No internet connection after moving windows to SSD

Troubleshooting Wi-Fi Connection Issues After Migrating Windows to an SSD

If you’ve recently transferred your Windows installation from an HDD to an SSD and are now experiencing internet connectivity problems, you’re not alone. Many users encounter unexpected network issues following hardware upgrades or system migrations. This guide aims to help you diagnose and resolve such problems efficiently.

Understanding the Issue

In this scenario, the user reports that after cloning or transferring Windows to a new SSD, the computer can connect to a mobile hotspot but cannot access their home Wi-Fi router. Interestingly, booting the same Windows installation from the HDD allows internet access without issues. This discrepancy suggests that the problem may be related to network configuration, driver compatibility, or system settings altered during migration.

Potential Causes

1. Network Driver Compatibility:
   New hardware or changes in disk configuration can sometimes cause Windows to revert to generic or outdated network drivers, leading to connectivity issues.

2. IP Address and Network Configuration Changes:
   The user’s recollection of previous internet restrictions imposed by parental controls, such as scheduled access blocks, might have altered IP settings or reserved addresses that are now conflicting with the current network setup.

3. Firewall or Security Software Conflicts:
   Sometimes, security software or Windows Firewall settings can inadvertently block Wi-Fi connections after system changes.

4. System Settings or Profile Issues:
   Differences in user profiles or network profiles between the HDD and SSD setups could cause connectivity disparities.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check Network Adapter Drivers:
2. Open ‘Device Manager’ (press Windows key + X, then select Device Manager).
3. Expand ‘Network adapters’ and locate your Wi-Fi adapter.
4. Right-click and select ‘Update driver.’ Choose ‘Search automatically for updated driver software.’

5. Alternatively, visit the manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest drivers manually.

6. Reset Network Settings:

7. Open Command Prompt as an administrator (search ‘cmd’, right-click, choose ‘Run as administrator’).
8. Execute the following commands one by one:
   netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns

9. Restart your computer and attempt to reconnect.

10. Check for IP and DNS Configuration:

11. Navigate to ‘Network & Internet’ settings > ‘Change adapter options.’
12. Right-click your