how to fix network problem in laptop

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How to Fix It When Your Laptop Won’t Connect to Wi-Fi

Even when your other devices are connecting fine

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Your laptop may not connect to Wi-Fi in a few ways:

• Your laptop may not see the available Wi-Fi network.
• When you try to connect to a Wi-Fi network, you may see it's connected, but there's no internet access.
• Your laptop may show an error saying authentication to the Wi-Fi network failed.

Issues with connecting to Wi-Fi typically occur when you're first trying to connect to a new network or after you've deleted a Wi-Fi connection and are trying to connect again.

Cause of Laptop Not Connecting to Wi-Fi

There are many potential causes when a laptop won't connect to Wi-Fi. The most common one relates to correctly authenticating with the target network.

Other possible causes include faulty Wi-Fi network configuration, a malfunctioning modem or router, corrupt or failing network hardware or drivers, or antivirus software or firewall blocking your connection.

How to Fix Laptop Not Connecting to Wi-Fi

This issue applies to laptops running Windows, Mac, or Linux. These fixes may also work for other devices like smartphones or tablets.

Does your laptop not connect to Wi-Fi when other devices will? If this is the case, you can step the first step below. You should only restart your modem and router if no device can connect to the network. Otherwise, you'll need to troubleshoot the laptop itself.

Restart your modem and router . When left running for long periods, a modem and router can fail and either drop its internet connection or drop the Wi-Fi network. A reset will often repair this issue. If all your devices still can't connect to Wi-Fi, you may need to do a hard reset of your router or reconfigure your router .

Ensure Wi-Fi is turned on . If your laptop has a hardware switch to control Wi-Fi, make sure this is on.

If you've configured your Wi-Fi adapter so that it doesn't automatically connect to your Wi-Fi network , you'll need to connect manually.

Move your laptop closer to the Wi-Fi router. If you can't reposition your laptop, make sure your router is in the best location in your home so all devices can connect to it.

Check your Wi-Fi network connection password . If your password is wrong (or someone changed it), you won't be able to connect.

Don't see the Wi-Fi connection at all? Add a new Wi-Fi network , select your home Wi-Fi, and type the correct password to connect.

Reboot your Windows laptop or reboot your Mac . You can reboot a Linux laptop from the command line .

Change your laptop's Wi-Fi channel . Most users keep their Wi-Fi adapter working on the 2.4 GHz band, but the 5 GHz band may be required to connect to your network.

Reset your Wi-Fi driver . Doing this will clear the network cache and hopefully remove any connection errors.

Update your Wi-Fi driver . Network connection issues often result from outdated Wi-Fi drivers, and an update can resolve this. To simplify this process, you could use free driver updater tools to update all drivers on your laptop at once.

Release and renew your IP address . You'll do this using the IPCONFIG command , which will drop any IP address your router has registered for your device and create a new one. It could clear any issues your router may have in allowing the connection from your old IP address.

Run the network troubleshooter . You can access this by right-clicking the network connection and choosing Diagnose, Repair, or Diagnose and Repair. On Mac, this tool is called the Wireless Diagnostics app . These built-in troubleshooting tools will often automatically resolve any Wi-Fi connection problems.

Disable your antivirus or firewall software. You'll also want to try disabling the Windows firewall and turning off Windows Defender .

If your hotel limits the Wi-Fi connection to one device only and you've already logged on with another gadget, try disconnecting on that device and connecting to hotel Wi-Fi using the laptop. If you have two Windows laptops, you could share the connection by  turning a laptop into a Wi-Fi extender ; go to  Settings  >  Network & internet  > and toggle on  Mobile hotspot .

Some public networks require agreeing to terms of service on an authorization page to connect; open a web browser if this page doesn't automatically launch or forget the network and try reconnecting. Select the  Wi-Fi  icon >  Open Network Preferences  >  Advanced  > and choose the  minus sign  beside the name to  delete a network on a Mac . Or, right-click the network icon in the taskbar and select  Network and internet settings  >  Wi-Fi  >  Manage known networks  >  Forget  to  forget a network in Windows 11 . 

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8 Easy-to-Do Ways to Troubleshoot Network Connection

You'll be up and running in no time

A faulty Wi-Fi connection doesn’t have to ruin your day. There are plenty of ways you can restore a lost internet connection. Follow these network troubleshooting tips and you’ll be up and running in no time.

1. Check Your Settings

First, check your Wi-Fi settings. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi . Switch Wi-Fi to the On position.

Phones and tablets also have settings that turn Wi-Fi on and off. Make sure that it is turned on so you can connect to the network.

You also want to check if Airplane Mode is turned on.

2. Check Your Access Points

Check your WAN (wide area network) and LAN (local area network) connections. In layman’s terms, these are the Ethernet cables that go to and from your router.

If you suspect that the cables are the culprit, try swapping them out with new ones.

3. Go Around Obstacles

Walls, furniture, and other obstructions can be the reason why you’re unable to go online. Moving closer to the router can re-establish the connection. If moving closer to the router does not solve the issue, then at least we can remove it from the list of suspects.

4. Restart the Router

Sometimes restarting the router can help fix connectivity issues. This is even truer in cases where the router has not been turned off in a while. A quick restart can jolt the router back into working like it used to.

If that doesn’t work, you might also consider resetting the router. But only do so if you’re okay with it being restored to its factory settings. You will have to reconfigure everything including the SSID and password.

5. Check the Wi-Fi Name and Password

Check the network name (otherwise known as SSID) and password of the network connection. If you’re used to connecting automatically when in range of a router but are no longer able to, changes may have been made to the network while you’re away.

It could be as simple as administrators updating the password or the SSID could have been changed to a different one.

6. Check DHCP Settings

Routers are usually set up as DHCP servers. This setting lets computers join a network automatically. With DHCP turned on, users will no longer have to mess with IP Address and DNS Server settings manually.

To edit your DHCP settings, go to Windows Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi . Under Wi-Fi , click Manage Known Networks . Select a network and click Properties .

Under IP Settings , click Edit . From the drop-down menu, select Automatic (DHCP) .

Note: Selecting Manual will let you set your DNS Server Address and IP Address settings manually.

7. Update Windows

Your network problems could be caused by your system. If that is the case, Windows could have possibly released a fix. Try updating your Windows machine to the latest release.

Go to Windows Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update . Click Check for Updates . If there are updates available, Windows will download and install them.

8. Open Windows Network Diagnostics

Windows has a tool called Windows Network Diagnostics that lets users troubleshoot connection issues.

Go to Windows Settings > Network & Internet > Status . Under Change Your Network Settings , click Network Troubleshooter .

Windows Network Diagnostics will run a couple of tests to see what’s possibly causing your Wi-Fi issues.

Windows will let you know if it does not find any issue. Otherwise, you will be given a list of possible actions to take to resolve the problem.

This tool, or a version of it, should be available in Windows 7 to Windows 10.

Christopher Jan Benitez is a freelance writer for hire who provides actionable and useful web content to small businesses and startups. In his spare time, he religiously watches professional wrestling and finds solace in listening to '80s speed metal. Read Christopher's Full Bio

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No Internet Connection? How to Troubleshoot Internet Issues

It’s incredibly frustrating when your internet isn’t working. Whether you’re hooked up to Wi-Fi but without internet access or you’re having trouble with a wired Ethernet connection, we’ll show you the quickest methods to identify the problem and get back online.

When it comes to internet troubleshooting, you can either methodically work your way through the troubleshooting steps or just start trying fixes until something works. While methodical troubleshooting is better for getting to the bottom of an issue once and for all, sometimes you just need to get back online ASAP. We’ll start with our top five internet quick fixes and then walk you through a more thorough troubleshooting process if you’re still having issues.

In the troubleshooting guide, we’ll first help you diagnose whether you have an internet signal issue or a problem with your Wi-Fi . Once you’ve discovered which type of problem you have, continue to either the internet signal troubleshooting section or the Wi-Fi troubleshooting section . If you’re still stumped, use our advanced troubleshooting section for particularly tricky circumstances.

Lastly, you can jump straight to our complete list of internet fixes and try each one until you’re back online.

Possible Problems:

• Is it your internet signal or your Wi-Fi?
• Connected to Wi-Fi but no internet access

Wi-Fi troubleshooting

Advanced troubleshooting.

Complete list of internet fixes

Top 5 quick fixes for internet issues

1. Restart your modem and router or internet gateway (modem/router combo) An equipment restart is the golden rule of internet troubleshooting. This should always be your first step; it’s simple, easy, and incredibly effective.  See instructions.

2. Check your wires and cables Loose or damaged cables can cause a wide range of internet issues. Sometimes the fix is as simple as tightening a connection, other times you may need to replace a cable or require the help of a broadband technician. See instructions.

3. Move your router to a better spot If you’re using the internet over Wi-Fi, router placement is crucial. Sometimes moving your router just a few feet or changing the angle of the antennae can make a world of difference. See instructions.

4. Test a different website or online activity The problem may be with the app, service, or website you’re trying to access. If only one website or service is acting up, your connection is probably fine.

5. Check for an outage If the problem is on your internet provider’s end, you can’t do anything to fix it. Make sure to check for outages before getting too deep into your troubleshooting efforts. See instructions. 

Is the problem with your internet signal or your Wi-Fi?

Internet signal issues have different fixes than Wi-Fi issues—so, it’s important to find out which you’re dealing with. Examples of internet signal issues include problems with the signal coming from your ISP, modem issues, and issues with the wiring in and around your home. Wi-Fi issues are problems with your router’s wireless signal, such as interference from obstructions, too much distance between the router and devices, or interference from other networks and electronics.

You can tell an internet signal issue from a Wi-Fi issue with a few key troubleshooting steps.

Check the lights on your equipment

Nearly all modems, routers, and internet gateways have LED status lights. Your equipment may also have just one led light, in which case, the light’s behavior or color is often used to signal different statuses. ISPs usually provide a guide to interpreting the behavior of their rental equipment. If you purchased your own equipment, consult the manual.

Either way, the LED status lights on your equipment are very helpful for quickly diagnosing network problems.

Check the internet signal light

The light for an internet connection is on your modem and is usually labeled WAN, Internet, or with a globe icon, and you can tell the internet is on if the light (usually white or green) is solid.

If the light is red or not on at all, you have an internet signal problem as your modem isn’t successfully connecting to the internet. If this is you, skip ahead to our internet signal troubleshooting section .

Check the Wi-Fi light

The WiFi light(s) will be on your router or somewhere below the internet connection light if you have a modem/router combo unit. Labels for Wi-Fi lights vary but usually will read “2.4G” and “5G,” “WLAN,” or “Wireless.” These lights should be on and are usually blinking. If the Wi-Fi light(s) are off or red, your router isn’t broadcasting a signal. Skip to the Wi-Fi troubleshooting section to begin troubleshooting.

If the equipment lights aren’t revealing your internet issue, read on for the next steps.

A lot of internet issues can be remedied quickly by simply restarting your modem and router. It’s an easy fix that’s always worth a shot.

To restart your modem and router, unplug the power cable for 10 seconds and plug it back in. The equipment will take a few minutes to reboot.

Try using an Ethernet cable to test your connection

If you’re on Wi-Fi, try plugging your computer directly into your router with an Ethernet cable. This is the tried and true way to differentiate signal issues from Wi-Fi issues. Connect the Ethernet cable to the port on your computer, and plug the other end into one of the LAN ports on your router (these are usually yellow). Connecting the computer directly to the single port on a modem bypasses essential security measures built into the router. You need to connect to a router or modem/router combo unit to remain protected online.

If your internet comes back when you use a wired Ethernet connection, then you have a Wi-Fi problem; continue to our Wi-Fi troubleshooting section . If you still don’t have internet, the problem is likely bigger than your Wi-Fi, but it might still just be your device. Try accessing the web on a different device. If you still can’t get online, move on to our internet signal troubleshooting section to solve the problem.

Check for an internet outage

It could be that you’re not the only one whose internet is down. You can find information about internet outages on the website Down Detector , or you can contact your internet service provider (ISP) to investigate.

The site or service you’re trying to access could also be down. Try a few different websites. If they load properly, the original website you went to could be down for all visitors. (You can confirm this by typing in the URL at downforeveryoneorjustme.com .)

If the internet is down in your area, you may be able to use your cell phone as a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot to get online. You can also go outside in search of a public Wi-Fi hotspot to connect to. Take a look at our Wi-Fi hotspot guide for more details.

