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How to Fix “Incorrect PSK Provided for Network SSID” Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Seeing the “Incorrect PSK Provided for Network SSID” error on your Windows 11 device can be frustrating. This message means your computer is having trouble connecting to a Wi-Fi network because the password you entered is not being accepted. Thankfully, this problem can usually be fixed with a few simple steps.

In this guide, we will walk you through easy-to-understand solutions to help you connect back to your Wi-Fi. Each step is explained in detail, so even if you’re new to troubleshooting, you’ll be able to follow along.

By the end of this article, you should be able to resolve the error and enjoy a stable internet connection again. Let’s get started!

Remember, the key is to verify your password and adjust your settings carefully.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before diving into the fixes, there are a few quick things to check. These can save you time and avoid unnecessary troubleshooting.

  • Confirm the Wi-Fi Password: Double-check the password you are entering. It should match exactly, including capitalization and special characters.
  • Check Caps Lock and Keyboard Layout: Sometimes the Caps Lock key or keyboard language settings cause incorrect typing of the password.
  • Restart Your Router: A simple restart of your Wi-Fi router can resolve temporary glitches.
  • Make Sure You Are Connecting to the Correct Network: Sometimes networks with similar names can cause confusion.

Step 1: Forget and Reconnect to the Network

Forgetting the network removes the saved password on your device. This lets you enter the correct password fresh.

  1. Click on the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar at the bottom-right corner of your screen.
  2. Find your network SSID (the Wi-Fi name) in the list of available networks.
  3. Right-click on your network name and select Forget.
  4. Now, click on your network again and enter the correct password carefully.

This step ensures Windows 11 uses the updated password rather than an old or incorrect one.

Step 2: Check and Update Network Security Type

Sometimes the network security type settings cause connection issues. Windows must match the router’s security type to connect properly.

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Network & Internet > Wi-Fi > Hardware properties.
  3. Note the Security type listed here (e.g., WPA2-Personal).
  4. Access your router’s settings by typing its IP address into a web browser (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
  5. Log in with your router credentials (often found on the router itself).
  6. Navigate to the wireless or security settings and confirm the security type matches what Windows shows.
  7. If it doesn’t match, change the router’s security type to WPA2-Personal, which is commonly supported.
  8. Save your settings and restart your router.

Matching security types ensures your PC and router speak the same “language,” allowing a secure connection.

Step 3: Reset Network Settings

If forgetting the network and confirming security types doesn’t help, resetting network settings can clear corrupt configurations.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
  2. Go to Network & Internet > Advanced network settings.
  3. Click on Network reset at the bottom.
  4. Click Reset now and confirm when prompted.
  5. Your PC will restart and all network adapters and settings will return to default.
  6. After rebooting, reconnect to your Wi-Fi by entering the password again.

This step is helpful because it clears any conflicting settings that might be causing the PSK error.

Step 4: Manually Set the Wi-Fi Password Using Command Prompt

If the error persists, you can manually update the saved Wi-Fi password via the Command Prompt.

  1. Press Win + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following command to view all saved Wi-Fi profiles:
    3. netsh wlan show profiles
  3. Find your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) in the list.
  4. Next, enter this command to update the password (replace SSID_Name with your Wi-Fi name and new_password with your correct password):
    5. netsh wlan set profileparameter name="SSID_Name" keyMaterial=new_password
  5. Press Enter and wait for the confirmation message.
  6. Restart your computer and try connecting to the Wi-Fi network again.

This method directly changes the stored password for the network, bypassing any GUI-related issues.

Alternative Method: Use Windows Network Troubleshooter

If you are unsure about manual steps, Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can often detect and fix common network problems automatically.

  1. Right-click the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar.
  2. Select Troubleshoot problems.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions as Windows diagnoses and attempts to fix the issue.

While not always perfect, this tool is quick and easy to try before more advanced fixes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why am I getting “Incorrect PSK Provided” even though I entered the right password?

Sometimes Windows saves an old or corrupted password or there is a mismatch in security settings. Also, keyboard layout or Caps Lock issues can cause incorrect input.

Can restarting my computer fix this error?

Restarting can help by resetting temporary glitches, but if the password or settings are incorrect, the error will persist.

Is the router’s firmware related to this problem?

In some cases, outdated router firmware can cause connectivity issues. Updating firmware is an advanced step if other fixes fail.

Will resetting network settings delete my saved Wi-Fi passwords?

Yes, network reset removes all saved Wi-Fi passwords, so you will need to reconnect to your networks.

What if I don’t remember the Wi-Fi password?

You can check the password on another device already connected or access your router’s admin page to find or change it.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still see the “Incorrect PSK Provided for Network SSID” error, consider these final options:

  • Contact Your Internet Service Provider (ISP): They can help verify router settings or perform remote troubleshooting.
  • Reset Your Router to Factory Defaults: This erases all custom settings including passwords, so use this as a last resort.
  • Visit Microsoft Support: The official Windows support pages offer additional resources and updates: https://support.microsoft.com/windows
  • Check for Windows Updates: Sometimes system updates fix compatibility issues with network drivers.

Conclusion

The “Incorrect PSK Provided for Network SSID” error is usually caused by incorrect passwords or mismatched security settings. Starting with simple steps like forgetting the network and re-entering the password often fixes the problem. If that doesn’t work, resetting network settings or manually updating the password can help.

Always ensure your password is correct and your router’s security type matches your PC’s settings. Using the built-in troubleshooter can save time, but advanced methods like command prompt changes are available if needed.

By following these step-by-step solutions, you should be able to reconnect your Windows 11 device to your Wi-Fi network without hassle.

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