Sigma Client Reports a "HTTP connection failed" error"

[Product_Support]

Issue

When launching the Sigma Client, the error "HTTP connection failed" is displayed, preventing the client from starting.

Product Line

Satchwell Sigma

Environment

Satchwell Sigma release 4.05 and later

Cause

The Sigma Client fails to establish a connection with the Sigma Server due to various system, network, or software-related issues.

Resolution

Below are the recommended troubleshooting steps, organized by category for clarity:

Operating System Compatibility

1. Windows XP: Ensure Service Pack 3 is installed and all updates are applied.
2. Windows 7: Only Ultimate and Professional editions are supported.

Installation & Permissions

3. Sigma software must be installed by a user with Administrator privileges.
4. Verify that the SigmaSVR service is running. If missing, reinstall Sigma as an Admin user.
5. If user profile corruption is suspected, create a new Windows Admin user and test Sigma.

Firewall & Network Settings

6. Disable Windows Firewall or configure exceptions as per the Sigma 4.05 SP1 release notes.
7. If using a proxy server (common in school networks):
   • Go to Control Panel > Internet Options > Connections > LAN Settings
   • Check "Bypass proxy server for local addresses"

     

8. On SE laptops, update McAfee/Trellix firewall settings:
   • Right-click McAfee/Trellix icon > Quick Settings > Enable Firewall Timed Groups
   • Add a reason (e.g., "Sigma") to allow a 1-hour access window.

Virtualization & Hardware

9. If using a VMware image, try rebooting the image.
10. If Sigma was installed while connected to Wi-Fi, uninstall it, disable Wi-Fi, enable Ethernet, and reinstall.

Third-Party Software Conflicts

11. Sophos Antivirus may quarantine Sigma DLLs. Uninstall Sophos and Sigma, reinstall Sophos (latest version), then reinstall Sigma.
12. Flexera License Software may conflict on port 8080. Stop Flexera or change Sigma to use port 8081.
13. StruxureWare Building Operation PCS also uses port 8080. Stop PCS to avoid conflicts.

System Configuration

14. Check the port number in C:\\Sigma\\bin\\setupsvr.exe. Default is 8080.
15. On DELL PCs, vendor-specific background services may interfere. Reinstall Windows without vendor apps and reinstall Sigma.
16. If the computer name contains extended ASCII or Unicode characters (e.g., “P á st”), rename it to a standard ASCII name (e.g., “Past”).

Clean Reinstallation

17. Backup Sigma data.
18. Uninstall Sigma via Add/Remove Programs (XP) or Programs and Features (Win 7).
19. Rename or delete the C:\\Sigma folder (e.g., rename to Sigma1).
20. Reinstall Sigma using right-click > Run as Administrator on SigmaSetup.exe.
21. Reboot the PC and verify the Sigma Server is running.