Software⏱️ 4 min read📅 2026-06-15

How to Fix: Samba error: Multiple responses received for a query on subnet x for name x

Samba error fix for multiple responses received on subnet x for name x

Quick Answer: Disable nmbd service and ensure only one server acts as the master browser.

The Samba error 'Multiple responses received for a query on subnet x for name x' occurs when the nmbd service on one of the Linux servers receives multiple responses to a query for a workgroup name. This error is typically seen in environments where two or more servers are configured to use the same workgroup name, causing them to act as master browsers and send queries to each other.

This issue can be frustrating because it may cause unexpected behavior and errors in the system. However, by following the steps outlined below, you should be able to resolve this error and ensure that your Samba setup is stable and functioning correctly.

💡 Why You Are Getting This Error

  • The primary reason for this error is due to the fact that nmbd is configured to use a workgroup name that is shared by multiple servers. When one server sends a query for this workgroup name, it can receive responses from other servers on the same subnet, causing the 'Multiple responses received' error.
  • An alternative reason for this error could be due to DNS resolution issues or incorrect configuration of the nmbd service. If the DNS resolution is not properly configured, the nmbd service may send queries to multiple servers, leading to this error.

✅ Best Solutions to Fix It

Disable nmbd Service

  1. Step 1: Stop the nmbd service on both affected servers by running the command 'sudo systemctl stop nmbd' or 'sudo service nmbd stop'. This will prevent further queries from being sent to each other and resolve the error.
  2. Step 2: Remove any configurations that may be causing the issue, such as the workgroup name in the smb.conf file. This can be done by commenting out or removing the line containing the workgroup name.
  3. Step 3: Restart the nmbd service on both servers after making the changes to ensure that the new configuration takes effect.

Configure Samba to use a unique workgroup name

  1. Step 1: Edit the smb.conf file on both servers to use a unique workgroup name for each server. This can be done by adding a new line to the [global] section of the smb.conf file, such as 'workgroup = MYWORKGROUP'.
  2. Step 2: Restart the nmbd service on both servers after making the changes to ensure that the new configuration takes effect.

💡 Conclusion

By following one of the methods outlined above, you should be able to resolve the Samba error 'Multiple responses received for a query on subnet x for name x' and ensure that your Samba setup is stable and functioning correctly. It's worth noting that while nmbd is still required in some cases, it's generally recommended to disable it when not needed to reduce potential conflicts and improve network stability.

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