How to Fix Linksys Router Not Broadcasting WiFi on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

If your Linksys router is not broadcasting WiFi on Windows 11, it can be frustrating and disruptive. This issue prevents your devices from connecting to the internet wirelessly. Fortunately, there are simple solutions you can try at home.

This guide will walk you through easy steps to get your wireless network up and running again. No advanced technical skills are required, and each step is explained clearly. Follow along to restore your WiFi connection quickly.

Understanding why your router might stop broadcasting WiFi can help you prevent future problems. Common reasons include incorrect settings, firmware glitches, or hardware issues. Let’s start fixing the issue now.

By the end of this article, you will know how to troubleshoot and resolve the problem with your Linksys router on Windows 11 effectively.

Quick Note: What to Check Before You Begin

Make sure your Linksys router is powered on and all cables are securely connected.
Confirm that your Windows 11 PC’s WiFi is turned on and airplane mode is off.
Check if other devices can see the WiFi network—this helps isolate if the problem is with the router or your PC.
Restart your PC and the router to clear temporary glitches before proceeding.

Step 1: Restart Your Linksys Router Properly

Restarting the router is the simplest fix and often resolves temporary issues causing WiFi not to broadcast.

Unplug the router’s power cable from the electrical outlet.
Wait for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. This allows the router to fully reset.
Plug the power cable back in and wait for the router lights to stabilize.
Check if your WiFi network appears on your Windows 11 device.

This step clears any temporary software glitches and refreshes the router’s settings.

Step 2: Verify WiFi Broadcast Settings in Router Admin Panel

Sometimes, the WiFi broadcast option might be turned off accidentally. Accessing the router’s admin panel helps you confirm and fix this.

Connect your PC to the router using an Ethernet cable for a stable connection.
Open your web browser and type 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 in the address bar, then press Enter.
Log in to the admin panel using your username and password (default is often admin for both, but check your router’s manual).
Navigate to the Wireless Settings or Wireless section.
Ensure that the option labeled Enable Wireless Radio or Wireless Broadcast is checked or turned on.
Save any changes and restart the router if prompted.

Disabling the wireless radio stops the router from broadcasting the WiFi network, so enabling it is essential.

Step 3: Update Router Firmware

Firmware updates fix bugs and improve router performance. An outdated firmware can cause WiFi broadcasting issues.

While connected via Ethernet, log in to the router admin panel as described previously.
Find the Firmware Update section, often under Administration or Maintenance.
Check if a new firmware version is available.
If available, follow the instructions to download and install the update.
Wait for the update process to complete and the router to reboot automatically.

Do not unplug the router during the update to avoid damaging the device.

Step 4: Reset Your Linksys Router to Factory Settings

If other steps don’t work, resetting the router clears all custom settings and restores original defaults. This often resolves deep configuration errors.

Locate the small reset button on the back of the router.
Use a paperclip or pin to press and hold the reset button for about 10 seconds.
Release the button and wait for the router to reboot (this can take a few minutes).
Once restarted, your router will have default settings, including WiFi broadcast enabled.
Reconnect to the default WiFi network name (SSID) and password, usually printed on the router label.

Resetting removes all personalized settings, so you may need to configure your network again, including WiFi name and password.

Step 5: Check Network Adapter Settings on Windows 11

Sometimes, the problem lies with your PC’s network adapter rather than the router.

Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
Expand the Network adapters section.
Right-click your wireless adapter and select Update driver.
Choose Search automatically for drivers and follow prompts if updates are found.
If the driver is up to date, right-click again and select Disable device, wait a moment, then Enable device.
Check WiFi availability again.

Ensuring your wireless adapter drivers are current helps maintain proper communication between Windows 11 and your router.

Alternative Method: Use Windows Network Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in tool to diagnose and fix network problems automatically.

Click the Start button and open Settings.
Go to Network & internet > Status.
Click on Network troubleshooter.
Follow the on-screen instructions to detect and fix issues.

This tool can identify common problems and recommend solutions without manual intervention.

FAQs

Why is my Linksys router not showing WiFi networks on Windows 11?

Your router may not be broadcasting WiFi due to disabled wireless settings, outdated firmware, or hardware issues. Additionally, your PC’s WiFi adapter could be disabled or malfunctioning.

Can I fix WiFi broadcast issues without resetting the router?

Yes. Restarting the router, checking wireless settings, and updating firmware often solve the problem without a factory reset.

What if only my Windows 11 PC cannot see the WiFi network?

Check your PC’s WiFi adapter status, update drivers, and run the Windows Network troubleshooter. Also, ensure airplane mode is off.

How do I find the default router login credentials?

The default username and password are usually printed on a label on the router. Common defaults are both set to admin, but check your model’s manual.

Is it safe to update router firmware?

Yes, firmware updates are safe and recommended to fix bugs and improve security. Always follow official instructions and do not interrupt the update process.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions fix the problem, consider contacting Linksys support for professional help. Your router may have a hardware fault requiring repair or replacement.

You can visit the official Linksys support page here: https://www.linksys.com/support/

Alternatively, if your router is old, upgrading to a newer model compatible with Windows 11 might solve ongoing connectivity issues.

Conclusion

Fixing a Linksys router that is not broadcasting WiFi on Windows 11 involves simple checks and steps. Start by restarting your router and verifying wireless settings in the admin panel. Update your router’s firmware and reset it to factory defaults if needed. Make sure your PC’s network adapter is functioning properly.

Using these step-by-step solutions, you can quickly restore your WiFi network and enjoy a stable internet connection. Remember to keep your router updated and maintain secure settings to prevent future problems.