Troubleshooting “Start Job” for Network Interface Activation

When you see “A start job is running for Raise network interfaces” during network setup, it can be a real problem. It stops you from connecting to the network. We’ll look at ways to fix this and get you online quickly.

Understanding the Error Message

First, let’s understand the error message. It shows up when the network interfaces are starting up and there’s a delay. This can make your computer take longer to start and might affect your network connection¹.

Checking the Interface Configuration File

Often, the “Start Job” error comes from a wrong or messed-up interface file. Go to the network interface settings and check the file. Look for any wrong IP addresses or gateway settings and fix them¹.

Resolving Wireless Connectivity Issues

If the error is with wireless networks, it might be driver or firmware problems. Make sure you have the right drivers installed and they’re current. Also, updating your wireless device’s firmware can help fix compatibility issues and improve your connection¹.

Troubleshooting Bridged Network Interfaces

For bridged network interfaces, issues with network virtualization software and the host OS can cause the error. Check the network settings of your virtualization tools like VMware or VirtualBox. Make sure they don’t conflict with your host’s network settings¹.

Checking the Init Info for Network Interfaces

Initialization problems with network interfaces can also cause the error. Make sure the interface names in the setup files match the actual hardware. Using consistent names can help avoid reconfiguration issues. You might need to change the networking service file for this¹.

Updating and Configuring Networking Services

Keeping your networking services updated can help fix the “Start Job” error. Make sure all packages are current and fit your OS. Also, tweak network service settings to improve performance and cut down on startup time. Use your OS’s official guides for help on updating and setting up networking services²³.

Additional Considerations and Solutions

If the steps above don’t work, try these extra ideas:

• Turn off any extra network interfaces to make booting faster³.
• Change the timeout in the networking file for quicker starts¹.
• Look for help in forums, online groups, and official support for your issue. Other users might have found solutions¹.

Best Practices for Network Interface Activation

To avoid the “Start Job” error later, follow these best practices:

• Keep your network setup neat and up-to-date.
• Regularly update your networking packages and services.
• Set up your network for better performance and faster starts.
• Watch system logs for any network-related errors or warnings.
• Keep learning and stay current with networking tech and methods.

Conclusion

The “Start Job” error during network setup can be a big hassle, blocking your network connection. By understanding the error, doing thorough checks, and using the suggested fixes and tips, you can fix this issue. This ensures your network works smoothly¹³.

Key Takeaways

• The “Start Job” error means there’s a delay or timeout during network setup¹.
• Check the interface file, update wireless drivers and firmware, and fix virtualization conflicts for troubleshooting¹.
• Update and set up networking services, adjust timeouts, and seek user advice for more help²¹.
• Follow best practices for network setup to avoid future errors and ensure smooth connectivity¹.

Understanding the Error Message

When you see “A start job is running for Raise network interfaces,” it means there’s a delay in turning on the network interfaces during startup⁴. This delay can happen for many reasons, like wrong setup files or missing parts. It’s key to find out why to fix the problem.

At times, the error comes from old commands still being used. Before Ubuntu 18.04, ifup/ifdown were outdated, but they’re still in Ubuntu 20.04’s networking files⁴. Updating your network settings to newer methods is a good idea.

To fix this error, it’s vital to know if it’s a DNS or network issue. Try using the ping command to check if you can connect to both local and public IPs⁴. If you can ping, your network card is likely working fine, helping you pinpoint the problem.

Fixing DNS problems can also solve the error. This might mean turning off resolvconf and systemd-resolved, or editing /etc/resolv.conf manually⁴. Adding nameservers can also help with DNS lookup⁴.

It’s also good to know how to read DNS error messages. Learning about these and basic IPv4 networking can help you fix the issue⁴.

Checking the system’s drivers with commands like sudo lshw -C network is also a good step⁴. This can show if hardware or drivers are causing problems. Make sure only one NIC is set up on the same network⁴.

By understanding the error and following these steps, you can fix the delay in activating network interfaces. This leads to better network setup and system performance⁴⁵.

Checking the Interface Configuration File

When you see a “start job” error, start by looking at the network interface configuration file. This file is usually found at

/etc/network/interfaces

. It tells us about the network interfaces and how to turn them on. Make sure it’s set up right and error-free.

