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

If you are experiencing issues with your Fios internet connection on Windows 11, you are not alone. Sometimes, the connection might drop or fail to start without a clear reason. This guide will help you fix Fios not working on your Windows 11 device with simple and clear steps.

We will start with the easiest solutions and gradually move to more advanced troubleshooting. Even if you are not very tech-savvy, you can follow these instructions carefully.

Each step includes an explanation of why it is important so you understand the process better. By the end, you should be able to restore your Fios connection or know what to do next.

Let’s begin and get your internet working smoothly again.

Quick Note: Basic Checks Before Troubleshooting

  • Check your Fios router/modem: Make sure it is powered on and all cables are properly connected.
  • Verify service status: Sometimes Fios experiences outages. Check Verizon’s service status page or call support.
  • Restart your computer: A simple restart can often fix temporary glitches in Windows 11.
  • Confirm Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection: Ensure you are connected to the correct Wi-Fi network or Ethernet cable.

Step 1: Restart Your Router and PC

Restarting your router and computer is the simplest way to fix many internet problems. It refreshes the network connection and clears temporary errors.

  1. Turn off your Fios router by unplugging the power cable.
  2. Wait for about 30 seconds to 1 minute to let it fully reset.
  3. Plug the power back in and wait for the router to fully boot up (all lights stable).
  4. Restart your Windows 11 PC by clicking Start > Power > Restart.
  5. Once your PC is back on, try connecting to the internet again.

Step 2: Run Windows Network Troubleshooter

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

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Network Adapter and click Run.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

This tool resets network adapters and repairs misconfigurations that might be blocking your Fios connection.

Step 3: Check Network Adapter Settings

Your network adapter is the hardware that allows your computer to connect to the internet. Sometimes its settings can cause issues.

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Network adapters section.
  3. Right-click your Wi-Fi or Ethernet adapter and select Properties.
  4. Go to the Power Management tab.
  5. Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.
  6. Click OK and close Device Manager.

This ensures Windows does not disable your network adapter to save power, which can cause connection drops.

Step 4: Reset TCP/IP and Flush DNS

Sometimes network settings get corrupted. Resetting TCP/IP and clearing DNS cache can fix connectivity issues.

  1. Press Win + S, type cmd, then right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  2. In the Command Prompt window, type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns

These commands reset your IP settings and clear cached DNS data, which can resolve many network errors.

Step 5: Update Network Drivers

Outdated or corrupted network drivers can cause Fios connectivity problems. Updating them can help.

  1. Right-click the Start button and open Device Manager.
  2. Expand Network adapters.
  3. Right-click your network adapter and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers.
  5. If Windows finds an update, follow the prompts to install it.
  6. Restart your PC after updating.

If no updates are found, you can also visit your PC or network adapter manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers manually.

Step 6: Disable and Re-enable Network Adapter

This simple step can refresh your connection by temporarily disabling and then reactivating the network adapter.

  1. Open Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings.
  2. Click on More network adapter options.
  3. In the Network Connections window, right-click your active connection and select Disable.
  4. Wait a few seconds, then right-click again and select Enable.

This refreshes the adapter’s state and can fix minor glitches.

Step 7: Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Sometimes, security software mistakenly blocks internet access. Temporarily disabling them can help identify the issue.

  • Open your antivirus or firewall program.
  • Look for options to disable protection temporarily.
  • After disabling, check if Fios internet works.
  • If it does, you may need to add exceptions for your network or browser in the security software.

Important: Remember to re-enable your security software after testing to keep your PC protected.

Alternative Method: Use Network Reset

If nothing else works, Windows 11 offers a network reset feature that reinstalls network adapters and resets settings.

  1. Go to Settings > Network & internet.
  2. Scroll down and click Advanced network settings.
  3. Click Network reset.
  4. Click Reset now and confirm.
  5. Your PC will restart and reset all network configurations.

This step should be used only when other troubleshooting steps fail, as it removes saved Wi-Fi passwords and network settings.

FAQs

Why is my Fios internet not connecting on Windows 11?

There can be many reasons including router issues, incorrect network settings, outdated drivers, or Windows system errors. Following the steps above usually resolves the problem.

Can I fix Fios issues by reinstalling Windows 11?

Reinstalling Windows is a last resort and rarely needed for network issues. Try all troubleshooting steps before considering a system reinstall.

How do I check if the problem is with Fios or my PC?

Try connecting another device to your Fios network. If other devices also have issues, the problem is likely with Fios or your router.

Does Windows 11 have special settings for Fios?

No, Windows 11 does not require special settings for Fios. It works like any other internet connection once configured correctly.

What if my Ethernet connection is not working but Wi-Fi is?

Check the Ethernet cable and port for any damage. Also, try disabling and enabling the Ethernet adapter as described in Step 6.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and still cannot get your Fios internet working on Windows 11, it may be time to contact Verizon Fios support. They can check for outages, line issues, or send a technician if needed.

You can reach Verizon support by visiting their official support page or calling their customer service number.

Additionally, consider checking forums and communities like the Verizon Community Forums where many users share solutions for common problems.

Conclusion

Fixing Fios not working on Windows 11 can be straightforward if you follow the right steps. Start with basic checks and restarts, then move to troubleshooting tools and settings adjustments. Resetting network configurations or updating drivers often solves most problems.

Always remember to check for outages and keep your system updated. If all else fails, Verizon support is your best resource. With patience and these detailed instructions, you should be able to enjoy a stable Fios internet connection on your Windows 11 PC again.

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