Troubleshooting Intermittent Internet Disconnects on Your Windows 11 PC

If you’ve been experiencing random internet disconnections on your Windows 11 PC, you’re not alone. Many users encounter similar frustrations, even when their other devices remain connected without issue. This particular problem can be both baffling and irritating, especially if you rely on a stable internet connection for work or leisure activities.

Understanding the Issue

In my case, I’m using a wired connection with an Ethernet cable, which typically offers a more stable internet experience than Wi-Fi. Yet, every few hours, the connection inexplicably drops, leaving me to grapple with the issue while my other devices, like smartphones and tablets, remain unaffected. This inconsistency in connectivity led me to explore various troubleshooting steps to regain a reliable connection.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check Physical Connections

Start by ensuring that the Ethernet cable is securely connected to both your PC and the router. Sometimes, a loose connection can lead to intermittent disruptions.

2. Restart Your Computer

While it may seem like a basic solution, rebooting your PC often resolves temporary Software glitches that could be affecting your internet connection. For me, this has been the only effective fix when the disconnection occurs.

3. Try Wi-Fi

If you’re primarily using Ethernet, consider switching to a Wi-Fi connection temporarily to determine if the issue persists across different connection types. If the problem arises on both connections, it may indicate an issue with your network hardware or settings.

4. Update Network Drivers

Outdated drivers can often lead to connectivity problems. Head to the Device Manager, find your network adapter, and check for updates to keep your drivers current.

5. Network Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in network troubleshooter that can help identify issues. You can access this feature through Settings > Network & Internet > Network troubleshooter.

6. Investigate Power Management Settings

Sometimes, power management settings can cause network adapters to turn off, leading to disconnections. Navigate to Device Manager, locate your network adapter, right-click, and select Properties. Under the Power Management tab, make sure to uncheck “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.”

Conclusion

While experiencing regular internet disconnections on your Windows 11 PC can be extremely frustrating, taking these steps can often help you identify and troubleshoot the underlying issue. If the problem continues despite these efforts, it may be worth checking with