This file is key for setting up networks on Ubuntu and other Linux systems. It tells the system how to set up networks when it boots or manually. You can look at this file using a text editor or the

cat

command in the terminal.

In the file, you might see names like

enp0s8

or

ensXX

. These names help Ubuntu identify and keep track of network interfaces. Knowing these names helps you figure out which interfaces are causing the error.

The file might suggest ways to fix network interface problems. These tips could include updating settings, restarting your virtual machine (VM), or restarting network services. Users also share tips on adjusting network advanced options to solve certain problems.

Also, the file might mention closing Windows services like VMware NAT Service and VMnetDHCP. These services can sometimes mess with your network in a virtual setup.

When fixing the issue, be careful with the interface configuration file. A small mistake can cause more problems. Always back up the file before making any changes.

In summary, checking the interface configuration file is crucial for solving “start job” errors with network interfaces. The stats⁶ show how often these questions come up and the help users get. It shows the value of knowing how to manage Ubuntu networks, updating settings, restarting VMs, and looking at network advanced options. By fixing the file right, you can fix network issues and keep your network running smoothly.

Resolving Wireless Connectivity Issues

When you’re having trouble with your network, think about both wired and wireless connections. We’ve looked at wired issues before, but wireless can be tricky too. Here, we’ll cover common wireless problems, give tips to fix them, and help you get a reliable wireless connection.

Examining Wireless Details

If you can’t connect to your router, start by checking your system’s wireless settings. Make sure your Wi-Fi adapter is turned on and the network name (ESSID) is correct. Also, check the connection speed. A slow or unstable connection can cause problems⁷. has more on this.

Reinstalling the Wireless Driver

If checking the wireless settings doesn’t help, you might need to reinstall your wireless driver. Old or wrong drivers can cause issues. Go to the manufacturer’s site to download the latest driver for your system. After installing, restart and test your wireless connection⁷. has more advice on this.

Performing a System Update

Software updates can affect your wireless connection too. It’s a good idea to keep your system and network software up to date for better performance and security. If updates cause problems, try rolling back or finding specific solutions for the update⁸. has stats on update issues and black screens after updates.

Manually Disconnecting the Ethernet Cable

A wired connection can sometimes block your wireless connection. Try unplugging the Ethernet cable from your device to focus on wireless. This stops any conflicts with your wired setup⁸. explains why disconnecting Ethernet cables helps wireless work better.

Image depicting wireless connectivity

Ensuring Proper Network Configuration

Wrong network settings can cause wireless problems. Make sure your network is set up right, including the security settings that match your router. Also, check for any access restrictions or MAC address filters on the router that could block your device⁷. offers more tips on network setup.

In summary, fixing wireless issues means checking your wireless settings, reinstalling the driver if needed, updating your system carefully, disconnecting Ethernet cables if necessary, and making sure your network is set up correctly. These steps can help you get a stable wireless connection and keep your internet running smoothly.

Troubleshooting Bridged Network Interfaces

If you’re using a bridged network interface, especially in VirtualBox, it might cause the “start job” error. A common fix is to lower the timeout for the bridged interface by editing the systemd files. This can ease the boot process.

When fixing bridged network interfaces, check out helpful resources and guides. You can look at these links for more info:

1. network-link-becomes-dead-when-using-bridge-interface-in-debian
2. failed-to-start-raise-network-interfaces-for-bridge-br0-even-though-br0-exists
3. configuring-virtual-machine-network-connections_configuring-and-managing-virtualization

To fix the “start job” error with bridged interfaces, use commands like ‘nc -vz’, ‘traceroute’, ‘ip route show’, and ‘ip addr show’. These commands help with network checks and setup⁹. It’s key to know your network setup well and use the right troubleshooting steps⁹ and¹⁰.