Wi-Fi connected but no internet?

If you’re connected to your Wi-Fi but still don’t have internet access, there’s probably something wrong with your internet signal. The same is true if you’re unable to access the internet using a wired connection. Try these fixes first.

Restart your modem, router, and device

Restarting your modem and router should be the first thing you do when encountering an internet signal issue. Don’t skip this step! This is almost always what tech support will ask you to try first, as it often solves the problem.

To restart your equipment, unplug the power cable for 60 seconds and plug it back in. The equipment will take a few minutes to reboot. It’s also a good idea to restart the device you’re using.

Check your cables and wires

Wires and cables often become loose or damaged from repeated stress. The cable feeding the internet to your modem is either a coaxial cable (the same used for cable TV), an Ethernet cable, or a phone cable. The best way to troubleshoot cables is to swap them all out, if you have extras.

Otherwise, make sure to connect these cables to both the modem and your wall outlet. Ethernet and phone cables should click when they are fully inserted into a socket. Coaxial cables should be screwed on snugly.

Also, check for damage. See if the cable looks torn or perhaps chewed by a pet. Ethernet and phone cables are especially prone to damage, as the copper wires inside are very thin.

Ethernet cables aren’t all the same, and it’s important to get the right type of Ethernet cable for the job. See our Ethernet cable article to make sure you have the right one.

When should you contact your provider?

It’s a good idea to try some basic troubleshooting before contacting your provider. Restarting your modem and checking wires will likely be the first things tech support asks you to do anyway. But if you can’t solve the problem on your own, it’s time to contact your provider for a little help.

If your ISP isn’t experiencing an outage, it can run a diagnostic on your modem to see if it’s properly communicating with the network. They may discover many possible issues, including a low signal level, device registration issues, obsolete equipment (even if you rent it from the ISP), or a glitch in the system. You may have just forgotten to pay your internet bill.

Most large ISPs also have online/chat support options through their websites and apps, if you’d rather not sit on the phone.

If you’re still having issues after trying these common fixes, move on to our advanced troubleshooting section further down the page.

Fed up with internet problems? Check out your other options.

Enter your zip code below to see all the internet providers available in your area.

You’ve figured out something’s wrong with your Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi gets tricky. It’s radio waves being broadcast by your router and a number of things can interfere with those waves. Try these common fixes first.

Restart your router

This fix works so often that it’s always worth trying first. The process is the same as restarting a modem: unplug the router or gateway, wait 60 seconds, and plug it back in. It will take several minutes to reboot.

Switch Wi-Fi bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)

Your router likely transmits Wi-Fi over two frequency bands: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Try switching from the frequency band you’re on to the other. This helps you avoid temporary interference while also resetting the connection between your device and router. It’s a common convention for the 5 GHz network to have a “5G” label following the network name (i.e., “Jane’s Wi-Fi [5G]). The 2.4 GHz band is commonly labeled with your network name (i.e. “Jane’s Wi-Fi) without a frequency label.

Each frequency band has its strengths and weaknesses. Basically, 5 GHz Wi-Fi is faster but doesn’t travel as far. 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi travels farther but is slower than 5 GHz and more susceptible to radio interference. So, if you’re far from the router try the 2.4 GHz, and if you need more speed and are within range, give the 5 GHz a try.

Test your Wi-Fi on different devices

If you’re on your laptop, use your phone or tablet to see if you can get online over the same Wi-Fi connection. If it connects on one device but not the other, then you know that your internet Wi-Fi is fine and it’s the disconnected device that’s having the problem.

Try a different Ethernet cable

If you have a spare Ethernet cable, swap it out with the one currently plugged into your modem and router and see if it makes a difference. Cables don’t last forever, and it could be that your current Ethernet cable has kicked the bucket and needs to be replaced.

Need a recommendation on a good replacement cable? This Cat-6 Ethernet cable is fast, sturdy, and affordable. You could also check out our article on the best Ethernet cables to learn more.

Amazon.com Price (as of 10/21/2021 10:15 MST). See full disclaimer .

Improve the position of your device and/or router

For router placement, the key factors to consider are distance, elevation, and obstructions. So, when picking a spot for your router, choose somewhere central and elevated relative to your devices. Furthermore, do your best to avoid placing the router near any electronic devices (especially microwaves) or any disruptive surfaces.

Wi-Fi radio waves get weaker the farther they travel. You want to have your device well within your router’s broadcast range. The Wi-Fi signal meter on your device helps you judge the strength of the current Wi-Fi signal.

It’s also important to place the router as high as possible. The router’s signal broadcast isn’t a straight line to your device. The signal shines out like light from a bulb, creating a dome of Wi-Fi. A higher router means a wider broadcast and better coverage of your home.

Certain obstructions and devices can also interfere with Wi-Fi signals. Wi-Fi can easily pass through wood and drywall, but tile, metal, concrete, and especially water are known to interfere with Wi-Fi signals. Microwaves, baby monitors, and cordless phones are also Wi-Fi killers when they’re running.

See our article on where to place your router to learn more about finding that perfect spot for your Wi-Fi machine.

If none of those quick fixes did the trick, there’s still plenty of things to try. Keep in mind that your problem may have more than one cause. That’s why we recommend going through the above steps first, as they are the most common fixes for internet issues.

Below are some of the rarer internet issues. These can be tough to diagnose, so it’s best to just try each one out until something works.

Run the internet troubleshooter (for Windows)

If you’re on Windows, run the built-in troubleshooter program to see if your computer can fix the issue for you. For Windows 10, click to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot, and then select the troubleshooter for Internet Connections.

Run Apple Diagnostics or Apple Hardware Test (for macOS)

Most Mac computers have a built-in diagnostic program that will scan your computer for issues, including problems with Wi-Fi. It’s called Apple Diagnostics on models from 2013 and later and Apple Hardware Test on models from 2012 with at least OS X 10.8.4.

To run Apple Diagnostics, disconnect any Ethernet cables and external drives, hit restart, and hold down the D key as the computer reboots. Pick a language, and then the diagnostic will launch automatically.

You can launch the Apple Hardware Test in a similar way. The only difference is that you should press Return or the right arrow button when the screen for the test appears as your computer is restarting and you’re given the prompt to choose a language.

Clear your DNS cache

The DNS cache is a digital log your browser uses as a shortcut to quickly load web pages you’ve visited before. But your cache can create technical issues if there’s a glitch or online malware has inserted uninvited URLs into your cache.

Here’s how to clear your cache on different devices:

Go to the Command Prompt by doing one of these things:

Option 1: Type “cmd” into the search bar

Option 2: Find the Command Prompt shortcut in the Windows System folder

Option 3: Type “cmd” into the Run window.

Once you’re in the Command Prompt, type in “ipconfig /flushdns.” Hit Enter to flush the cache.

Run the Terminal app. You can find it one of these ways:

Option 1: Open Terminal in the Utilities folder.

Option 2: Search “Terminal” using the Spotlight function.

In the Terminal app, enter the command to flush your cache. The command you’ll type can be slightly different depending on your Mac operating system (OS):

Yosemite and after: sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

Yosemite 10.10–10.10.3: sudo discoveryutil mdnsflushcache

Mavericks, Mountain Lion, Lion: sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

Snow Leopard: sudo dscacheutil -flushcache

You’ll be prompted to enter in the administrator password for your account. Then your cache is flushed—and hopefully any glitches with it.

Smartphones

On an iPhone or Apple device, there are two easy ways to clear your DNS cache:

Option 1: Switch on and then switch off Airplane Mode.

Option 2: Restart your device.

For Android devices, here’s how you clear your DNS cache:

Step 1: Type “chrome://net-internals/#dns” into the URL bar in Chrome.

Step 2: Tap the DNS menu.

Step 3: Click Clear Host Cache.

After you’ve cleared your cache, test your connection to see if it’s back online.

Is your connection as fast as you need?

You can always download our speed test app to see if your internet speeds match those offered on your monthly internet plan.

You can always take our speed test to see if your internet speeds match those offered on your monthly internet plan.

Scan for viruses and malware

Run a scan to see if malware or a virus is on your computer. Malicious programs can use up a lot of your bandwidth or block your internet connection entirely. McAfee , Norton , and Bitdefender all make quality antivirus software.

Switch off your antivirus software

We definitely recommend keeping antivirus software activated on your computer. However, misconfigured antivirus protections can sometimes interfere with your internet connection, so try turning off your antivirus software or firewall to see if the internet comes back.

Use a different Wi-Fi channel

This is especially important for those living in apartments and other living situations where there are multiple routers in the same area. Routers automatically select a frequency channel on which to broadcast your Wi-Fi. If there are other devices and routers nearby, these channels can become overcrowded.

To assess the best channel for your home, you’ll need to use a Wi-Fi channel analyzer. There are many free Android apps (iOS doesn’t allow it, unfortunately) that can do this. The channel analyzer will tell you what channels are being heavily used. Once you find a relatively open channel, change the channel in your router’s settings. See our article on how to log in to your router if you need some help with this.

See what’s on your Wi-Fi network

There may be a device on your Wi-Fi network that’s hogging the bandwidth or creating other connectivity problems. Your router might also limit how many devices can be connected at once, and it could be kicking devices off the network as a result.

To find out what’s on your network, log in to your router’s interface (use your cell phone if you can’t get Wi-Fi on your computer or connect via Ethernet) and look for a list labeled with a term like “DHCP clients,” “connected devices,” or “attached devices.” Usually, the name of the devices being used are included on the list (example: “Peter’s iPhone,” “Rebecca’s Macbook,” or “Computer 1”).

You can then figure out who’s using the Wi-Fi and ask everyone in your household if they’re doing anything that’s taking up too much internet speed.

Many routers let you kick devices off the Wi-Fi, so go ahead and give a user the boot if you don’t know them or they’re causing problems. You can also change the Wi-Fi password so they can’t get back on.

Internet running slow?

If you’re experiencing repeated slowdowns and outages, you may have an internet plan that’s too slow. Take our “How much speed do I need?” test to see if you’re paying for enough internet bandwidth to deliver the goods.

Make sure you have a working IP address

There’s a chance your computer is having trouble configuring a valid IP address. Your computer needs a unique IP to get on the internet, but you won’t be able to get online if multiple devices are assigned the same IP or if something has prevented your computer from assigning one. It’s not a particularly common issue, but it can happen—especially if you have multiple routers on the same home network.

To ensure you have a valid IP address, use the instructions in our article on how to find your IP address .

Force open the network’s login page (for public Wi-Fi)

Hotels, airports, and cafes often provide free internet—usually, all you have to do is open your browser and sign on to the public Wi-Fi network through a login screen. But what if that login page refuses to load?

You can force open the login page by typing one of these codes into your browser’s address bar:

• 192.168.1.1
• http://localhost

Get fiber internet

Fiber internet is by far the fastest and most reliable internet you can get. So if you can get a fiber internet package for your home, we highly recommend you go for it, since it will vastly reduce the chance of annoying slowdowns and service outages that are more common on other internet connection types.

You can get speeds of anywhere from 100 Mbps to 1,000 Mbps on a fiber connection, giving you ample bandwidth to cover a range of activities and tasks while also supporting many other users on your Wi-Fi. Prices range from $35 per month to $100 per month.

Fiber isn’t available everywhere, unfortunately. But if you frequently have problems with your connection, it could be worth looking into some kind of upgrade or switching providers.

Enter your zip code to see what other internet options are in your area. It may be worth switching internet providers if you experience frequent technical glitches.

Upgrade your equipment

You may experience connection issues if you have outdated equipment that doesn’t match the latest wireless standards: 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) or 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6). You’ll also want to ensure that your modem supports DOCSIS 3.0 protocol or newer (for cable internet).

You may have issues with an older router, computer, or other Wi-Fi device that doesn’t adhere to recent wireless standards. In that case, you may want to invest in a new router. Or your computer may need a new wireless adapter (a device that lets you connect to a Wi-Fi network).

Here’s how to check the wireless standard of your computer:

Step 1: Hold down Option while clicking on the Apple menu in the top left of the screen, then select System Information.

Step 2: Scroll down to Network, click Wi-Fi in the drop-down menu, and look for the readout for Supported PHY Modes. This will tell you what wireless standard your computer is outfitted for.

Step 1: Right-click on the Start menu button and then click the command for Device Manager. (Or type “Device Manager” into the search bar in the Start menu—either way works.)

