Troubleshooting Internet Connectivity Issues on Windows 10: When Wi-Fi Works But Your PC Won’t Connect
Are you experiencing a frustrating situation where your Windows 10 PC is connected to Wi-Fi, yet you cannot access the internet? This common issue can be perplexing—your phone connects without a problem, but your computer refuses to load web pages despite showing a stable connection. If you’re facing this scenario, don’t worry; there are several effective troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the problem.
Understanding the Issue
It’s important to recognize that such problems can stem from various causes, including network configuration errors, outdated or faulty network drivers, or issues with the Windows network stack. Symptoms often include a “No Internet, Secured” message or a status indicating a connection with no internet access, even though Wi-Fi signals appear strong.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
- Verify Basic Connectivity
- Confirm that your Wi-Fi is active and properly connected on your PC.
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Test internet access on other devices (like your phone) to ensure the issue is specific to your computer.
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Restart Networking Hardware
- Power off your modem and router.
- Wait for at least 30 seconds, then turn them back on.
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Reconnect your PC to Wi-Fi and check if the issue persists.
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Run Windows Network Troubleshooter
- Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
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Select “Internet Connections” and run the troubleshooter, following its recommendations.
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Reset Network Settings
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Execute the following commands one by one:
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /flushdns -
Restart your PC and test the internet connection.
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Update or Reinstall Network Drivers
- Open Device Manager (Windows key + X > Device Manager).
- Locate and expand the “Network adapters” section.
- Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter and select “Update driver.”
- Choose “Search automatically for updated driver software.”
- If updating doesn’t resolve the problem, consider uninstalling the driver:
- Right-click the adapter and select “Uninstall device.”
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Restart your PC, allowing Windows to reinstall the driver automatically.
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Check for Windows Updates
- Ensure your system is up-to-date by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
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Install any pending updates which may include important network improvements.
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Disable and
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