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How to Fix Ethernet Not Working on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Having a stable internet connection is essential for work, streaming, and communication. Sometimes, your Ethernet connection on Windows 11 may stop working unexpectedly. This can be frustrating, especially when you rely on wired internet for speed and reliability.

Fortunately, fixing Ethernet issues on Windows 11 is often straightforward. By following a series of simple troubleshooting steps, you can identify and resolve common problems.

This guide will walk you through easy, clear instructions to get your Ethernet connection back up and running. No technical jargon—just practical solutions.

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to restore your Ethernet connection smoothly.

Quick Note Before You Start

  • Check your Ethernet cable: Make sure it is properly plugged in and not damaged.
  • Verify router/modem status: Ensure your router or modem is powered on and working correctly.
  • Restart your PC: Sometimes a simple reboot fixes temporary glitches.
  • Note your Windows version: Confirm you are running Windows 11 to follow the right steps.

Step 1: Check Physical Connections

This is the simplest but most important step. A loose or faulty cable can cause the Ethernet to stop working.

  • Unplug the Ethernet cable from your PC and router.
  • Inspect the cable for any visible damage or fraying.
  • Plug the cable firmly back into both your PC’s Ethernet port and your router/modem.
  • If available, try using a different Ethernet cable to rule out cable issues.

Ensuring a secure physical connection is key because if the hardware connection is loose or broken, the software won’t be able to detect the Ethernet network.

Step 2: Restart Network Devices

Restarting your router and PC can resolve temporary network conflicts or glitches.

  • Turn off your PC.
  • Unplug your router and modem from power.
  • Wait for about 60 seconds to let the devices reset.
  • Plug the router and modem back in and wait for all lights to stabilize.
  • Turn on your PC and check if the Ethernet connection works.

This step refreshes network settings and can fix minor connectivity issues.

Step 3: Run Windows Network Troubleshooter

Windows 11 has a built-in tool that can automatically detect and fix network problems.

  1. Click on the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Network Adapter in the list and click Run.
  4. Choose the Ethernet adapter when prompted.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

This tool checks for common issues like disabled adapters, driver problems, or incorrect settings.

Step 4: Check Ethernet Adapter Status

Your Ethernet adapter might be disabled or malfunctioning. Here’s how to verify and enable it if necessary.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Network adapters section.
  3. Look for your Ethernet adapter (it might be named something like “Realtek PCIe” or “Intel Ethernet”).
  4. If you see a down arrow on the icon, right-click the adapter and choose Enable device.
  5. If the adapter is enabled, right-click and select Properties to check the device status. It should say “This device is working properly.”

Enabling the adapter if it’s disabled restores the network connection functionality.

Step 5: Update Ethernet Driver

Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause Ethernet problems. Updating the driver often fixes these issues.

  1. Open Device Manager again.
  2. Right-click your Ethernet adapter under Network adapters.
  3. Select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers.
  5. Windows will look for the latest driver and install it if available.
  6. Restart your PC after the update.

Keeping drivers up-to-date ensures compatibility and performance improvements.

Step 6: Reset Network Settings

If previous steps don’t work, resetting network settings can clear misconfigurations.

  1. Open Settings and go to Network & Internet.
  2. Click on Advanced network settings.
  3. Under More settings, select Network reset.
  4. Click Reset now and confirm.
  5. Your PC will restart, and network settings will revert to default.

This step removes all network adapters and reinstalls them, clearing any problematic settings.

Step 7: Manually Configure IP Settings

Sometimes, incorrect IP address settings cause Ethernet connectivity issues. Setting them to automatic can help.

  1. Open Settings > Network & Internet > Ethernet.
  2. Click on your Ethernet network connection.
  3. Scroll down and select IP assignment, then click Edit.
  4. Set it to Automatic (DHCP) and save.
  5. Restart your PC and check if the connection works.

This lets your PC automatically get proper network settings from the router.

Alternative and Advanced Options

  • Use Command Prompt to reset TCP/IP stack: Open Command Prompt as administrator and run these commands one by one: 
    netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns

    Restart your PC afterward.

  • Check for Windows updates: Updates can include fixes for network-related bugs. Go to Settings > Windows Update and install any available updates.
  • Test Ethernet on another device: This helps determine if the issue is with your PC or the network hardware.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is my Ethernet connection showing “No Internet” but still connected?

This usually means your PC is connected to the router but the router itself has no internet access. Restart your router and check your internet provider’s status.

How do I know if my Ethernet port is damaged?

If your PC doesn’t detect the Ethernet cable or the adapter shows errors in Device Manager, the port or hardware might be faulty. Try using a different port or device to confirm.

Can antivirus software block Ethernet connections?

Yes, some security programs may interfere with network access. Temporarily disable your antivirus and check if Ethernet works.

Is it better to use Ethernet or Wi-Fi on Windows 11?

Ethernet usually provides a more stable and faster connection, especially for gaming or streaming. Wi-Fi offers convenience but can be less reliable.

How do I find my Ethernet adapter name?

Open Device Manager and expand Network adapters. Look for names containing “Ethernet” or your network card manufacturer.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all these steps and your Ethernet still doesn’t work, consider the following:

  • Contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP): There may be outages or account issues affecting your connection.
  • Visit the official Microsoft support page: Fix Network Connection Issues in Windows 10 and 11
  • Consider professional hardware diagnostics: If the Ethernet port or network card is faulty, a technician may help repair or replace it.

Conclusion

Ethernet connectivity issues on Windows 11 can often be fixed with simple steps like checking cables, restarting devices, and running built-in troubleshooters. Keeping your drivers updated and resetting network settings can also resolve many problems.

Remember to start with basic checks and gradually move to advanced methods if needed. If all else fails, reach out to your ISP or Microsoft support for further assistance.

By following this guide, you should be able to restore your Ethernet connection and enjoy a reliable wired internet experience once again.

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