Step 2: Once you’re in Device Manager, click on the menu titled Network adapters and look for the listing of your wireless adapter and the wireless standard it’s set to.

Reset your equipment to factory settings

If you’ve tried everything else to no avail, it may be time to reset your router or gateway to its factory settings. This is a pretty big step because it will restore the router/gateway to the way it was when you first pulled it out of the box, wiping the slate clean.

Resetting your router will erase your password and issue a default one (which you will then want to change for security reasons). It will also erase any memory of custom features or guest networks you’ve set up through the router, and it will kick off all the devices that were signed onto the network.

Getting everything back up and running again will take a chunk of time out of your day, so this is worth trying only if you have no other options.

Anyway, here’s how you do it. Use a safety pin or paperclip to push the button hidden in the tiny hole at the back of the router. Hold it down for a few moments until the status lights go out and begin to reset.

Even if your internet is working fine, there are always ways to make your Wi-Fi connection even better. Take a look at our tips on how to improve your Wi-Fi bandwidth .

Reset your computer’s network settings (a.k.a. the nuclear option)

If all else fails, it’s time to reset your computer’s network entirely. This changes everything back to default settings. It’s not the most convenient option, but it could be the fix you need to start from scratch and erase the Wi-Fi bugs once and for all.

Keep in mind that this isn’t like turning off the computer and turning it back on. In the same way that resetting your router restores that equipment to factory settings, restoring your network totally wipes out your computer’s Wi-Fi settings, bringing it back to how it was when you were just setting it up for the first time.

Your computer will forget your network settings, including your Wi-Fi network’s name, passwords, and VPN settings. Do this only as a last resort. Make sure you save your passwords and other necessary info before doing the reset.

OK, then. Ready? Alright, here’s how to do it:

How to reset your Wi-Fi network on Mac

Step 1: Click Apple menu > System Preferences > Network.

Step 2: Click on Wi-Fi in the drop-down menu on the left of the screen

Step 3: Hit the minus (-) button to remove it. Then add it again by clicking the plus button (+) and selecting Wi-Fi in the Interface options.

Step 4: Hit Apply and close out of the Network settings.

How to reset your Wi-Fi network on Windows

Step 1: Click to Windows Settings > Network & Internet > Status.

Step 2: Hit the Network reset button.

Step 3: Hit Reset now to confirm.

Step 4: Hit Yes to confirm once again. (This is just for Windows 10. For previous Windows operating systems, see Microsoft’s Support page .)

Step 5: Restart your computer and follow the prompts for Windows to guide you through setting up your new home network. Good luck!

Complete list of fixes if your internet is not working

If you’d rather skip the troubleshooting and just start trying things, have at it. Here are all our internet fixes in a simple list.

1. Restart your equipment

To restart your modem and router or gateway, unplug the power cable and wait 60 seconds before plugging it back in. It will take a few minutes to reboot. Restart your device as well.

2. Connect with an Ethernet cable

Connecting via Ethernet will rule out issues with your Wi-Fi network. If you can get online via Ethernet, there’s something interfering with your Wi-Fi. This fix gets you back online right away, and then you can use our Wi-Fi troubleshooting section to fix the issue.

3. Check for an internet outage

The internet may be down in your area. You can use a site like downdetector.com to see if anyone else is having connection issues in your area. Many ISPs also have outage alerts via their websites and apps. Of course, you could always just call your ISP to find out if there’s an outage.

4. Try using a different device

See if you can get a connection on a different device. The device you’re using might not be connected properly to your router.

5. Check your wires and cables

Your cables and wires could be loose or damaged. Coaxial cables should be screwed on snugly and phone and Ethernet cables should be fully inserted into the sockets. While you’re at it, look for signs of damage in the form of kinks, hard twisting, excessive tension, even chew marks from pets.

You could also try just swapping out cables if you have extras. Start with the Ethernet cable that connects your modem to your router. The copper lines inside the cable or in the connectors could have become severed without any obvious visible signs of damage. The springy clip on the connector could also have worn out, in which case the slightest nudge of the cable could cause your internet to go in and out.

6. Run your computer’s internet troubleshooter

Something may be amiss within your computer’s operating system. Both Mac and PC computers have troubleshooters built into their OS that can solve the problem for you. If you need help, see our instructions on using your computer’s troubleshooter .

7. Reposition your router/gateway

Your router’s placement can make or break your home’s Wi-Fi coverage. The key things to remember when choosing a location are elevation, distance, and obstructions. Elevate your router to provide a wider coverage area. Choose a central location to cover your home as completely as possible. Lastly, be mindful of obstructions like metal, tile, concrete, and water that can hamper Wi-Fi signals.

Alternatively, you could try moving your device closer to your router—somewhere with a clear line of sight to avoid obstructions. See our article on router placement for more information.

8. Update everything

Obviously, you’ll need internet access to update your OS, system firmware, and network software. To do so, you may need to use your mobile phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot, seek out a public Wi-Fi hotspot, or hop on a friend or family member’s internet connection.

It’s important to keep the OS and applications on your devices updated. Be especially mindful of OS updates, firmware updates (particularly network and wireless adapter updates), and antivirus application updates.

9. Ensure your equipment isn’t obsolete

You may be using an obsolete modem, router, or gateway—even if you rent your equipment from your ISP. The provider will usually notify you if you’re renting obsolete equipment, but it’s easy to overlook this alert.

Ensure your modem supports the DOCSIS 3.0 protocol or newer (for cable internet). Your router and device should support the Wi-Fi 5 wireless standard or newer.

The firmware on your equipment is usually updated automatically by the ISP.

10. Check your modem’s signal level

The signal from your ISP to your modem needs to be above a certain strength threshold to function properly. Low signal to the modem could easily result in a slow or completely dead internet connection.

It used to be that only a broadband technician with an expensive meter could tell your signal strength, but now, many routers and even some ISP apps will give you a signal reading. You can also call your ISP to run a diagnostic on your modem. If you have low signal strength to your modem, you probably need a technician to come out and repair the problem.

11. Contact your ISP

Your ISP can help you diagnose connection problems by running a diagnostic on your equipment. Customer service can find and solve all kinds of problems over the phone or through chat support. It’s certainly worth a try. If your issue can’t be solved over the phone, you can set up an appointment with a technician just in case you can’t fix the issue yourself.

12. Turn off your antivirus software

This isn’t something we recommend lightly, but it could do the trick. Turning off your antivirus software makes your system more vulnerable to malicious software and cyber attacks. Still, your antivirus software is a major link between your device and the internet. The possibility of an issue here is often worth exploring after exhausting the likely causes.

If you are able to get online after deactivating your antivirus software, we recommend you either turn it back on and get in touch with your antivirus software’s technical support team or replace the software immediately before browsing the web unprotected.

13. Reset your equipment to factory settings

Resetting your modem and router or gateway reverts all settings to the factory defaults. The most important thing to remember here is that your passwords and networks will all be erased. You’ll have to reset your network name and password and reconnect all your devices.

Additionally, the login credentials used to access and change your equipment’s settings will also switch back to the default username and password (usually printed on a sticker attached to the equipment). This is different from your Wi-Fi name and password. If you don’t know your equipment’s default login credentials, you should call your equipment’s manufacturer or ISP (for rented equipment) before attempting this step. You could end up completely locked out otherwise.

See our instructions above to learn how to reset your equipment.

14. Make sure you have a working IP address

There’s a chance that your computer is having trouble configuring a valid IP address. Your computer needs a unique IP to get on the internet, but you won’t be able to get online if multiple devices are assigned the same IP or if something has prevented your computer from assigning one. It’s not a particularly common issue, but it can happen—especially if you have multiple routers on the same home network.

See our instructions above to learn how to check for a valid IP address on Windows and Mac.

15. Reset your computer’s network settings

Resetting your network settings is similar to resetting your equipment. Your computer’s network settings will revert to their factory defaults, and you’ll need to re-enter your network information again.

See our instructions above to learn how to reset your computer’s network settings.

Still can’t get good Wi-Fi? It may be time to switch internet providers. Type in your zip code to see if you can find a more reliable ISP in your area.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. HighSpeedInternet.com utilizes paid Amazon links.

CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED ‘AS IS’ AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

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Author - Austin Aguirre

Austin worked as a broadband technician installing and troubleshooting countless home internet networks for some of the largest ISPs in the U.S. He became a freelance writer in 2020 specializing in software guides. After graduating with a BS in technical communication from Arizona State University, he joined the team at HighSpeedInternet.com where he focuses on home network improvement and troubleshooting.

Editor - Rebecca Lee Armstrong

Rebecca Lee Armstrong has more than six years of experience writing about tech and the internet, with a specialty in hands-on testing. She started writing tech product and service reviews while finishing her BFA in creative writing at the University of Evansville and has found her niche writing about home networking, routers, and internet access at HighSpeedInternet.com. Her work has also been featured on Top Ten Reviews, MacSources, Windows Central, Android Central, Best Company, TechnoFAQ, and iMore.

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How to Fix Network Connection Issues on Windows 10

Fix Network Connection Issues on Windows 10 (2021)

2. Once the Command Prompt window is open, begin typing in the IPconfig commands. The first command is ipconfig /release and it releases the current IP configuration.

Ping is not a troubleshoot resolver, but it’s a handy command to check the reliability of your network on Windows 10. From the response time, you can gauge if your PC needs network diagnosis or not.

Troubleshoot Network

If the methods above didn’t work, you could try out the built-in Windows troubleshooter to fix the network connection issues on Windows 10. Here is how you use it.

3. Finally, click on “Internet Connections,” and then click on “Run the troubleshooter.” It will detect the problem and will try to fix the issue automatically.

Reset Network Settings

Resolve Internet Connection Issues on Windows 10

Passionate about Windows, ChromeOS, Android, security and privacy issues. Have a penchant to solve everyday computing problems.

None of these actually work… especially with a vpn that may be in use.

Aparently there is a fix for the ICON that says “no connectivity” but you actually are connected…

Thank you for sharing this. Now I can fix my network connection issue easily.

Add new comment

How to fix internet access after updating Windows 11

Did you update Windows 11 and now can't access the internet? Here are the steps to fix this issue.

• Fix network issues after update
• Fix internet with Troubleshooter
• Reset network stack with CMD
• Reset adapters with Settings
• Fix network driver problems
• Disable security apps to fix internet
• Uninstall update to fix network issues

On Windows 1 1, Microsoft proactively releases updates to patch bugs, improve security and performance, and occasionally add new features. However, sometimes, system updates can also cause unwanted problems, and many times are connectivity issues.

For example, a lot of times, updates can make speeds and connections unreliable, especially with wireless adapters. Also, they can break connectivity entirely to the network and internet, cause network driver problems, and more.

If you cannot connect to the internet after installing a system update, Windows 11 offers several methods to resolve the issue and get back online quickly.

This guide will walk you through the steps to fix network issues after installing a Windows 11 update. 

How to fix network problems after installing update

If the device was recently updated and the network connection breaks, you can try these basic troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue. If the problem persists, continue with the more advanced instructions outlined below.

Reboot device

Sometimes, you can fix most problems by restarting the computer since this process clears the data in memory and restarts all the applications and system services.

To reboot a Windows 11 computer, use these steps:

• Open  Start .
• Click the  Power  option.
• Select the  Restart  option.

Once you complete the steps, open the web browser and load at least two or three websites to confirm the internet is working.

If only one of the sites isn't opening, it could be a problem with the website or the page and not the internet connection.

Network connection test

If the restart didn't solve the issue, you want to check whether the problem lies with the connection between the computer and the home router.

To check the network connectivity on Windows 11, use these steps:

• Search for  Command Prompt  and click the top result to open the console.
• Type the following command to find out the IP address of the router and press  Enter :  ipconfig
• Confirm the "Default Gateway" address that should be the address of the local router. 
• Quick tip:  Usually, home routers use the 192.169.1.1 or 192.168.2.1 address. 
• Type the following command to determine whether the router is reachable and press  Enter : ping ROUTER-IP 

This example tests the connection between the computer to the router with the 192.168.1.1 address:  ping 192.168.1.1  In the command, remember to change the 192.168.1.1 for the router's IP address. 

• Quick tip:  You can also use the ping 127.0.0.1 command to test whether the networking stack is installed correctly.
• Confirm successful replies without packet loss in the output.

After you complete the steps, if you see "4" successful replies in "Packets," the connection between the computer and router is working. 

