Alex Ruben
How to Fix the “Can’t Connect to This Network” Error on Windows 10/11
Experiencing the “Can’t connect to this network” error on your Windows 10 or 11 computer can be quite frustrating, but don’t worry! In this guide, we will walk you through several straightforward troubleshooting steps designed to restore your internet connection quickly and efficiently. By following these steps, you will not only resolve this common issue but also gain insights into diagnosing and fixing similar network problems in the future.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer and Router
Before diving into complex troubleshooting, a simple restart can often fix connectivity issues. Begin by restarting your computer as well as your router. Unplug your router from the power source, wait for about 10 seconds, then plug it back in and let it fully boot up. Then, restart your computer. This process clears out temporary glitches that might be causing the connection problem.
Step 2: Forget and Reconnect to the Network
Sometimes, your computer’s stored settings for a specific network can cause connection issues. To resolve this, go to the network settings: click on the network icon in the system tray, select Network & Internet settings, then navigate to Wi-Fi and click on Manage known networks. Locate the troubled network, click on it, and select Forget. After this step, reconnect to the same network by selecting it from the list and entering the password. This fresh connection may resolve previously incorrect settings.
Step 3: Update Network Adapter Drivers
Outdated or corrupt network adapter drivers can lead to connectivity problems. To update your drivers, right-click on the Start menu and select Device Manager. Expand the Network adapters section, right-click on your network adapter, and choose Update driver. Follow the prompts to search automatically for updated driver software. Restart your computer after updating to complete the process.
Step 4: Run the Network Troubleshooter
Built-in diagnostic tools can help you identify and resolve network problems. To run the troubleshooter, go to Settings, click on Update & Security, and then select Troubleshoot. Click on Additional troubleshooters, select Internet Connections, and run the troubleshooter. Follow any on-screen instructions, and let it fix issues it detects automatically.
Step 5: Check Network Settings
Incorrect network settings can prevent connection. Make sure that your computer is set to obtain an IP address automatically. Go to Control Panel, select Network and Sharing Center, then click on Change adapter settings. Right-click your Wi-Fi network and select Properties. Double-click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and ensure both options are set to Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically. Click OK to save changes.
Step 6: Reset Network Settings
If none of the above steps have worked, resetting your network settings may help. Please note that this action removes all previous network configurations, so you’ll need to re-enter Wi-Fi passwords afterward. Go to Settings, select Network & Internet, and scroll down to Network reset. Click on it and follow the prompts to reset. Restart your computer to apply the changes.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
While performing these troubleshooting steps, it’s advisable to ensure that your Windows is up to date as system updates often include network fixes. Moreover, if you have installed any VPN software, it may interfere with network connections; consider disabling it temporarily to check if it resolves the issue. Always ensure your network hardware, such as routers and modems, is functioning correctly and is compatible with your operating system.
Conclusion
Resolving the “Can’t connect to this network” error can be achieved through several methods, each crucial in restoring your internet connection. By following this guide, you can troubleshoot effectively, enhancing your understanding of network connectivity issues. Remember, should these steps not resolve your issue, checking with your Internet Service Provider may provide additional insights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if none of these steps work?
If you have followed all the troubleshooting steps without success, it may be time to contact your Internet Service Provider for assistance. They can check for outages or issues on their end that might affect your connection.
Are there any risks in resetting my network settings?
Resetting your network settings will revert all network configurations to factory defaults, which can be inconvenient because you’ll need to set up your Wi-Fi connections again. However, it is generally a safe procedure that allows you to start anew with your network settings.
Can hardware issues cause this network error?
Yes, hardware issues with the router or network adapter can cause connectivity problems. If you suspect a hardware problem, testing with a different router or using a USB network adapter may help diagnose the issue.