Cannot Connect to Network server

I am using Kodi Version 17.1 on my laptop PC with Wi-fi. I do not have a Kodi Box. Is it essential that I have a Kodi Box because with some Add on’s it says “cannot connect to the network server?”

Also when trying to sign in with YouTube, Kodi gives an activation code. When I go and activate and return to Kodi I merely get another request to activate. This also happens with Fox News

In the You Tube add on, I can however, view Popular right now videos etc without signing in so I must have an Internet connection, and if so why can’t I connect to the server?

I am a newbie so any assistance would be appreciated.