If this is the case, the problem could be something happening with your internet provider. However, if you can still access the internet from another device in the same network, it could be another problem with the computer.

Turn on wireless connection

If you have a laptop and there isn't a connection to the internet, the wireless adapter may be disabled.

To enable the Wi-Fi adapter on Windows 11, use these steps:

• Open  Settings .
• Click on  Network & internet .
• Turn on the  Wi-Fi  toggle switch.

Alternatively, you can turn on the wireless adapter by opening the Quick Settings flyout (Windows key + A keyboard shortcut) and clicking the  Wi-Fi  button.

Also, ensure the physical wireless switch is turned on if you have a laptop. Otherwise, you won't be able to see or connect to any network.

Connect to wireless network

If there's a connection problem, you may be able to get around this problem by disconnecting and connecting the device to the access point.

To reconnect to the wireless network on Windows 11, use these steps:

• Turn off the  Wi-Fi  toggle switch.
• (Optional) Click the  Wi-Fi  setting if the computer doesn't connect automatically.
• Select the wireless network under the "Show available networks" setting.
• Click the  Connect  button.
• Continue with the on-screen directions to connect.

Once you complete the steps, you should be able to connect to the internet.

If you're on a network with a router that offers different frequency bands (2.4GHz and 5GHz), you can try to switch bands to make a reliable connection.

Re-enable network adapter

On Windows 11, an update can inadvertently change settings without your consent, including disabling the network adapter or turning on Airplane mode. 

If the network adapter is suddenly missing, it could be an issue with the drive, or the adapter might be disabled.

To enable a Wi-Fi or Ethernet adapter on Windows 11, use these steps:

• Click the  Advanced networks settings  page on the right side.
• Under the "Network adapters" section, click the  Disable  button for the adapter connected to the network.
• Click the  Enable  button.

After you complete the steps, the network adapter will enable and reconfigure automatically to connect to the internet.

Disable Airplane mode

When Airplane mode is turned on, Windows 11 won't be able to connect to the internet. If this is the case, make sure to disable the feature.

To turn off Airplane mode on Windows 11, use these steps:

• Turn off the  Airplane mode  toggle switch on the right side.

You can also turn off the feature from the Quick Settings flyout available through the Taskbar.

Reset wireless profile

The system creates a profile with connection details and credentials as you connect to a wireless network. If the profile gets corrupted during an update or due to another action, the computer won't connect to the network. In this case, you can delete and recreate the profile to fix the problem.

To recreate a wireless profile on Windows 11, use these steps:

• Click the  Wi-Fi  page on the right side.
• Click the  "Manage known networks"  setting.
• Click the  Forget  button for the profile that isn't working.
• Click the Back button to return to the Wi-Fi page.

Once you complete the steps, the computer should once again connect to the network and the internet.

You can refer to this guide for more details on  how to manage wireless settings on Windows 11 .

Restart home router

It can also be a coincidence that your home router stops working soon after updating to the most recent maintenance patch of Windows 11. If this is the case, restarting the network device may fix the connection and other networking issues.

To reboot the router (also referred to as modern or firewall), use these general steps:

• Locate the router.
• Unplug the power cord.
• Wait at least 60 seconds.
• Reconnect the power cord.

After you complete the steps, allow three to five minutes for the device to boot and check the connection.

How to fix internet access with Troubleshooter

On Windows 11, you can also use a specific troubleshooter to resolve networking issues on your computer.

To fix an internet connection with the network troubleshooter on Windows 11, use these steps:

• Click on  System .
• Click the  Troubleshoot  page on the right side.
• Click the  Other troubleshooters  setting.
• Under the "Most frequent" section, click the  Run  button for the "Internet Connections" troubleshooter.
• Select the  "Troubleshoot my connection to the internet"  option.
• Select the "Try these repairs as an administrator" option (if applicable).
• Continue with the on-screen directions (if applicable).

Once you complete the steps, the troubleshooter will scan and resolve any connectivity problem.

How to reset networking stack with Command Prompt

If the recently installed update messed up the Windows 11 networking stack, you can reset it to fix the problem on your laptop or desktop computer.

To reset the TCP/IP networking stack on Windows 11, use these steps:

• Search for  Command Prompt , right-click the top result, and select the  Run as administrator  option.
• Type the following command to reset the components that handle network requests and press  Enter :  netsh winsock reset
• Type the following command to reset the internet protocol (IP) stack and press  Enter :  netsh int ip reset
• Type the following command to clear the current networking configuration and press  Enter :  ipconfig /release
• Type the following command to reconfigure the network settings automatically and press  Enter :  ipconfig /renew
• Type the following command to clear the Domain Name System (DNS) information cached and press  Enter :  ipconfig /flushdns
• Restart your computer.

Once you complete the steps, open multiple websites with your preferred web browser to confirm whether the internet connection is working.

How to reset network adapters with Settings

At this point, if nothing seems to resolve the issue, you can reset all the network adapters' drivers and settings to the factory defaults to fix the connection problem.

To reset the Wi-Fi and Ethernet network adapters on Windows 11, use these steps:

• Click the  Advanced network settings  page on the right side.
• Under the "More settings" section, click the  Network reset  setting.
• Click the  Reset now  button.
• Click the  Reset now  button again.

After you complete the steps, you should be able to connect to the network and the internet.

Resetting the networking adapters means you must re-enter the security key when connecting to the wireless network. Also, you will have to reconfigure other networking software, such as VPN clients (if applicable).

How to fix network driver problems on Windows 11

On Windows 11, it's common that a network adapter driver may cause compatibility problems after installing a feature or quality update. If this is the case, you have three options. You can update the network adapter driver, if applicable. You could uninstall the drive if a recent update damaged it. And you can try rolling back to a previous version of the driver since the device may still work with an older driver.

Update adapter driver online

If the computer doesn't have a reliable connection, but it's still possible to connect it to the internet, you can use Windows Update to check for driver updates.

To update the network driver on Windows 11, use these steps:

• Click on  Windows Update .
• Click the  Advanced options  page on the right side.
• Under the "Advanced options" section, click the  Optional updates  setting.
• Click the  Driver updates  setting.
• Check the device driver update to install.
• Click the  Download & install  button.

Once you complete the steps, the update will download and install, hopefully fixing the problem in question.

Update adapter driver offline

In the case that the network connection doesn't work, you will have to download the latest network driver available from the manufacturer support website using another computer. If you have a branded device (such as from Dell, Lenovo, or HP), the best option is to download the driver from their websites. If the computer manufacturer driver doesn't work or you cannot find an updated version, you can try downloading the driver from the network adapter manufacturer's website.

To update a wireless or wired adapter manually, use these steps:

• Search for  Device Manager  and click the top result to open the app.
• Expand the  Network adapters  branch.
• Right-click the adapter with the problem and select the  Update driver  option.
• Click the  "Browse my computer for drivers"  option.
• Click the  Browser  button.
• Select the folder location with the driver package.
• Click the  OK  button.
• Click the  Next  button.

After you complete the steps, the update will install, fixing the compatibility problem on Windows 11.

Rollback previous driver

If the issue appeared after applying a driver update, rolling back to the previous version may fix the problem.

To roll back a driver update to a previous version o Windows 11, use these steps:

• Right-click the adapter with the problem and select the  Properties  option.
• Click the  Driver  tab.
• Click the  Roll Back Driver  button.
• Quick tip:  If the button is grayed out, the system does not have a backup of the driver.
• Click the  OK  button.
• Select a reason why you are rolling back (select any option).
• Click the  Yes  button.

Once you complete the steps, confirm whether the internet is working again on Windows 11.

Uninstall network adapter

If you started noticing issues after installing a system update, the update or installation process might have corrupted the driver or made changes to the settings without your consent. This action may fix your problem if you uninstall and reinstall the driver.

To remove the network adapter driver on Windows 11, use these steps:

• Right-click the Wi-Fi or Ethernet network adapter and select the  Uninstall device  option.
• Click the  Uninstall  button.

After you complete the steps, the driver will be removed from the computer, and after the restart, the system will detect and reinstall the hardware again.

How to disable security apps to fix internet access

If you use third-party security software for malware and firewall protection, sometimes, these solutions can prevent you from accessing the internet in some way or another. By disabling them and testing connectivity, you can confirm whether the security software is causing problems. 

This guide outlines the steps to disable the Microsoft Defender Antivirus and Firewall. If you have another application, check the software support website for more details. 

Disable antivirus

To disable the Microsoft Defender Antivirus on Windows 11, use these steps:

• Search for  Windows Security  and click the top result to open the app.
• Click on  Virus & threat protection .
• Under the "Virus & threat protection settings" section, click the  Manage settings  option.
• Turn off the  Real-time protection  toggle switch.

Once you complete the steps, open the web browser and try to load several pages to see whether the internet is working.

It's never recommended to use a computer without an active antivirus. If you want to activate the anti-malware feature, restart the computer or turn on the  Real-time protection  option again.

Disable firewall

To disable the Microsoft Defender Firewall, use these steps:

• Click on  Firewall & network protection .
• Click the (active) network.
• Turn off the  Microsoft Defender Firewall  toggle switch.

After you complete the steps, try to connect to the internet or the network resource you want to access to confirm the connection is working.

You can enable the firewall again using the same instructions outlined above, but on  step 5 , make sure to turn on the  Microsoft Defender Firewall  toggle switch.

How to uninstall update to fix network issues

Microsoft proactively pushes system updates to fix bugs, patch vulnerabilities, and improve the experience with changes and new features. However, nowadays, updates are known to cause a lot of problems. If you know or suspect that a recent update is causing network connection problems, you can uninstall the update to mitigate the issue until there's an update for the system or drive that fixes the problem.

To uninstall a quality update on Windows 10, use these steps:

• Click the  Update history  button.
• Click the  Uninstall updates  option.
• Select the most recent update causing the network problem on Windows 11.
• Click the  Uninstall  button.
• Click the  Yes  button.
• Click the  Restart now  button.

Once you complete the steps, Windows 11 will remove the update, fixing the network adapter.

More resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Get the Windows Central Newsletter

All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.

Mauro Huculak is technical writer for WindowsCentral.com. His primary focus is to write comprehensive how-tos to help users get the most out of Windows 10 and its many related technologies. He has an IT background with professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA, and he's a recognized member of the Microsoft MVP community.

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How to Fix Common Computer Network Issues

Last Updated: December 30, 2022 References

This article was written by Luigi Oppido and by wikiHow staff writer, Travis Boylls . Luigi Oppido is the Owner and Operator of Pleasure Point Computers in Santa Cruz, California. Luigi has over 25 years of experience in general computer repair, data recovery, virus removal, and upgrades. He is also the host of the Computer Man Show! broadcasted on KSQD covering central California for over two years. This article has been viewed 339,085 times.

Computer networks equip computers and other electronic devices to exchange data. These networks allow you to connect to the internet, send emails, print wirelessly, and share files. If you are experiencing problems connecting to a computer network, you can try to fix, bypass, or troubleshoot common issues yourself before consulting a tech expert. This wikiHow teaches you how to diagnose basic network issues.

General Troubleshooting

• Windows: In the task bar in the lower-left corner.
• Mac . In the menu bar in the upper-right corner.
• Smartphones and Tablets: In the upper-right corner of the screen.

• The lights on your router may be different from one router make and model to the next. If you are confused as to what the lights mean, check your user's manual or manufacturer's web page for more information.

• If the range or your wireless internet is a problem, you can expand your network using a second wireless router or you can purchase a wireless mesh system to expand the range of your wireless network.

• One last simple fix can be reverting your router back to factory settings.

• Click the Windows Start menu.
• Click the Settings menu/Gear icon.
• Click Network and Internet .
• Click Change adapter options .
• Click your internet connection.
• Click Diagnose this connection .

• Click Network and Internet
• Right-click on the connection and then select Properties .
• Locate the Networking tab and click Configure .
• Click the Power Management tab.
• Uncheck the box next to “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.”

• Type "Device Manager" and click the Device Manager icon.
• Double-click Network Adapters .
• Right-click a network adapter.
• Click Update Driver .
• Click Search automatically for updated driver software .

• Click the Windows Start icon
• Type “cmd” into the search box.
• Right-click on the Command Prompt icon and click Run as Administrator .
• Type the following into the text box: "netsh interface TCP set global autotuninglevel=disabled".
• Hit the Enter key.
• Restart your computer. [2] X Research source

• Click the Windows Start icon.
• Click Network and Sharing Center .
• Click Change Advanced Sharing settings:
• Click Turn on Network Discovery .
• Click Turn on file and printer sharing .
• Click Save changes .

