Understanding Amazon CodeWhisperer Network Errors

Amazon CodeWhisperer requires a stable network connection to communicate with the AWS cloud service. Network errors indicate a failure in this communication pathway. This prevents CodeWhisperer from sending code context for analysis or receiving suggestions, resulting in the tool not functioning correctly or displaying error messages within the integrated development environment (IDE). These errors often stem from local network configurations, security software, proxy settings, or external network conditions.

Common Causes and Initial Troubleshooting

Network connectivity issues for CodeWhisperer can arise from various sources. Basic checks are often the first step in resolving these problems.

• Internet Connection: Verify that the workstation has an active and stable internet connection. Test connectivity by accessing external websites or services.
• IDE Restart: Close and reopen the integrated development environment (IDE) where CodeWhisperer is installed (e.g., VS Code, IntelliJ IDEA, etc.). This can sometimes resolve temporary glitches.
• Workstation Restart: Restarting the computer can clear temporary network issues or software conflicts.

Addressing Firewall and Security Software Restrictions

Firewall software, antivirus programs, or other security applications can inadvertently block the connections CodeWhisperer needs to make to AWS endpoints.

• Check Firewall Rules: Examine the configuration of local firewalls (like Windows Firewall, macOS Firewall, or third-party security suites). Look for rules that might be blocking outgoing connections from the IDE application or specific AWS domains/IP addresses.
• Antivirus/Security Software Settings: Some security software includes web filtering or network protection features that could interfere. Temporarily disabling these features (cautiously and briefly for testing) can help diagnose if they are the source of the problem.
• Allowlist AWS Endpoints: If possible and necessary based on security policy, configure firewall or security software to explicitly allow connections to the required AWS CodeWhisperer service endpoints. Specific endpoint details can typically be found in AWS documentation.

Resolving Proxy Configuration Issues

Environments using proxy servers require correct configuration for CodeWhisperer to connect to the internet.

• IDE Proxy Settings: Ensure the IDE is configured to use the correct proxy server settings (address, port, authentication). CodeWhisperer relies on the IDE's network configuration.
• System Proxy Settings: Verify system-level proxy settings are correct, as some applications inherit these settings.
• Authentication: If the proxy requires authentication, confirm that credentials are correctly entered and stored, or that the user is properly authenticated on the network.
• Proxy Bypass: In some cases, certain AWS endpoints might need to be added to a proxy bypass list, although this is less common and depends on specific network architecture.

Considering VPN and Corporate Network Influences

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and strict corporate network policies can introduce connectivity challenges.

• VPN Interference: VPNs route network traffic differently, which can sometimes interfere with specific application connections. Test CodeWhisperer functionality with the VPN temporarily disconnected (if feasible and compliant with policy) to see if the VPN is the cause.
• Corporate Network Restrictions: Corporate networks often have stringent firewall rules, content filters, or network segmentation that can block access to external cloud services. Consult with internal IT or network administration teams to ensure CodeWhisperer traffic is permitted. Network administrators can check logs to see if connections are being blocked at the corporate firewall level.

Ensuring Software is Up-to-Date

Using outdated software can sometimes lead to compatibility or connectivity issues.

• Update CodeWhisperer Plugin/Extension: Ensure the latest version of the CodeWhisperer plugin or extension is installed in the IDE. Updates often include bug fixes, including those related to network handling.
• Update IDE: Ensure the integrated development environment itself is updated to a recent, compatible version.
• Update AWS Toolkit: If CodeWhisperer is part of the AWS Toolkit for the IDE, ensure the entire toolkit is updated.

Investigating AWS Service or Region-Specific Issues

Although less common, issues can occasionally occur related to specific AWS services or network paths to certain regions.

• Check AWS Service Health Dashboard: Consult the AWS Service Health Dashboard for the specific AWS region being used by CodeWhisperer. This dashboard reports ongoing service issues that could affect connectivity.
• Regional Endpoints: CodeWhisperer connects to specific regional endpoints. While usually handled automatically, extremely complex network setups might need verification that the correct regional endpoint is reachable.

Gathering Information for Further Support

If troubleshooting steps do not resolve the network error, gathering detailed information is crucial for seeking support.

• Exact Error Message: Note the precise error message displayed by CodeWhisperer or the IDE.
• IDE Logs: CodeWhisperer and the AWS Toolkit often generate logs within the IDE that can contain detailed network error information. Locate and review or save these logs.
• Network Configuration Details: Document local firewall settings, proxy configurations, VPN status, and relevant corporate network policies.
• Steps Taken: Record the troubleshooting steps already performed and the results.

Providing this information to AWS Support or internal IT teams facilitates a quicker resolution.