the DAW.
Actions - On Windows
In order to resolve the issue, first try ensuring that the Bonjour service is running and is not blocked. To check this:
- In the search bar, type in “Services”. Then, select the system “Services” option.
- On the list, look for “Bonjour Services”. Ensure that the status is “Running”:
- If the status is any other than “Running”, right click the service and select “Restart” or “Start”.
After checking the service, proceed to:
- Close Source-Connect.
- Close your DAW, or your session.
- Restart your plugin, and drop the Source-Connect plugin into an auxiliary track again.
- Restart Source-Connect.
- Select the plugin as your I/O, as needed.
If the problem persists, try re-installing the application. You can also contact our support team at support@source-elements.com. You will need to send them the following information:
- OS version (whether it is macOS or Windows OS)
- DAW version where the error is occurring.
- Source-Connect version (you can find the information in the “About” box of Source-Connect).
If possible, please also attach the logs for your specific DAW.
Actions - On macOS
To enable Bonjour on macOS Sequoia, follow these steps:
- Verify whether or not Bonjour is running.
- Open Activity Monitor (Applications > Utilities).
- In the search bar, type mDNSResponder (make sure to select View > All Processes).
- If mDNSResponder is listed and running, Bonjour is active.
- Allow applications to use Bonjour.
- Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > Local Network.
- Ensure that the DAW you want to use Bonjour with have permission to access the local network.
- If an application isn't listed, try launching it. macOS should prompt you to grant access.
- Check your firewall settings.
- Navigate to System Settings > Network > Firewall.
- Click on Options.
- Ensure that the firewall isn't blocking incoming connections for the application using Bonjour.
- If necessary, add the application to the list and set it to “Allow incoming connections”.
On macOS Monterey and other recent macOS versions:
- Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy tab.
- Select “Local Network”.
- Make sure the relevant applications are checked to allow network discovery.
Note that this setting only appears if an app has requested access.
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