• Scroll down and click All Networks .
• Click Turn off password protected sharing .

• Click Windows Start"
• Right-click on the Command Prompt icon and select Run as Administrator .
• Type “ipconfig/flushdns” in the command prompt.
• Press Enter .

• Click on the WiFi icon in the top left corner of your screen.
• Click on Open Network Preferences .
• Click Advanced .
• Check the box next to “Remember networks this computer has joined."

• Click on the Apple icon in the upper-left corner.
• Click System Preferences .
• Click on the Network icon that resembles a globe.
• Scroll through your list of Networks until you find your 5 GHz network.
• Click on this network and drag it to the top of the list.

• Click Advanced . def
• Select your network from the list and then open the “DNS” tab.
• Click on the “+” icon under the “DNS Servers” column.
• OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 or 208.67.220.220.
• Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 or 8.8.4.4.
• Click Apply .

• Click the Apple icon .
• Click System Preferences
• Click Sharing
• Check Media Sharing .
• Enter your Apple ID password.
• Launch iTunes .
• Enter your Apple ID and password.
• Click Home Sharing .
• Turn on Home Sharing .

Community Q&A

• Always start troubleshooting with simple things. Almost 50% of connection issues are due to loose cable or router needing a hard boot or few setting changes Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Always make sure your router is on and connected properly. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Always call your ISP before going to any advanced stuff, if you forgot to pay the bill or your ISP has some connection issues, you won't be able to fix the issue in ways mentioned in this guide. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• The solutions presented in this article will not work for all issues, and when in doubt do not be afraid to ask. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-vista/troubleshoot-network-connection-problems
• ↑ http://www.speedguide.net/faq/how-to-disable-windows-vista-tcpip-auto-tuning-247
• ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201735
• ↑ http://www.macworld.com/article/2824564/slow-internet-edit-your-dns-settings.html
• ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT202190

About This Article

1. Make sure Wi-Fi is turned on on your devices. 2. Make sure you have a strong Wi-Fi connection. 3. Check multiple websites and apps to make sure none of them are connecting. 4. Make sure the Internet light on your modem or router is glowing solid white or green. 5. Make sure your internet cable is firmly attached to your modem or router. 6. Restart your modem and/or router by unplugging them and then plugging them back in. 7. Restart all your internet-connected devices. 8. Use a wired connection. 9. Try again later. 10. Contact your internet service provider. Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Top 8 Ways to Fix Windows 10 Network Connection Issues

The internet connection is crucial while working from home or enjoying web-based content. Sometimes, you might notice brief delay or get no internet error even when you are connected to the Wi-Fi. If you experience that often on your Windows 10 computer and laptop, you should certainly fix that to enjoy uninterrupted work and entertainment.

Firstly, you can check if you’re experiencing network connectivity issues with your LAN or router, or getting a message about network problems. Once you confirm that network connectivity isn’t the issue, you should troubleshoot the problem.

We’ve compiled useful troubleshooting tricks below to help you fix the Windows 10 network connection issues.

1. Check Power Connection

The first thing you should inspect is the reliability of the power adapters that come with the routers and modems. While most are reliable, you never know when these adapters stop to work consistently. The only way to test that is to use it with other compatible option or have the electrical lines tested.

And whenever there’s a power outage, your modem and router will stop working. That means the Wi-Fi signal is lost, and you may have to manually switch turn them on after the power restores.

2. Restart Your Modem and Router

Just like you restart your computer, you can follow the same with your modem and router. Rebooting those devices purges the old cache and DNS data. Go ahead and reboot your computer, modem, and router. If the modem or router is suffering an issue, it won’t work properly after restarting and that’s how you can identify whether something is wrong with that.

Did you install a new firmware update on your router or modem and didn’t restart it? Well, you should restart those devices to apply the new firmware update changes.

Step 1: Press and hold the power button on your router for 30 seconds.

Step 2: When it turns off completely, unplug all the cables and wait for at least 30 seconds.

Step 3: Reconnect the power cord and the ethernet cables. Boot the router and modem.

Once you have started, if you have another computer or phone, try getting online on that device. If it’s connected with the internet, you are totally fine, but if it isn’t, it’s likely an issue with your equipment or your ISP.

Are you still facing network connection issues? You can continue to narrow down the problem with the below troubleshooting options.

3. Check Physical Connections

Does your network problem continue even after rebooting your devices? Before you start diving into settings and tests, you can inspect whether the ethernet cables are properly connected to the modem and the router.

If you use an ethernet cable to connect to your router, make sure to unplugged it and check it closely for any damage. If your laptop has a wireless switch (function + wireless symbol key), you can use it couple of times to successfully enable the wireless connection.

Once you’ve verified a proper connection, check the modem and adapter. Are the green lights on your router or modem flashing? If no light blinks after the reboot, the device could struggle to function normally. And in that case, you might have to get a replacement or a new one.

4. Forget Wi-Fi network

When you forget a network (the one you’ve connected), and then add the same one again, the Windows 10 treats it as a completely new network.

If the network name conflicts are making it difficult to connect your Windows 10 computer to the internet, manually forcing your device to forget a few of them may fix the problem and get you online.

When you forget a network connection, it removes the Wi-Fi network profile from your PC. Follow the steps below.

Step 1: Select the Wi-Fi network icon on the right side of the taskbar.

Step 2: Click the Network and Internet settings.

Step 3: Select Wi-Fi, then select manage know networks.

Step 4: Select the network you want to forget and then select Forget.

Afterward, select the Wi-Fi icon on the taskbar and try to reconnect it.

5. Run Network Troubleshooter

If you can no longer connect to the network, you can use the troubleshooter to diagnose and get rid of some common connectivity issues.

To use the Network troubleshooter on Windows 10, use the steps below.

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your Windows 10 device.

Step 2: Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.

Step 3: Navigate to Additional troubleshooters > Incoming Connections and run the troubleshooter.

6. Turn off Firewall

As absurd as this sounds, the default Windows Firewall might prevent your computer from connecting to the Internet. You could temporarily disable Windows Firewall. Go through the steps below.

Step 1: Press the Windows button.

Step 2: Search for Windows Security and click on Firewall & network protection.

Step 3: Click on the Private network.

Step 4: Turn off the Microsoft Defender Firewall toggle switch.

Step 5: Open a browser and see if you can connect to the Internet. Try loading different web pages to confirm if the problem is resolved or not.

To re-enable the firewall, you can use the same affirmative steps, make sure the Firewall state is enabled.

7. Update Network Adapter Drivers

If you see the error message that you can’t connect to the network while attempting to establish a network connection, your network adapter drivers are probably outdated. So you can check the Network Driver your Windows OS uses.

Step 1: Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager from the menu that pops up.

Step 2: From the Device Manager app, go to Network Adapters.

Step 3: Select the Ethernet Network connection and right-click on it to choose Properties.

Step 4: On the General Tab, you can find the name of the Driver and the company that provided it. So download it from the respective Driver maker, like Intel, using another computer or you can do it using your phone with mobile data.

Step 5: Once you transfer that driver to your computer. Repeat Steps 1-3, and instead of clicking on Properties, you need to select Update driver.

After that, you can browse to the location where you’ve stored the Ethernet driver (unarchived form) and install it.

8. Disable Third-Party Antivirus Software

A third-party antivirus or malware could also provoke the Windows 10 network connection issues. You may temporarily disable that antivirus program to check if that is causing the issue.

If none of these solutions help you get back online, there may be a network outage in your area. You can reach out to your ISP’s customer service and file a support ticket.

Get Back Online

It’s annoying when you face no internet error and network problems frequently on your Windows 10 computer. Usually, the unknown software or the latest Windows update may cause the network connection to behave funny.

Next up: Do you frequently encounter blurry text on Windows 10? Read the post below to learn how to fix blurry text in Windows 10.

Last updated on 13 July, 2021

The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.

DID YOU KNOW

Parth Shah is an evergreen freelance writer covering how-tos, app guides, comparisons, listicles, and troubleshooting guides on Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, and smart TV platforms. He has over five years of experience and has covered 1,500+ articles on GuidingTech and Android Police. In his free time, you will see him binge-watching Netflix shows, reading books, and traveling.

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How to Fix Network Connection Issues in Windows 11

The ultimate guide to fixing any and all network connection issues on your Windows 11 computer with perfectly outlined steps.

The Internet has traveled the journey from being a utility to becoming a necessity. In today’s age, a computer without the Internet is almost as good as a paperweight. From communication and work to entertainment, everything requires an Internet connection.

In a constantly connected world, experiencing network connection issues is nothing short of a nightmare. Fortunately, the issue is well documented and there are several methods listed in this guide that you can try to fix the issues.

Before moving on to the fixes though, double-check that Wi-Fi is on.

1. Restart the System

While the fix may come across as elementary, restarts can fix process deadlocks, a bug that is interfering with the network service and even finish the driver installation process, which are all reasons why you could be facing network connection issues.

Head to the Start Menu and click on the ‘Power’ button icon and then click on the ‘Restart’ option. After the restart, check if the issue has been resolved.

2. Restart the Router

If you are connected to the network but the access seems to be limited or not at all, there is a high chance the problem is not your computer. Moreover, if you’re also facing issues on other devices, the router must be the one responsible for the mayhem. Hence, before you tinker with your system, turn off the router/modem and switch it back on after a couple of minutes.

Usually, the button to power off is located at the back of the router alongside all the LAN ports. In case you are not able to find it, you can also pull the plug on it. Once you have restarted the router, try connecting to the Internet again.

ISP outage could also be a reason behind limited network access. A router uses LEDs to display the current status of power, internet, and LAN ports. If you realize the LED for ‘Internet’ is either turned off or emitting a different color than regular, your ISP is likely facing some issues; better to call and check with them.

3. Toggle Airplane Mode on your Computer

In case restarting the computer and router did not resolve the issue for you, turning on airplane mode and turning it back off might help.

From the taskbar, click on the ‘Wi-Fi’ icon. Then, click on the ‘Airplane Mode’ icon from the overlay menu. Wait for a couple of minutes and then click it again to turn it off. Then, check if the problem persists.

4. Update Windows

If you are running on an older version of Windows, that can also be the reason you’re facing connectivity issues.

First, head to the Start Menu and click on the ‘Settings’ tile to proceed.

After that, ensure you have selected the ‘Windows Update’ tab from the left sidebar.

Then, from the right pane, click on the ‘Download & install/ Restart now’ to install pending updates.

Once the updates are installed, check if the issue has been resolved.

5. Update your Network Drivers

Updating your drivers is pretty elementary, however, if they haven’t been updated lately, there’s a pretty good chance you will be able to fix the solution just by doing this simple step.

First, head to the Start Menu and type Device Manager to perform a search. Then, from the search results, click on the ‘Device Manager’ tile.

Afterward, locate and double-click on the ‘Network adapters’ option. Once the category expands, find the Wi-Fi component and double-click on it. This will open a separate ‘Properties’ window on your screen.

Then, click on the ‘Driver’ tab present on the WiFi properties window. After that, locate and click on the ‘Update Driver’ button to continue. This will again open a separate window on your screen.

Now, click on the ‘Automatically update drivers’ if you desire to let Windows find a driver for the installed component. Otherwise, if you already have a package downloaded, click on the ‘Browse my computer for drivers’ option.

6. Run Internet Connection and Network Adapter Troubleshooter

If updating your network drivers did not fix the issue, running the troubleshooter for Internet connections and network adapters might help you rectify the improper configuration or any other issues along the same lines.

First, open the Start Menu and click on the ‘Settings’ tile to proceed.

Then, click on the ‘System’ tab from the left sidebar to continue.

Next, from the right section, click on the ‘Troubleshoot’ tile.

Afterward, click on the ‘Other troubleshooters’ tile.

On the next screen, click on the ‘Run’ button following the ‘Internet Connections’ tile.

From the troubleshooter window, click on the ‘Troubleshoot my connection to the Internet’ option. Windows will then check for the issues and report back on the same if it finds any.

If the ‘Internet Connection’ troubleshooter is not able to resolve the issue, you can also run the ‘Network Adapter troubleshooter’.

To run the Network Adapter troubleshooter, click on the ‘Run’ button present on the ‘Network Adapter’ tile.

