How to Fix Internet Disconnection Errors on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Internet disconnection errors on Windows 11 can be frustrating, especially when you rely on a stable connection for work or entertainment. These issues can happen for various reasons, from simple glitches to network settings problems. Luckily, many common disconnection problems can be fixed with a few straightforward steps.

This guide will walk you through easy, detailed instructions to help you restore your internet connection on Windows 11. Each step is explained clearly, so you don’t need to be a tech expert to follow along.

By following this guide, you’ll learn how to identify and solve common causes of internet disconnections. Let’s get started and get you back online smoothly.

Before diving into fixes, it’s helpful to understand some basic checks and requirements that can save time.

Quick Note: Preliminary Checks Before Troubleshooting

Check Your Router and Modem: Make sure your router and modem are powered on and the indicator lights show normal activity. Restart them if needed by unplugging for 30 seconds and plugging back in.
Confirm Wi-Fi or Ethernet Connection: Verify that your device is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network or properly plugged in via Ethernet cable.
Test Other Devices: See if other devices can connect to the internet using the same network. This helps determine if the problem is with your PC or the network itself.
Ensure Windows 11 is Updated: Sometimes, connection issues happen due to outdated system files. Check for Windows updates in Settings > Windows Update.

Step 1: Run the Windows Network Troubleshooter

The easiest and quickest way to fix many internet issues is by using Windows 11’s built-in troubleshooter. It automatically detects and repairs common problems.

Click the Start button and select Settings.
Go to System and then click on Troubleshoot.
Select Other troubleshooters.
Find Internet Connections and click Run.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Why this matters: The troubleshooter checks your network settings and hardware for simple errors and fixes them automatically, saving you time.

Step 2: Restart Your Network Adapter

Sometimes, your network adapter (the hardware that connects your PC to the internet) can get stuck or misconfigured. Restarting it can resolve temporary glitches.

Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
Expand the Network adapters section.
Right-click your active network adapter (usually contains “Wi-Fi” or “Ethernet”) and select Disable device.
Wait about 10 seconds, right-click it again, and choose Enable device.
Check if your internet connection is restored.

Why this matters: Disabling and enabling the adapter refreshes its state and can fix issues like driver conflicts or temporary errors.

Step 3: Reset TCP/IP Stack and Flush DNS

Network communication relies on protocols like TCP/IP and DNS. Corrupted settings here can cause connection drops. Resetting these can clear such issues.

Type cmd in the Windows search bar.
Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
In the command window, type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:

netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns

After running these commands, restart your computer and check your internet connection.

Why this matters: Resetting the TCP/IP stack and flushing DNS cache removes any corrupt or outdated network data that might block internet access.

Step 4: Update Network Adapter Drivers

Outdated or faulty drivers can cause unstable internet connections. Updating drivers ensures your hardware works properly with Windows 11.

Open Device Manager again (Windows + X > Device Manager).
Expand Network adapters.
Right-click your network adapter and select Update driver.
Choose Search automatically for drivers.
If a new driver is found, install it and restart your PC.

Alternative: You can also visit your PC manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers manually.

Step 5: Disable Power Saving for Network Adapter

Windows may turn off your network adapter to save power, which can cause unexpected disconnections. Disabling this feature can help.

Go to Device Manager.
Right-click your network adapter and select Properties.
Click the Power Management tab.
Uncheck the box for “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power”.
Click OK and restart your PC.

Why this matters: Preventing the adapter from powering down avoids interruptions in your internet connection caused by power-saving measures.

Step 6: Check Network Settings (IP and DNS)

Incorrect IP or DNS settings can block internet access. Setting them to automatic often solves problems.

Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go to Network & Internet, then select Advanced network settings.
Click More network adapter options.
Right-click your active network and select Properties.
Scroll and select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), then click Properties.
Ensure Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically are selected.
Click OK to apply changes.

Why this matters: Automatic settings allow your router to assign correct IP and DNS information, which is essential for internet access.

Step 7: Temporarily Disable Firewall or Antivirus

Sometimes, firewall or antivirus programs block internet access by mistake. Temporarily disabling them can help identify if they’re causing the issue.

Important: Only do this briefly and make sure to re-enable protection afterward to keep your PC safe.

Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
Go to Firewall & network protection.
Click your active network profile and toggle Microsoft Defender Firewall off.
Test your internet connection.
If using third-party antivirus, open its settings and temporarily disable internet protection.

FAQs

Why does my internet keep disconnecting on Windows 11?

Frequent disconnections can happen due to outdated drivers, incorrect network settings, hardware issues, or interference from software like firewalls.

How do I know if the problem is with my PC or the internet provider?

Check if other devices on the same network can access the internet. If they can’t, the issue is likely with your internet provider or router.

Can Wi-Fi signal strength cause disconnections?

Yes, weak Wi-Fi signals or interference from other devices can cause unstable connections. Moving closer to the router or reducing interference may help.

Is resetting the network adapter safe?

Yes, it simply refreshes your network hardware and settings without deleting personal files.

Should I update to the latest Windows 11 version to fix connection problems?

Keeping Windows updated ensures you have the latest fixes and improvements, which can help resolve network issues.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the steps above and your internet still disconnects, consider the following:

Contact your Internet Service Provider: There might be outages or issues on their end.
Reset Your Network Completely: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset. This will remove and reinstall all network adapters and reset settings.
Seek Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support site for advanced help.
Consider Hardware Issues: Faulty network cards or cables may require replacement.

Conclusion

Internet disconnection errors on Windows 11 can often be fixed with simple, step-by-step solutions. Starting with basic troubleshooting like running the network troubleshooter and restarting your adapter can resolve many issues quickly. Resetting network settings and updating drivers address deeper problems, while checking firewall settings helps rule out software blocks.

By following this guide carefully, you can fix most connection problems on your own without needing technical support. Remember to perform preliminary checks and keep your system updated to maintain a stable internet experience. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to reach out to your ISP or Microsoft support for assistance.