Statistical Data	Link
Bridge devices set up on Debian 9.6: 2	Link 2
Status of networking.service: failed	Link 2
Execution status of systemctl processes: code=exited, status=1/FAILURE	Link 2
Main process PID: 591	Link 2
Maximum wait time for network interface readiness: 60 seconds	Link 2
Number of times br0 failed to come up: 1	Link 2
Bridge priority value for br0: 8000.00259086c729	Link 2
Bridge priority value for br1: 8000.00259086c728	Link 2
Total number of network interfaces configured: 2	Link 2
Network interfaces set to auto: 4	Link 2
IP address for br1: 192.168.1.212	Link 2
Subnet mask for br1: 255.255.255.0	Link 2
Network address for br1: 192.168.1.0	Link 2
Broadcast address for br1: 192.168.1.255	Link 2
Gateway address for br1: 192.168.1.254	Link 2
DNS search domain: example.com	Link 2

It’s also key to know how virtualization networks work, like NAT-type networks in VirtualBox. These networks let VMs connect to the host and beyond¹¹. Remember, changing a VM’s network usually means restarting it¹¹. Bridged mode lets a VM join the host’s network¹¹.

Understanding bridged network interfaces, VirtualBox setups, and troubleshooting can help fix the “start job” error. This can improve your virtualization network’s performance.

Checking the Init Info for Network Interfaces

Often, the “start job” error happens because of missing init info for network interfaces. This issue arises if interfaces aren’t set up right or if some dependencies are missing¹².

When network interfaces aren’t set up correctly, it can mess up the boot process. This leads to the error “A start job is running for LSB: Raise network interfaces.” This error happens about once in every 50 boots¹².

To fix this, make sure the init info for network interfaces is there. Check that interfaces are configured well and all needed dependencies are installed. This way, we avoid the “start job” error and ensure network interfaces activate smoothly during boot¹².

Missing init info can come from system updates, constant changes to the interfaces file, or DNS changes. These actions can cause problems that stop network interfaces from initializing right¹².

One good way to fix this error is to not use a network manager and set a fixed IP manually. This stops any conflicts from the network manager and gives us more control over starting up¹².

Also, making the Maximum Transmission Unit (MTU) better and using unbound for DNS can make network interfaces more stable and fast. These steps can fix network issues that cause the “start job” error¹².

Summary:

• Missing init info for network interfaces can cause the “start job” error during boot cycles¹².
• Common causes of this error include system upgrades or updates, modifications to the interfaces file, and changes to DNS parameters¹².
• Avoiding network managers and configuring fixed IPs can help eliminate conflicts and ensure proper initialization¹².
• Optimizing the MTU and utilizing unbound can improve network interface stability and performance¹².

By checking and making sure the init info for network interfaces is set up right, you can fix the “start job” error. This lets network interfaces activate smoothly during the boot process.

Updating and Configuring Networking Services

Sometimes, the “start job” error can be fixed by updating and setting up your system’s networking services. Make sure NetworkManager and ModemManager are turned on and working right. Regular updates and correct settings keep your network stable and avoid the “start job” error.

It’s key to update networking services to run the latest software. This fixes bugs and compatibility problems that might cause errors. With the latest updates, you get new features and better network performance and security.

Configuring networking services means adjusting settings to fit your network needs. This includes setting IP addresses, choosing DNS servers, managing interfaces, and controlling protocols and services.

When updating and setting up networking services, follow best practices for your network. Test and troubleshoot after changes to find and fix any problems.

According to stats¹³, 82% of networking services are set up to work well. This highlights the need to keep networking services in good shape to avoid network problems.

References:

Networking Services Statistical Data
Percentage of networking services configured as UP and ready for use
82% (n=18 out of 22 services)
Percentage of network interfaces in an inactive state
18% (n=4 out of 22 interfaces)
Most used IP address format
73% of interfaces with IPv6 and IPv4 addresses specified (n=16 out of 22 interfaces)
Utilization of broadcast and multicast options
100% of interfaces with BROADCAST and MULTICAST options enabled (n=22 out of 22 interfaces)
Top master bridge associations
tap100i0 bridges with vmbr0 tap100i1 bridges with vmbr1 tap100i2 bridges with vmbr2 tap100i3 bridges with vmbr105 tap100i4 bridges with vmbr110 tap100i5 bridges with vmbr150 tap110i0 bridges with vmbr110 tap105i0 bridges with vmbr105 tap105i1 bridges with vmbr1

Regular updates and careful setup of networking services ensure a stable and efficient network. Use these best practices and the stats¹³ for help. This way, you can fix network problems and improve your system’s performance.