After that, select the network medium you are facing a problem with. Once selected, click on the ‘Next’ button.

Windows will now check for errors in the network adapter and report back with anomalies along with the suggested steps to resolve the issue.

7. Change Power Management Settings

If you are using a laptop computer, your ‘Power Management’ settings can also disable your Wi-Fi network card to save battery. Though useful when you don’t need the Internet, it is not ideal if it disrupts the workflow.

To change the settings, head to the Start Menu and type Control to perform a search. Then, from the search results, click on the ‘Control Panel’ tile to proceed.

Then, click on the ‘Power Options’ from the Control Panel window.

On the next screen, click on the ‘Change plan settings’ option for the currently selected plan.

Then, click on the ‘Change advanced power settings’ option. This will open a separate window on your screen.

After that, from the ‘Power Options’ window, locate the ‘Wireless adapter settings’ and double-click on the option to expand the section.

Now, expand the ‘Power Saving Mode’ section and then click on the dropdown menu for the ‘On battery’ option. Next, select the ‘Maximum performance’ option.

Then, repeat the step for the ‘Plugged in’ option as well.

8. Disable IPv6

If IPv6 has been turned on in the adapter settings, that could also create network connection issues and it doesn’t hurt to check.

First, head to the Start Menu and click on the ‘Settings’ tile.

After that, click on the ‘Network & internet’ option from the left sidebar.

Next, from the right section of the window, click on the ‘Advanced network settings’ tile to continue.

After that, click on the ‘More network adapter options’ tile to proceed. This will open a separate window.

Now, right-click on the medium of connection and click on the ‘Properties’ option.

Then, on the ‘Properties’ window, uncheck the ‘Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)’ option and click on the ‘OK’ button.

9. Reset Network Components

Resetting all network components like Firewall settings, TCP/IP settings, renewing IP configuration lease, Windows socket, and flushing the DNS will eliminate all and any issues of improper configuration.

First, head to the Start Menu and type Terminal to perform a search. Then, from the search results, right-click on the ‘Terminal’ tile and click on the ‘Run as administrator’ option.

Now, an UAC (User Account Control) window will appear on your screen. If you are not logged in with an admin account, enter the credentials for one. Otherwise, click on the ‘Yes’ button.

Then, click on the chevron (downward arrow) and select the ‘Command Prompt’ option.

After that type or copy+paste the below-mentioned command and hit Enter to execute.

Similarly, type or copy+paste the below-mentioned commands one by one and hit Enter after entering each of them to execute them individually.

After executing all of the commands, restart your PC and check if the issue has been resolved.

10. Reinstall All Network Adapters

If no fix seems to be working for you, you can completely uninstall and reinstall all network adapters on your device. However, be aware that by doing this, all your saved network credentials will be reset.

Next, from the left sidebar present on the ‘Settings’ window, click on the ‘Network & internet’ tab.

Now, from the right section, click on the ‘Advanced network settings’ tile to proceed.

On the next screen, click on the ‘Network reset’ tile.

Afterward, click on the ‘Reset now’ button. This will restart your PC.

Note: This will completely uninstall and reinstall all the network adapters on your device. It will also uninstall any VPN software and virtual switches you might have installed on your system.

Once the PC has been restarted, try connecting to the Internet using your preferred medium and check if the problem is resolved.

11. Roll Back to a System Restore Point

In case nothing from the above methods seems to be working for you, it is time to bring out the big guns. If you created a system restore point before you started facing network problems on your PC, you can roll back to the restore point and you should be rid of the problem. However, do remember that any apps or data from after the restore point will be lost.

Head to the Start Menu and type Control to perform a search. Then, from the search results, click on the ‘Control Panel’ tile to proceed.

After that, locate and click on the ‘Recovery’ tile from the grid of icons.

Next, click on the ‘Open System Restore’ option from the list. This will open a separate window on your screen.

From the separately opened window, click on the ‘Next’ button.

All created system restore points will be listed on the screen. Click to select the desired one and then click on the ‘Next’ button to initiate the rolling back process.

Next, a list of drives that will be impacted by the rollback will be displayed along with the timestamp of the restore point created. You can also check the programs that will be affected; click on the ‘Scan for the affected programs’ button. A new window will appear on the screen.

On the new window, you can view the programs that will be deleted and the ones that will be restored. Click on the ‘Close’ button to navigate to the previous window.

Finally, click on the ‘Finish’ button to initiate the rollback process.

Experiencing network connection issues sucks, thankfully they can be easily resolved using the above-mentioned methods.

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How-To Geek

Windows 11 will fix an annoying problem with wi-fi.

Finding Wi-Fi networks could be easier soon.

One of the more annoying aspects of Windows 11 is looking for a Wi-Fi network and then fiddling with the operating system to show you a complete list of options. Thankfully, a future update will finally add a Wi-Fi refresh button to Windows 11.

This certainly isn't a new issue, as there have been complaints for years about the lack of a way to refresh the Wi-Fi selection. In the latest Windows 11 Canary build from earlier this week, Microsoft is officially testing a Wi-Fi refresh button near the bottom of the screen. That way, instead of constantly opening and closing the network list, hoping for a refreshed list, you can easily click a button and find the network you're looking for.

The new feature was first spotted on X (formerly Twitter) and then confirmed by a Windows Senior Program Manager. Apparently, this new addition isn't mentioned in the release notes because it's "not quite working" with everything, and the developer team is still making changes and improving the system. Either way, diagnosing Wi-Fi issues or hunting for networks is about to get a lot easier.

Remember that this helpful feature is only now appearing in Canary builds for Windows 11, meaning it could be a while before all the kinks get worked out, and it arrives for everyone. Either way, this is a good sign that Microsoft is actively listening to feedback and at least has a fix in the works.

Getting a Wi-Fi refresh button is certainly a step in the right direction, but that's just one of many potential issues with finding and interacting with networks. In the meantime, you can check out our guide on how to fix common Windows 11 Wi-Fi issues , including resetting the Wi-Fi.

The latest Windows 11 Canary build 25997 has a bunch of other bug fixes, improves Windows Share, and a way to quickly turn off Phone Link. You'll also find fixes for context menus randomly going transparent and a problem where booting into safe mode would stall. You can see the full changelog here .

Source: Neowin

How to Fix a Missing Wi-Fi Option in Windows 11

You can't connect to the internet when Windows 11's Wi-Fi option goes missing, but there are ways to get it back.

Key Takeaways

• Use the built-in troubleshooter: Run the Internet Connection or Network Adapter troubleshooter to scan and fix common network problems in Windows 11.
• Manually enable Wi-Fi adapter: If the Wi-Fi option is missing, go to Network and Sharing Center, click on Change adapter settings, right-click on the Wi-Fi adapter, and select Enabled.
• Update network adapter drivers: Install the latest drivers for your Wi-Fi device by going to Device Manager, expanding Network adapters, right-clicking on your Wi-Fi device, and selecting Update driver.

Your Windows 11 computer may not show a Wi-Fi connectivity option due to various reasons. Corrupt Wi-Fi drivers, hardware issues, and even problems with the Windows OS can be the potential causes for this problem. You may also notice frequent Wi-Fi connection drops.

Here are a few troubleshooting steps to help you fix the Wi-Fi not working problem in Windows 11.

1. Run the Internet Connection Troubleshooter

Windows 11 provides built-in troubleshooters to fix common issues with computer peripherals and network devices. You can run the Internet Connection troubleshooter to scan the system for common network problems and fix them automatically.

To run the Internet Connection troubleshooter:

• Press Win + I to open Settings .
• In the right pane, scroll down and click on Troubleshoot .
• Click the Run button for Internet Connections . Windows will launch the troubleshooter and show the issues that Windows can troubleshoot.
• Click on Troubleshoot my connection to the Internet. The troubleshooter will scan the system for issues and recommend potential fixes. Apply the fixes and check for any improvements.

If the issues persist, run the Network Adapter troubleshooter. Here’s how to do it.

• In the System tab, go to Troubleshoot > Other Troubleshooters.
• In the troubleshooter window, select All network adapters and click Next .

Select the appropriate option and follow the on-screen instructions. If available, apply the recommended fixes to restore your Wi-Fi connectivity.

2. Enable the Wi-Fi Adapter in Network Connections

Windows 11 will not display the Wi-Fi option if the Wi-Fi adapter is disabled. You can manually enable or disable the network devices in the Control Panel.

• Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
• Right-click on the Wi-Fi adapter and select Enabled .

Run the network diagnostic to troubleshoot the driver if it is already enabled. Right-click on the Wi-Fi adapter and select Diagnose .

Windows will scan the device for issues and recommend a potential fix. Click on Apply this fix to resolve the problem. If not, follow on-screen instructions to try additional recommendations.

3. Update the Network Adapter Drivers

Windows may not have the latest network drivers installed if you have recently performed an upgrade. Corrupt or glitchy network adapter drivers can also cause the Wi-Fi connectivity to malfunction. You can update the network adapter drivers to the latest version to resolve this problem.

• Press the Win key to open Windows search. Type device manager and open it from the search result.
• In the Device Manager, expand the Network adapters section.
• Right-click on your Wi-Fi device. For example, Intel (R) Wi-Fi AX200 and select Update driver.
• Select Search automatically for drivers . Windows will scan for new drivers and install them if available.
• Close the Device Manager and check if the Wi-Fi option is restored.

If you cannot locate your network adapter in Device Manager, follow this guide to fix a missing network adapter in Windows and try again.

4. Configure the Network Adapter Power Management Settings

By default, Windows can turn off your network adapter to save power when your computer enters sleep mode. However, this setting can cause Wi-Fi connectivity issues. You can quickly fix this by turning off the power management settings for your network adapter.

• Open Device Manager and expand Network Adapters .
• Uncheck the Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power option.
• Click OK to save the changes and restart your computer to see if the issue is resolved.

5. Enable the WLAN Auto Config Service

The WLAN Auto Config is a critical service for your wireless network connections. Check if the service is stopped and restart it to fix issues with your Wi-Fi.

• Press Win + R to open Run .
• In the Services snap-in, locate the WLAN AutoConfig service and check if it is running. If not, right-click and select Properties .
• Select Start .
• Choose Apply and OK to save the changes.

6. Enable All Services in the System Configuration Tool

The System Configuration utility allows you to configure startup services to troubleshoot a Windows computer. If you have recently used it to troubleshoot your computer, ensure all the services are enabled.

• Type msconfig.msc and click OK .
• Next, open the Services tab in the System Configuration dialog.
• Click Apply and OK to save the changes. Restart your computer to enable all the services.

5. Reinstall the Network Adapter Driver

You can also reinstall the network adapter device. This process will remove and reinstall the network device drivers to fix the common issues.

• Open Device Manager and expand the Network adapter section.
• Once uninstalled, click on Action in the Device Manager toolbar and select Scan for hardware changes . Windows will scan for missing but connected devices and reinstall the necessary drivers.

If the issue persists, follow these steps:

• Make sure to save any unsaved work or documents.
• Open Device Manager and uninstall the Wi-Fi adapter driver.
• Once uninstalled, press the Win key and type cmd .
• In the Command Prompt window, type the following command to perform a total shutdown of your computer: shutdown /s /f /t 0
• After the restart, Windows will automatically reinstall the Wi-Fi device driver and restore Wi-Fi connectivity.

6. Manually Reinstall the Wi-Fi Device Driver

You can manually install the Wi-Fi device driver to restore a missing Wi-Fi option. Here’s how to do it:

• Open Device Manager and expand the Network Adapters section.
• Select the first driver in the list and click Next . Device Manager will start installing the selected driver. Once completed, check if your Wi-Fi is working.

7. Perform a Network Reset

Windows 11 offers a built-in option to perform a network reset. This process will remove and reinstall the network adapters. In addition, other networking components will reset to their default settings to fix problems triggered due to incorrect network configuration.

• Open Settings and click on the Network & Internet tab in the left pane.
• Click the Reset now button for Network reset . Click Yes to confirm the action.
• Once the reset is complete, you should have the Wi-Fi connection restored. However, after the reset, you might need to reinstall and reconfigure other networking devices and software.

8. Reset the Network Device and Network Stack Using the Command Prompt

You can use the Command Prompt to reset your network devices. These commands will reset TCP/IP, restore advanced firewall settings, and Winsock reset.

Execute all the commands below in order, even if you encounter errors during execution.

