Spotify is a popular music streaming app, but sometimes it can show errors that stop you from listening. One common issue on Windows 11 is the “No Internet Connection Detected” error with code 4. This error means Spotify is having trouble connecting to the internet, even if your connection seems fine.
Fixing this error is usually straightforward and involves checking your internet settings and app permissions. Often, a few simple troubleshooting steps can get Spotify working again quickly.
In this guide, we will walk you through clear, easy-to-follow steps to resolve the Spotify error 4 on Windows 11. Each step includes explanations to help you understand why it matters.
By the end, you should be able to enjoy uninterrupted music streaming without this error.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks
- Make sure your Windows 11 device is connected to the internet. Try opening a website in your browser to confirm.
- Check that Spotify is updated to the latest version. Outdated software can cause connection problems.
- Restart your computer before starting the troubleshooting. This can fix temporary glitches.
- Disable any VPN or proxy services temporarily, as they can block Spotify’s connection.
Step 1: Check Your Internet Connection
Even if your browser works, Spotify may have trouble if the connection is unstable. Follow these basic checks:
- Open your web browser and visit multiple websites to confirm your internet is working.
- If using Wi-Fi, try moving closer to the router or restarting it to improve signal strength.
- Switch to a wired Ethernet connection if possible, as it is more stable than Wi-Fi.
Why this matters: Spotify needs a steady internet connection to stream music. If the connection drops or is weak, it can trigger error 4.
Step 2: Restart Spotify and Your Computer
Sometimes the app or your system may have temporary glitches that interfere with connectivity.
- Close Spotify completely. Right-click the Spotify icon in the taskbar and select “Quit.”
- Open Task Manager by pressing
Ctrl + Shift + Esc. Look for any Spotify processes and end them. - Restart your computer to clear any stuck processes or network issues.
- After reboot, open Spotify again and check if the error is resolved.
Why this matters: Restarting clears temporary software errors and refreshes your system’s network settings, which may fix the connection problem.
Step 3: Allow Spotify Through Windows Firewall
Windows Firewall may block Spotify from accessing the internet. You need to check and allow Spotify through the firewall.
- Press
Win + Sto open search, type Windows Defender Firewall, and open it. - Click on Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall on the left panel.
- Find Spotify in the list. Make sure both the Private and Public boxes are checked.
- If Spotify is not listed, click Allow another app…, browse to the Spotify installation folder (usually
C:Users[YourUser]AppDataRoamingSpotify), and add the Spotify.exe file. - Click OK to save changes and restart Spotify.
Why this matters: Firewalls block unauthorized apps from accessing the internet. Allowing Spotify ensures it can connect freely.
Step 4: Reset Network Settings
If your network settings are misconfigured, Spotify might not detect the internet correctly. Resetting them can help.
- Open Settings by pressing
Win + I. - Go to Network & Internet > Advanced network settings.
- Scroll down and click Network reset.
- Click Reset now and confirm. Your PC will restart automatically.
- After reboot, reconnect to your network and try Spotify again.
Why this matters: Network reset restores all network adapters and settings to default, fixing any hidden configuration issues that block Spotify.
Step 5: Disable Proxy Settings
Proxy servers can interfere with Spotify’s ability to connect to its servers.
- Press
Win + Ito open Settings. - Navigate to Network & Internet > Proxy.
- Under Manual proxy setup, make sure the Use a proxy server toggle is turned off.
- If it is on, switch it off and restart Spotify.
Why this matters: Disabling the proxy prevents Spotify from using incorrect or blocked routes to the internet.
Step 6: Clear Spotify Cache
Corrupted cache files sometimes cause errors in Spotify.
- Close Spotify completely.
- Press
Win + Rto open the Run dialog. - Type
%appdata%SpotifyUsersand press Enter. - Open the folder with a name similar to
spotify-user-xxxxxx. - Delete all files inside the cache folder.
- Restart Spotify and check if the error persists.
Why this matters: Clearing cache removes corrupted temporary files that can block proper app functioning.
Step 7: Reinstall Spotify
If none of the above steps work, try reinstalling Spotify.
- Press
Win + Iand go to Apps > Installed apps. - Find Spotify, click the three dots, and select Uninstall.
- After uninstalling, visit the official Spotify website and download the latest version.
- Install Spotify and log in again.
Why this matters: A fresh installation can fix corrupted files or settings causing the error.
Advanced Option: Use Command Prompt to Flush DNS
Sometimes DNS cache issues prevent apps from connecting properly.
- Press
Win + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator. - Type the following command and press Enter:
ipconfig /flushdns
- Wait for the confirmation message, then close the Command Prompt.
- Restart Spotify and check connectivity.
Why this matters: Flushing DNS clears outdated or incorrect domain name records, allowing Spotify to access the correct servers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does Spotify say “No Internet Connection” when my internet is working?
Spotify may encounter network or permission issues even if your internet works elsewhere. Firewall, proxy, or app glitches often cause this error.
Can antivirus software block Spotify’s internet access?
Yes, some antivirus programs may block Spotify. Temporarily disable antivirus or add Spotify to its exception list to test this.
Is this error specific to Windows 11?
No, Spotify error 4 can appear on other Windows versions, but Windows 11’s new network settings might require extra checks.
Does using a VPN cause Spotify error 4?
Sometimes. VPNs can interfere with connection routes, so try disabling your VPN to see if Spotify connects.
Will resetting network settings affect other apps?
Yes, resetting network settings removes all saved Wi-Fi networks and VPNs, so you’ll need to reconnect afterward.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the steps above and still face the “No Internet Connection Detected Spotify Error 4,” consider the following options:
- Contact Spotify Support directly via their official help page.
- Check for Windows 11 updates that might fix network bugs by going to Settings > Windows Update.
- Try using the Spotify web player at open.spotify.com as a temporary workaround.
- Consider creating a new Windows user profile to rule out profile-specific issues.
Conclusion
Spotify’s “No Internet Connection Detected Error 4” on Windows 11 is usually caused by network settings, firewall blocks, or app glitches. Starting with simple checks like verifying your internet connection and restarting your computer often resolves the issue.
Allowing Spotify through the firewall, disabling proxy settings, and clearing cache tackles common causes. If needed, resetting network settings or reinstalling the app can fix deeper problems.
By following this step-by-step guide patiently, you can restore Spotify’s connectivity and get back to enjoying your favorite music without interruptions.