Additional Considerations and Solutions

When you face the “start job” error during network interface activation, there are more things to look at. Exploring these areas can help find solutions to the problem. Let’s look at key considerations and solutions to fix this error.

1. Check for Conflicting Network Management Tools

It’s important to check if there are any network management tools that conflict with each other. Having too many can cause problems. Remove any tools you don’t need to avoid conflicts and improve network interface activation.

2. Verify Network Hardware Compatibility

Make sure your network hardware works well with your system. Check if the Ethernet controller is compatible¹⁴. This ensures there are no hardware issues causing the error.

3. Explore Community-Supported Solutions

Looking at online forums can give you helpful advice and solutions. Talk to other users who have faced similar problems. Their advice can help you find effective ways to fix the error.

4. Comprehensive Troubleshooting Approach

Using a detailed troubleshooting method can help solve the “start job” error. Try the suggested solution¹². It includes steps like editing the interfaces file and enabling systemd-networkd. These steps often fix the error.

5. Optimize Network Settings

Improving your network settings can also help fix the error. Make sure your network interfaces have the right IP settings. Adjusting the Maximum Transmission Unit (MTU) can also improve performance¹².

By considering these extra tips and solutions, you can improve your chances of fixing the “start job” error. Stay thorough in your troubleshooting to find the right solution for your network. This way, you can get a stable and efficient network interface.

Best Practices for Network Interface Activation

To avoid the “start job” error, it’s key to follow best practices for network interface activation. Properly setting up network interfaces, keeping system packages updated, and having the right drivers helps. This way, we can reduce network interface activation problems and have a smoother experience.

Properly Configure Network Interfaces

• Make sure all network interfaces are connected and working right. A 5-minute delay at startup can happen if the Ethernet connection isn’t set up¹⁵.
• Check the files that control network interfaces for errors. If you find mistakes, use the steps from statistical data¹⁶ to fix them.
• Use tools like ifconfig and ip to turn network interfaces on or off when needed, as shown in statistical data¹⁶.

Regularly Update System Packages

Keeping system packages updated is key for stable and secure network interfaces. The latest info from statistical data¹⁶ shows that updates are crucial. It’s a good idea to keep your system current.

Ensure Availability of Necessary Drivers

Having the right drivers for network interfaces is crucial. Make sure your system knows and uses the needed drivers. The troubleshooting steps in statistical data¹⁷ can help check network cables and do hardware checks if needed.

By following these best practices for network interface activation, users can avoid common problems and keep their networks running well. Regularly checking and using these tips will help you have a smooth and efficient network.

Summary

In summary, to optimize network interface activation, follow best practices for setting up interfaces, updating the system, and having the right drivers. This approach helps users have a trouble-free network connection and avoids the “start job” error. Keeping up with these practices is important for reliable and efficient network interface activation.

Conclusion

Fixing the “start job” error for network interfaces needs a step-by-step plan. By understanding the error and checking the interface file, we can spot problems and fix them¹⁸. Also, solving wireless issues and looking at bridged interfaces can help fix the error and make the network stable¹⁸¹⁹. Plus, keeping networking services updated and trying different solutions makes network activation smoother¹⁹.

It’s key to look closely at the problem and its details to fix network interface issues well. By studying how users and tech experts have tackled these problems, we learn a lot about what works and what doesn’t¹⁸¹⁹²⁰. Facing issues like getting an IP address or fixing startup problems can be solved with a careful approach²⁰.

When dealing with network interfaces, patience and detail are crucial. A methodical way of troubleshooting, backed by data insights, can help pinpoint and fix network interface problems. By using best practices and various troubleshooting steps, you can get a stable and efficient network¹⁸¹⁹²⁰.

FAQ

What does the error message “A start job is running for Raise network interfaces” mean?

This error means there’s a delay in turning on the network interfaces when your system boots up.

How can I troubleshoot the “start job” error?

Start by looking at the network interface configuration file at /etc/network/interfaces.

What can cause wireless connectivity issues?

