Wi-Fi Not Working on Windows? Step-by-Step Fixes
When Wi-Fi fails, the cause is often simple. Work through these steps from easiest to most involved.
1. Check if it is only your PC
See whether your phone connects to the same network. If no device works, the problem is the router or internet service, not your PC.
2. Restart the basics
- Restart your PC.
- Unplug the router and modem for 30 seconds, then plug them in again.
3. Toggle Airplane mode and Wi-Fi
Make sure Airplane mode is off and Wi-Fi is on in the quick settings panel. Laptops may also have a keyboard shortcut or switch for wireless.
4. Run the Network troubleshooter
Go to Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters and run Internet Connections and Network Adapter.
5. Forget and rejoin the network
In Settings → Network & internet → Wi-Fi → Manage known networks, choose your network, select Forget, then reconnect and re-enter the password.
6. Update the network driver
Open Device Manager, expand Network adapters, right-click your Wi-Fi adapter and choose Update driver. See how to update drivers safely.
7. Reset network settings
In Settings → Network & internet → Advanced network settings → Network reset, reset your settings. You will need to rejoin Wi-Fi networks afterward.
Still stuck?
Try an Ethernet cable to confirm the internet service itself works, and contact your internet provider if it does not.