• In the Windows Terminal window, type the following command in the given order: netsh int ip reset netsh advfirewall reset netsh winsock reset ipconfig /flushdns ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew
• Once all the commands are executed, restart your computer. After the restart, check if the Wi-Fi option is restored.

9. Check For Windows Updates

This is another fix for PCs with a fresh Windows installation. If you haven't already, run the Windows Update tool to check for pending Windows and third-party vendor updates. These updates can contain bug fixes and essential driver releases for the network devices.

• Click on Check for updates. Windows will take a few seconds to look for new updates. Download and install them and restart your PC to apply the changes if available.
• Scroll down and click on Optional updates.
• Click on Driver updates to view all the available updates. Select any update from your system manufacturer and click Download & install. Restart your PC to apply the changes.

If you don't have access to a wired Internet connection, use your smartphone's tethering capabilities .

Finally, if the problem persists, consider going back to the previous version of Windows 11. This is particularly useful if the Wi-Fi connectivity issue occurs after performing an upgrade.

To do this, open Settings > System > Recovery. Under Recovery options , click the Go back button and follow on-screen instructions to restore the earlier version of Windows.

This feature, however, is time-sensitive and only available for ten days after performing an upgrade. You can extend the 10-day rollback period to 60 days in Windows 11 .

Restore the Wi-Fi Connectivity in Windows 11

Wi-Fi in Windows 11 can stop working for several reasons. However, you can often fix it using the built-in network troubleshooter. Additionally, reinstall or update the network drivers to fix the problem.

Check your Wi-Fi card for hardware issues if the system still refuses to see your wireless network. You can replace the faulty Wi-Fi card or opt for a Wi-Fi dongle as a quick plug-and-play solution.

7+ Easy Ways to Fix Network Cable Unplugged on PC/Laptop

Network cable unplugged is one of the problems often experienced by computer or laptop users, who use an internet connection via a LAN cable or Wifi.

Causes of Network Cable Unplugged Error

There are different reasons why you may see the “Network Cable Unplugged” error message.

It usually means that your computer has trouble connecting to a local network. This can happen when the Ethernet network adapter is not functioning correctly.

A broken Ethernet cable, a damaged network adapter, or network device drivers that are not working correctly.

Some things that can cause network connection issues are:

• A broken Ethernet cable.
• A damaged network adapter.
• Network device drivers that are not working correctly.

Some users who upgrade to Windows 10 from an older version may encounter an issue with their internet connection that can disrupt online activities.

This problem results in an unstable or interrupted internet connection.

To fix this, here are a few possible solutions for an unplugged network cable.

How to Solve Network Cable Unplugged on Windows 10/11/7 PC/Laptop

1. check the lan cable and ethernet port.

Make sure the LAN cable you are using is not damaged, dirty, or folded. If there is damage, replace it with a new LAN cable.

Also, make sure the LAN cable is well connected to the Ethernet port on your computer or laptop, and also to the modem or router.

If the Ethernet port is dirty or dusty, clean it with a soft cloth or brush.

2. Restart your Computer or Laptop

Sometimes, the network cable unplugged issue can be caused by a configuration or driver error in your operating system.

To fix this, you can try restarting your computer or laptop, and see if the internet connection is back to normal.

3. Update your Network Card Driver

Network card drivers are software that manages the performance of the network card on your computer or laptop.

If your network card driver is outdated or incompatible, it can cause network cable unplugged issues.

To fix this, you can try to update your network card driver in the following ways:

• Open Device Manager on your computer or laptop. You can type “device manager” in the Windows search bar, or right-click on the Start Menu and select “Device Manager”.
• Find and double-click on Network adapters to see a list of network cards installed in your computer or laptop.
• Right-click on the network card you are using and select “Update driver”.
• Select “Search automatically for updated driver software” and wait for the driver search and installation process to complete.
• If there are new drivers available, follow the instructions that appear on the screen to install them.
• If no new driver is available, or you already have the latest driver, select Back and proceed to the next step.

If you have the latest version and still have problems, try removing and reinstalling the driver or using the old driver version.

4. Disable the Ethernet Network Adapter

If you are using a WIFI network with a PC that uses a built-in Ethernet adapter, you can Disable the Ethernet network adapter when not in use.

You can double-click on ‘A network cable is unplugged’, then select the disabled option.

5. Reset your Network Settings

If the steps above are still unsuccessful in resolving the network cable unplugged, you can try to reset your network settings in the following way:

• You can go to Go to Start menu > Settings > Network and Internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset.
• Select Reset Now to reset the network settings.

6. Check both ends of the Ethernet cable

Check both ends of the Ethernet cable to make sure they are firmly connected.

One end is connected to the computer and the other end is connected to the router.

If that doesn’t work, you can test the Ethernet cable which may be damaged.

Plug the same cable into another computer or swap it with a working cable.

7. Device Manager or Network and Sharing Center

Use Device Manager or Network and Sharing Center (in Control Panel) to change the Ethernet adapter’s Duplex setting to Half Duplex or Full Duplex instead of Auto.

This can solve technical issues by changing the speed and uptime of the device.

Some say it’s better to use Half Duplex, but this setting makes data speeds slower.

Open the device properties and look for the Speed & Duplex setting in the Advanced tab to change the setting.

So that’s the information about what causes the network cable unplugged notification to appear and how to solve it. Hopefully it can help as a reference.

What causes the network cable to be unplugged?

A faulty LAN cable, dirty Ethernet port, outdated network card driver, or network misconfiguration can cause the message “network cable unplugged”.

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Windows 11, version 23H2

November 14, 2023—kb5032190 (os builds 22621.2715 and 22631.2715).

• October 31, 2023—KB5031455 (OS Builds 22621.2506 and 22631.2506) Preview

Windows 11, version 22H2

• October 10, 2023—KB5031354 (OS Build 22621.2428)
• September 26, 2023—KB5030310 (OS Build 22621.2361) Preview
• September 12, 2023—KB5030219 (OS Build 22621.2283)
• August 22, 2023—KB5029351 (OS Build 22621.2215) Preview
• August 8, 2023—KB5029263 (OS Build 22621.2134)
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• Windows 11, version 21H2
• November 14, 2023—KB5032192 (OS Build 22000.2600)
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• October 12, 2021—KB5006674 (OS Build 22000.258)

Release Date:

OS Builds 22621.2715 and 22631.2715

NEW 11/16/23 IMPORTANT Because of minimal operations during the Western holidays and the upcoming new year, there won’t be a non-security preview release for the month of December 2023. There will be a monthly security release for December 2023. Normal monthly servicing for both security and non-security preview releases will resume in January 2024.

NEW 11/14/23 IMPORTANT After February 27, 2024, there will no longer be optional, non-security preview releases for Windows 11, version 22H2. Only cumulative monthly security updates will continue for the supported editions of Windows 11, version 22H2.

For information about Windows update terminology, see the article about the  types of Windows updates  and the  monthly quality update types . For an overview of Windows 11, version 23H2, see its update history page . 

Note  Follow  @WindowsUpdate  to find out when new content is published to the Windows release health dashboard.         

Tip:  The content is within collapsible sections. Click or tap the category name to expand the section.

Copilot in Windows preview

New! This update adds a preview of centralized AI assistance, called Copilot in Windows . This makes Windows 11 the first PC platform to add centralized AI assistance to help you get things done. This first preview focuses on the integrated UI.

To start, select the Copilot in Windows button on the taskbar (or press WIN + C). Copilot in Windows uses the same Microsoft account (MSA) or Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) account you used to sign in to Windows. Note that Azure AD will change to Microsoft Entra ID .

Copilot in Windows appears as a side bar on the right of your screen. It will not overlap with desktop content or block open app windows.

You can ask questions or take actions, such as:

Copilot in Windows with Bing Chat generates responses that are contextual and improves your experience in Windows.

To learn what Bing does with your data, go to Microsoft Privacy Statement . To learn how Microsoft develops AI technology responsibly, see Microsoft’s commitment to responsible AI .

Note The update to Windows 11, version 22H2 coming on September 26, 2023, will be broadly available to Windows customers around the world. Copilot in Windows will start to release in preview to a select set of global markets. It is our intention to continue to broaden availability over time.

New! This update gives a richer preview when you hover over files under Recommended on the Start menu. For this first release, thumbnails will not be available for all files. Also, when you right-click cloud file recommendations, you have the option to quickly share these files.

Taskbar, system tray, and notifications

New! This update adds an enhanced volume mixer to Quick Settings. Using it, you can customize audio for each app separately. You can also swap audio devices whenever you want. The new keyboard shortcut (WIN + CTRL + V) gets you to the volume mixer fast.

It is also easier to turn on the Windows Spatial Audio experience. A new quick access list shows you all the spatial audio technology installed on your device. To find more spatial sound technology, such as Dolby and DTS, go to the Microsoft Store.

New! This update adds “never combined” mode. In this mode, you can view application windows and their labels on the taskbar separately. To find this feature, go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors .Set Combine taskbar buttons and hide labels to Never. Also, there is a separate setting for turning this on for other taskbars when you use multiple monitors.

New! Starting in this update, desktop labels appear when you move between desktops in Task View (WIN + CTRL + left or right arrows). New sliding animations will also show when you change your desktops using trackpad gestures, touch gestures, hot keys, and by clicking the Task View flyout box.

New! You can now hide the time and date in the system tray. To turn this on, right-click the system tray clock and choose Adjust date and time .

New! Notifications now show as a bell icon in the system tray. When new notifications appear, the icon will have a fill color based on your system’s accent color. When there are no notifications and the clock is visible, the icon will have no fill color. The number of notifications will not show. 

New! This update adds a “view notification” button for urgent or important notifications that you receive when you turn on do not disturb. Select the button to view the content of the notification. This button appears when you use an app in full screen.

New! To minimize distractions from notification toasts, Windows now detects if you are interacting with toasts from an app. If not, a suggestion to turn off the toast banner for that app appears. This will only stop the banner from appearing. You can still find the toasts in the notification center.

New! You can now right-click an app on the taskbar and end the task. This update adds a new setting in Settings > System > For developers to turn on this capability.

New! This update adds the option to start diagnosing network problems from the system tray. To view this option, right-click the network icon in the system tray.

File Explorer

New! This update adds a modernized File Explorer Home that is powered by WinUI . Recommended files display as a carousel. That carousel only appears if you are signed in to Windows using an Azure AD account. To turn this off and show pinned folders instead, select the ellipses. To open theFolder Options dialog, select Options . In the Privacy section, select the new checkbox next to S how recommended section .

New! File Explorer’s newly designed address bar recognizes local and cloud folders. It also shows your file’s status. For Microsoft OneDrive users, the address bar now contains your OneDrive sync status and a quota flyout box.

New! A new details pane in File Explorer (ALT + Shift + P) helps you access related content, stay up to date with file activity, and collaborate without opening a file. When you select a file in File Explorer and turn on the pane, the pane displays contextual information about the file. This includes a file thumbnail, its sharing status and button, emails, and more. To turn it on, select the View menu and choose Details pane . Then use the button located on the right side of the command bar to turn on the pane.

New! This update introduces Gallery in File Explorer. Gallery makes it easy to access your photo collection. The content in Gallery is the same as what you see in the All Photos view in the Photos app. Your most recently taken photos appear at the top of Gallery. This includes photos from your phone if you have OneDrive Camera Roll Backup set up.

You can choose the folders that show in Gallery using the Collection dropdown menu. You can also add subfolders of existing sources to filter to a subset of your content. This includes desktop backgrounds, SD cards, and camera imports.

Gallery also works from the file picking dialog . This makes it easy to insert attachments, build PowerPoint slides, or craft social media posts.

A new button, called Add Phone Photos, is in the command bar. Use it to make your PC ready to show photos from your phone in Gallery. When you select this button, a URL appears that has a QR code that you can scan with your phone to get started.

New! This update adds native support for reading additional archive file formats using the libarchive open-source project , such as:

Note This features does not support password encrypted files.

New! You can now tear off and merge tabs with an existing File Explorer window.

New! This update improves the performance of the calculating phase when you send a large number of files at the same time to the recycle bin in File Explorer.

This update addresses an issue that stops File Explorer from opening.

Windows Share

New! You can email your files using Outlook directly within the Windows share window. Select the Outlook icon in the “Share using” section of the Windows share window.

New! The Windows share window now has a search box. So, you can now search for contacts across Outlook to share a file. The Windows share window also displays 8-10 suggested contacts to quickly share to–including emailing yourself a file.

