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How to Fix WiFi Connected but No Internet Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Connecting to WiFi but seeing no internet access can be frustrating. This problem often occurs even though your device shows it is connected to the wireless network. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to fix this issue on Windows 11.

This guide will walk you through each step carefully, ensuring you understand what to do and why it matters. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow along.

By the end, you should be able to restore your internet connection and browse as usual.

Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the troubleshooting steps.

Quick Note: Basic Checks Before Troubleshooting

  • Restart your router and modem: Sometimes, the internet connection simply needs a refresh. Turn off your router and modem, wait about 30 seconds, then turn them back on.
  • Check other devices: Verify if other devices connected to the same WiFi have internet access. If they don’t, the issue might be with your internet service provider (ISP).
  • Ensure Airplane Mode is off: On Windows 11, sometimes Airplane Mode can accidentally be turned on, disabling internet access.
  • Verify WiFi password: Make sure you are connected to the correct network with the right password.

Step 1: Run the Windows Network Troubleshooter

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

  1. Click on the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to Network & internet from the left menu.
  3. Scroll down and click on Advanced network settings.
  4. Under More settings, select Network troubleshooter.
  5. Follow the on-screen prompts to allow Windows to diagnose and attempt to fix the issue.

Why this helps: The troubleshooter checks for common problems like incorrect settings or disabled network adapters and attempts automatic fixes.

Step 2: Restart Your Network Adapter

Sometimes, simply turning the network adapter off and on again can resolve connectivity glitches.

  1. Open Settings and go to Network & internet.
  2. Click on Advanced network settings.
  3. Under Network adapters, click on Change adapter options.
  4. Right-click on your WiFi adapter (usually named “Wi-Fi”) and select Disable.
  5. Wait a few seconds, then right-click again and choose Enable.

Why this helps: Restarting the adapter refreshes its connection to the network and can clear temporary errors.

Step 3: Flush DNS and Reset TCP/IP Settings

Sometimes, incorrect DNS or IP settings can cause internet access issues even when connected to WiFi. Resetting these settings often fixes the problem.

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

After running these commands, restart your computer.

Why this helps: These commands clear the DNS cache, reset the IP stack, and renew your IP address, which can fix network conflicts and errors.

Step 4: Check Your Proxy Settings

Incorrect proxy settings can block your internet access. Windows sometimes enables proxies automatically or via software.

  1. Go to Settings > Network & internet > Proxy.
  2. Make sure both Automatically detect settings is turned on and Use a proxy server is turned off.

Why this helps: Disabling proxy servers clears routing issues that stop your device from accessing the internet.

Step 5: Update or Roll Back Network Drivers

Sometimes outdated or faulty drivers cause issues with network connectivity.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Network adapters section.
  3. Right-click your WiFi adapter and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers and let Windows find updates.
  5. If the problem started after a recent update, select Properties, go to the Driver tab, and choose Roll Back Driver.

Why this helps: Drivers allow your operating system to communicate with hardware. Keeping them updated or reverting problematic updates ensures smooth operation.

Alternative Method: Use Network Reset

If previous steps don’t help, you can reset your entire network settings.

  1. Open Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings.
  2. Scroll down and click Network reset.
  3. Click the Reset now button and confirm.
  4. Your PC will restart and reset all network adapters and settings to default.

Important: You will need to reconnect to your WiFi network again and re-enter passwords after this reset.

FAQs

Why does Windows say I’m connected to WiFi but have no internet?

This usually means your device is connected to the local router but cannot reach the internet due to issues with your ISP, router settings, or network configuration.

Can restarting my computer fix the issue?

Yes, restarting your PC can resolve temporary glitches affecting network connectivity.

Is it safe to reset network settings?

Yes, it only resets network adapters and settings without affecting your personal files. However, you will need to reconnect to WiFi networks afterward.

How do I know if the problem is with my ISP?

If multiple devices on the same network cannot access the internet, it’s likely an ISP or router issue. Contact your internet provider or check their status page for outages.

Can antivirus or firewall block internet access?

Sometimes, security software can interfere with network connections. Try temporarily disabling them to test if they are causing the problem.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the above steps and still experience the “WiFi connected but no internet” problem, consider these final options:

  • Contact your ISP: There might be an outage or issue on their end.
  • Check router firmware: Log into your router’s admin panel and look for firmware updates.
  • Use Windows Support: Visit the official Microsoft support page for more advanced troubleshooting: https://support.microsoft.com/windows.
  • Consider professional help: If you are unsure, a local technician can diagnose hardware or network setup issues.

Conclusion

Seeing a “WiFi connected but no internet” error on Windows 11 can be confusing, but it’s usually fixable with some simple steps. Start with basic checks and use Windows’ built-in tools to troubleshoot. If needed, reset your network settings or update drivers to resolve more complex issues.

Remember, understanding why each step is important helps you manage similar problems in the future. With patience and these instructions, you should be back online in no time.

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