If your device is connected to Wi-Fi but you can’t access the internet, it can be incredibly frustrating. This issue is often caused by problems with your router, modem, or network settings. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you resolve it.
Step 1: Restart Your Router and Modem
A simple restart can resolve temporary glitches.
- Turn off your router and modem by unplugging them from the power source.
- Wait for 30 seconds, then plug them back in and turn them on.
- Wait for the devices to fully restart and check if the internet connection is restored.
Why this matters: Restarting your router and modem clears temporary issues and resets the connection.
Step 2: Check Other Devices
Determine if the issue is specific to one device or affecting all devices on the network.
- Try connecting another device (e.g., phone, tablet) to the same Wi-Fi network.
- If the other device also has no internet access, the problem is likely with your router or modem.
- If only one device is affected, the issue is likely with that device’s settings or hardware.
Why this matters: Isolating the problem helps you focus on the right troubleshooting steps.
Step 3: Run the Network Troubleshooter
Windows has a built-in tool to diagnose and fix network issues.
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status.
- Click Network troubleshooter and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Let Windows detect and fix the issue automatically.
Why this matters: The troubleshooter can resolve common network problems like incorrect IP settings or driver issues.
Step 4: Check Your IP Address Settings
Incorrect IP settings can prevent internet access.
- Open Network Connections by pressing Windows + R, typing ncpa.cpl, and pressing Enter.
- Right-click your Wi-Fi connection and select Properties.
- Double-click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
- Ensure both Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically are selected.
- Click OK to save changes.
Why this matters: Automatic IP and DNS settings ensure your device is properly configured to connect to the internet.
Step 5: Flush DNS and Reset TCP/IP
Corrupted DNS or TCP/IP settings can cause connectivity issues.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator by pressing Windows + X and selecting it from the menu.
- Run the following commands one by one: ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew ipconfig /flushdns netsh int ip reset netsh winsock reset
- Restart your computer after running these commands.
Why this matters: These commands clear corrupted network settings and restore default configurations.
Step 6: Update or Reinstall Network Drivers
Outdated or corrupted network drivers can cause connectivity issues.
- Open Device Manager by pressing Windows + X and selecting it from the menu.
- Expand the Network adapters section.
- Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers and let Windows find and install the latest version.
- If updating doesn’t work, right-click the adapter, select Uninstall device, and restart your computer to reinstall the driver automatically.
Step 7: Check Router Settings
Incorrect router settings can block internet access.
- Access your router’s admin panel by entering its IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) in a web browser.
- Log in with your username and password (check the router’s manual if you don’t know these).
- Ensure the router is properly configured and connected to the internet.
- Check for firmware updates and install them if available.
Why this matters: Router settings and firmware updates can resolve connectivity issues and improve performance.
Step 8: Contact Your Internet Service Provider (ISP)
If none of the above steps work, the issue may be with your ISP.
- Check if there’s an outage in your area by visiting your ISP’s website or calling their customer support.
- If there’s no outage, ask them to check your connection and resolve any issues on their end.
Why this matters: ISPs can sometimes have technical issues or maintenance that affect your internet access.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the "Wi-Fi Connected but No Internet Access" issue and restore your internet connection. If the problem persists, consider consulting a professional or your ISP for further assistance.