New! Instead of a dropdown menu in the Windows share window, there is a button to turn on nearby sharing.

New! For nearby sharing, your own PCs appear at the top of discovered devices under “Nearby Share.”

New! Sharing files from one PC to another is faster when you use Wi-Fi Direct.

Note These experiences will work for apps that use the built-in Windows share window. These include sharing local files from the desktop, File Explorer, Photos, Snipping Tool, and Microsoft Xbox.

Backup and restore

New! This update introduces the Windows Backup app. Use it to quickly get your current PC backed up and ready to move to a new PC.

New! The Microsoft Store apps from your previous PC are pinned where you left them on the taskbar and the Start menu. Desktop apps that you did not install from the Microsoft Store are also where you left them.

New! Settings from your previous device will restore to your new PC. This helps you get back into your workflow as quickly as possible.

Note This update does not support all settings and app types for Windows Backup. Backing up a Work or School account is not supported.

New! This update adds support for Unicode Emoji 15 . You can now see, search for, and insert new emoji from the emoji panel. To open the emoji panel, press the Windows logo key + . (period).

New! With the update of our color font format to COLRv1 , Windows now displays emoji with a 3D like appearance. You will only see this feature if an app supports it.

Windows Spotlight

New! This update improves the Windows Spotlight experience. You can preview images in full screen using the Learn more button. This update also provides a minimized Windows Spotlight experience. There are many ways to learn more about each image. To open the Windows Spotlight flyout box, right-click the Spotlight icon on the desktop. To learn more about each image, double-click its icon to open a Bing landing page.

New! This update adds new natural voices for Narrator. These voices use modern , on-device text-to-speech. Once you download it, it works without an internet connection. The new natural voices are:

New! When Narrator opens, it will get updates to its Outlook support . After the download is complete, you will get a notification. Currently, Narrator’s Outlook support is only for U.S. English.

New! In Microsoft Excel, Narrator gives a more succinct and efficient reading experience. It prioritizes announcements based on what you need to skim a workbook. You can use keyboard shortcuts to customize them. To learn more, see the Enhanced Narrator support in Excel documentation . This new experience is available from the Microsoft Store. So, it might take a few minutes to be available on your device.

New! This update improves how well Narrator reads Traditional Chinese characters and words when you use the Input Method Editor’s (IME) candidate window. This is only available for the Taiwan language pack. It is not available for the Hong Kong language pack.

Voice Access

New! This update adds commands to correct words that voice access fails to recognize. You can say “correct [text]” to correct specific text. Use “correct that” to correct text you last dictated. The correction window appears with a list of words labelled with numbers. You can say “click [number]” to select any word from the list. If you choose a word from the window, that word replaces the text you want to correct. You can also say “spell that” or “spell out” to dictate the correct spelling of text. You get suggestions as you spell out the text. All the words and phrases that you spell are added to the Windows dictionary. They will appear as suggestions when you try to spell the text again.

New! Voice access now works right when you start your PC. You can turn on voice access from the accessibility flyout box on the Lock screen. To turn it on automatically, go to Settings > Accessibility > Speech . Choose the setting to “Start voice access before you sign in to your PC.” Then you can use voice access to sign in to your PC and access other areas on the Lock screen.

Follow the instructions on the voice access bar to get your focus on the password field. Use your voice to dictate your password or PIN. You can say “show keyboard” to bring up the touch keyboard with number labels on it. Say the number on the key to enter the letter associated with it. This will mask the password you enter from being heard by anyone in your vicinity. You can also use other commands, such as “show numbers” or “click [element name]” to access other elements on the touch keyboard.

New! Voice access now works for apps that run with Microsoft Defender Application Guard turned on.

New! Passkeys are a simple and more secure replacement for passwords when you sign in to a website or application that supports them. You can now go to any app or website that supports passkeys to create a passkey that uses Windows Hello. Once you create a passkey, you can use Windows Hello (face, fingerprint, or PIN) to sign in. In addition, you can use your phone or tablet to sign in.

New ! View and delete passkeys saved for your favorite apps and websites in Windows Settings. Go to Settings > Accounts > Passkeys . The passkey list appears. You can search for and delete any passkey from the device.

Note On Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome, when you see the browser’s passkey UI, choose “Windows Hello or external security key.”

New! This update adds Enhanced Phishing Protection in Microsoft Defender SmartScreen . It helps to protect school and work passwords from phishing and unsafe use on websites and in apps. This works if you have turned on the warning options for Windows Security. Go to App & browser control > Reputation-based protection > Phishing protection . When it is on, a dialog appears that warns you about using a password in a way that is not safe. For example, reusing a password is not safe.

New! Enterprise customers can now set the EnablePasswordlessExperience policy . Once you set the policy, it hides passwords for some Windows authentication scenarios. This is true for signing in to a device and for in-session authentication scenarios. These include web browser password managers, “Run as” admin, and User Account Control (UAC). This policy applies to machines that are joined to AAD. Users can recover their passwords using a Windows Hello for Business PIN reset or by signing in on the web. They can do this without help from the IT helpdesk.

New! You can turn on Auto Color Management (ACM) on your Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) display. ACM makes all the colors on all your Windows apps appear accurately and consistently on every supported display. This is true even if the apps are not color managed. To turn ACM on, go to Settings > Display > Advanced display . Choose theSDR display and turn on Automatically manage color for apps . See the requirements to use ACM in the table below.

There are no hard requirements for the display or connection. ACM can provide benefits even on 8-bit sRGB panels. However, we strongly recommend ACM devices to have panels with a wider-than-sRGB gamut. Ten-bits (10-bits) per color channel or greater is also advised as an option.

New! This update adds a new Settings home page. It has interactive cards that represent devices and account related settings. As you use your device, the page and cards adjust to give you the most relevant and useful information. In this release, there are up to seven cards (see below). More are coming soon.

Recommended settings : It gives you options that help save you time.

Cloud storage : This shows your cloud storage use and lets you know when you are nearing capacity.

Account recovery : It helps you add more recovery information. This stops you from being locked out of your account.

Personalization : With just one click, you can change your background theme or color mode.

Microsoft 365 : View a quick glimpse of your subscription status and benefits. Here, you can also perform some key actions instead of going to the web.

Xbox : Here, you can view your subscription status and manage the subscription.

Bluetooth Devices : You can quickly access and connect to your favorite Bluetooth devices.

Note This experience is only available on Windows 11 Home and Pro editions. It is not on devices that companies manage.

New!  Dev Drive is a new form of storage volume. It gives developers what they need to host source code, working folders, and package caches. Dev Drive is built on Resilient File System (ReFS) technology. Dev Drive also has Performance mode. It is a new Microsoft Defender Antivirus capability. Performance mode minimizes the impact on developer workloads. You can create a Dev Drive using free space on an existing drive or create a VHD/VHDX. Go to the Settings app within System > System > For developers . You can also set it up using the command-line. A Dev Drive must be at least 50 GB or higher in size. We recommend that you have 8 GB or higher of RAM on your device. To learn more, see Set up a Dev Drive on Windows 11 (Public Preview) .

New! This update adds Dynamic Lighting. It gives you control of lighting devices that implement the open HID LampArray standard. These devices can create millions of color combinations using red, green, and blue (RGB). This update includes APIs for Windows apps to control background and foreground devices. To change how your devices behave, go to Settings > Personalization > Dynamic Lighting . Some of the things you can do using Dynamic Lighting include:

You can instantly sync your Windows accent color with the devices around it. Use the “Match my Windows accent color” toggle under “Effects.”

You can choose a custom color to light up your devices.

For a list of the compatible in-market devices, see Dynamic lighting devices . You must use the latest firmware with these devices.

New! The update adds Adaptive Dimming. This works for PCs that have presence sensors that support attention detection. Now your device can dim your screen when you look away and undim it when you look back. To turn it on, go to Settings > Privacy & security > Presence sensing . You can also turn on Presence Sensing when you are setting up a new device. It is an option for your privacy settings.

New! The “For Developers” settings page is now in Settings > System . It is no longer in Settings > Privacy & security .

New! This update adds two new energy recommendations in Settings > System > Power & battery > Energy recommendations . One turns on dark mode. The second adjusts the refresh rate.

New! You can now stop Windows from communicating with your mobile devices. Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Phone Link . There you will find an option to turn off Phone Link.

New! You can now join Bluetooth Personal Area networks. This option is for paired devices, like phones, that share an internet connection over Bluetooth. Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Devices .

New! This update adds a new cellular toggle. It makes it easier to control whether to use cellular when Wi-Fi is available, but it is poor. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Cellular .

New! You have more options on the Data Usage page. They support daily and weekly data limits. Also, the page shows how far the data limit has been exceeded.

New! You can quickly get to Settings to uninstall an app from a context menu. Right-click a Win32 app on the Start menu or search for the app and choose “Uninstall.”

New! This update improves the design of the Settings page for wheel devices, like the Surface Dial.

New! This update changes the design of a few lists to be more consistent with other Settings pages. The lists are for Settings > Apps > Startup Apps and Settings > Apps > Advanced App Settings > App Execution Alias . The new design also makes it easier to view more information about the apps you have.

New! You can now get to advanced properties for network adapters and internet properties from Settings. Go to Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings .

New! You can now view Wi-Fi passwords for your known networks in Settings. Go to Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi and “Manage known networks.”

New! This update improves your experience when you change time zones. This change considers scenarios in which the location data might not be accurate. A notification appears that prompts you to confirm the time zone before Windows adjusts it for you.

New! This update also improves your experience when you change the time zone in Settings > Time & language > Date & time . If location settings are turned off, a warning appears. It tells you to turn on location settings to ensure accurate time zone adjustments. This warning helps you to understand why a time zone might not be correct so you can address the issue.

New! This update improves the design of the Task Manager dialogs and its Settings page. It now matches the look and feel of other Settings pages. The new design also separates categories into different sections for a cleaner UI.

New! Windows now detects camera streaming issues. If your camera does not start or its shutter is closed, a notification appears. It recommends that you open the automated Get Help troubleshooter to address the issue.

New! The network flyout box on the Lock screen now aligns with Windows 11 design principles.

New! This update changes the design of the firewall notification dialogs for Windows Security. They now match the look of Windows 11.

This update addresses an error on the Settings home page that occurs when you sign in. Because of this, you cannot view your account information on that home page.

Windows 365 Switch

New! Using Windows 365 Switch , you can sign in to and connect your Windows 365 Cloud PC to your local desktop. Then you can move between them using familiar keyboard commands, mouse clicks, or a swipe gesture. For easy access from your desktop, you can add Windows 365 Switch to Task view.

 Improvements

Important:  Use EKB  KB5027397  to update to Windows 11, version 23H2.

This security update includes quality improvements. Key changes include: 

This build includes all the improvements in Windows 11, version 22H2.

No additional issues are documented for this release.

This security update includes improvements that were a part of update KB5031455  (released October 26, 2023). When you install this KB:  

This update makes miscellaneous security improvements to internal OS functionality. No additional issues were documented for this release.

If you installed earlier updates, only the new updates contained in this package will be downloaded and installed on your device.

For more information about security vulnerabilities, please refer to the Security Update Guide website and the November 2023 Security Updates .

Windows 11 servicing stack update - 22621.2567 and 22631.2567

This update makes quality improvements to the servicing stack, which is the component that installs Windows updates. Servicing stack updates (SSU) ensure that you have a robust and reliable servicing stack so that your devices can receive and install Microsoft updates.

Known issues in this update

How to get this update.

Before installing this update

Microsoft combines the latest servicing stack update (SSU) for your operating system with the latest cumulative update (LCU). For general information about SSUs, see Servicing stack updates  and  Servicing Stack Updates (SSU): Frequently Asked Questions . 

Install this update

If you want to remove the LCU

To remove the LCU after installing the combined SSU and LCU package, use the DISM/Remove-Package command line option with the LCU package name as the argument. You can find the package name by using this command: DISM /online /get-packages .

Running Windows Update Standalone Installer ( wusa.exe ) with the /uninstall switch on the combined package will not work because the combined package contains the SSU. You cannot remove the SSU from the system after installation.

File information

For a list of the files that are provided in this update, download the  file information for cumulative update 5032190 . 

For a list of the files that are provided in the servicing stack update, download the  file information for the SSU - versions 22621.2567 and 22631.2567 .  

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