Issues can come from wrong network settings or problems with the drivers.

How can I address wireless connectivity issues?

Look into the wireless settings and think about reinstalling to fix the problems and get a stable connection.

Can a bridged network interface contribute to the occurrence of the “start job” error?

Yes, especially in VirtualBox setups. Changing the systemd files can help reduce the wait time for the bridged interface.

What can cause the lack of init info for specific network interfaces?

Not initializing the interfaces properly or missing dependencies can cause this issue.

How can I resolve the “start job” error?

Update and set up your system’s networking services like NetworkManager and ModemManager to fix the error.

Are there any additional considerations and solutions for troubleshooting the “start job” error?

Yes, check for tools that might be fighting for network control, make sure your network hardware is compatible, or look for help from the community.

What are the best practices for network interface activation?

Set up your network interfaces right, keep your system’s packages updated, and make sure you have all the needed drivers.

Source Links

1. https://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=2323473 – [SOLVED] Ubuntu Server 16.04 slow boot with empty nics
2. https://forums.bunsenlabs.org/viewtopic.php?id=2776 – [SOLVED] A start job is running for network manager 1m 30sec / Help & Support (Other) / BunsenLabs Linux Forums
3. https://serverfault.com/questions/972634/debian-slow-boot-waiting-for-network – Debian – Slow boot waiting for network
4. https://ubuntuforums.org/archive/index.php/t-2447637.html – [SOLVED] 18.04.04: Raise Network Interfaces on boot, Problems with LAN driver [Archive]
5. https://docs.aws.amazon.com/AWSEC2/latest/UserGuide/using-eni.html – Elastic network interfaces – Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud
6. https://stackoverflow.com/questions/41609676/failed-to-start-raise-network-interfaces – Failed to start Raise network interfaces
7. https://forums.linuxmint.com/viewtopic.php?t=388749 – Mint wont boot unless network cable plugged in
8. https://forum.odroid.com/viewtopic.php?t=23265 – A start job is running for raise network interfaces…
9. https://superuser.com/questions/1601712/network-link-becomes-dead-when-using-bridge-interface-in-debian – Network link becomes dead when using bridge interface in Debian
10. https://serverfault.com/questions/946439/failed-to-start-raise-network-interfaces-for-bridge-br0-even-though-br0-exists – “Failed to start Raise network interfaces” for bridge br0 even though br0 exists
11. https://docs.redhat.com/en/documentation/red_hat_enterprise_linux/8/html/configuring_and_managing_virtualization/configuring-virtual-machine-network-connections_configuring-and-managing-virtualization – Chapter 14. Configuring virtual machine network connections
12. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-fix-start-job-running-lsb-raise-network-without-os-zongo-meyo – How to fix the “A start job is running for LSB: Raise network interfaces” without reinstalling the OS on Debian Jessie
13. https://forum.proxmox.com/threads/failed-to-start-raise-network-interfaces-solved.57276/ – Failed to start: Raise network interfaces [SOLVED]
14. https://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=2447637 – Raise Network Interfaces on boot, Problems with LAN driver
15. https://askubuntu.com/questions/1148135/how-to-avoid-5-minute-boot-delay-in-18-04-a-start-job-is-running-for-raise-net – How to avoid 5 minute boot delay in 18.04: “A start job is running for Raise network interfaces”
16. https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/disabling-and-enabling-an-interface-on-linux-system/ – Disabling and Enabling an Interface on Linux System – GeeksforGeeks
17. https://docs.redhat.com/en/documentation/red_hat_enterprise_linux/8/html/configuring_and_managing_networking/configuring-an-ethernet-connection_configuring-and-managing-networking – Chapter 2. Configuring an Ethernet connection | Red Hat Product Documentation
18. https://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=2323600 – [ubuntu] Ubuntu 16.04 Ethernet Help
19. https://forum.proxmox.com/threads/initial-network-configuration-with-ovs.35532/ – Initial Network Configuration with OVS
20. https://groups.google.com/g/gce-discussion/c/YUq1qanNORw/m/AXBaURmJAAAJ – Problem rebooting instance after adding entry to fstab for auo-mounting a GC bucket on reboot