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How to Fix Wi-Fi Connection Issues on Windows 11

Applies toWindows 11
6 min fix Updated 7 Aug 2026

By , 10+ years in IT support and helpdesk How these guides are checked

Quick Answer

Open Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters and run Network and Internet. If that doesn't work, open Command Prompt and run netsh winsock reset followed by a restart.

Checked against Microsoft Learn - Windows release health and Microsoft Learn - end of support and retirement between 5 Aug 2026 and 12 Sep 2026. Nothing published in that period has been linked to this guide.

Summary ​

This article helps resolve common Wi-Fi problems, such as dropping connections, "No Internet" errors, or the Wi-Fi option disappearing entirely.

Symptoms ​

  • Your Wi-Fi won't connect to your usual network, or fails with an error when you select it
  • Wi-Fi is not working at all — the network list is empty, or the Wi-Fi toggle is greyed out or missing
  • The Wi-Fi icon by the clock shows a globe or a warning triangle instead of signal bars
  • Windows says you are connected but no internet pages actually load
  • The connection keeps dropping every few minutes and rejoins on its own

Before You Start ​

  • Verify other devices (e.g., phone) can connect to the Wi-Fi.
  • Know your Wi-Fi password.

Instructions ​

1. Run the Network Troubleshooter ​

This tool resets the wireless adapter and clears DNS settings. If the status under your network name reads No Internet, secured, follow How to Fix "No Internet, Secured" Wi-Fi Error on Windows 11 instead — that exact message has its own dedicated fix.

  1. Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot.
  2. Click Other troubleshooters.
  3. Click Run next to Network Adapter.
  4. Select Wi-Fi if prompted.

2. Reinstall the Network Adapter Driver ​

Corrupted drivers are the #1 cause of Wi-Fi failure. If your Wi-Fi connects fine but keeps dropping every few minutes, follow How to Fix Wi-Fi Keeps Disconnecting on Windows instead — intermittent drops have their own set of fixes.

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand Network adapters.
  3. Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter (look for "Wireless", "Intel", or "Realtek").
  4. Select Uninstall device.
  5. Important: Do not check the box to "Attempt to remove the driver for this device" (unless instructed by IT).
  6. Click Uninstall.
  7. Restart your computer immediately. Windows will reinstall the driver automatically upon boot.

3. Network Reset ​

If all else fails, a full network reset allows you to start fresh.

  1. Go to Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings.
  2. Click Network reset.
  3. Click Reset now > Yes.
  4. The computer will restart automatically after 5 minutes.

Troubleshooting ​

DANGER

After a Network Reset, you will need to re-enter your Wi-Fi password.

Symptom / ErrorPotential CauseSolution
"Can't connect to this network"Forgot PasswordSelect "Forget" on the network and rejoin.
Wi-Fi Icon MissingHard SwitchCheck for a physical Wi-Fi switch on your laptop.

Last updated:

Frequently asked questions

Why does my Wi-Fi icon disappear completely in Windows 11?
This happens when the physical Wi-Fi adapter on your motherboard stops communicating with Windows. A hard reboot (holding the power button for 30 seconds) usually forces it to reset.
What does 'Connected, no internet' mean?
It means your computer successfully connected to the local router, but the router itself cannot reach the outside world. You should restart the physical router box, not just your computer.