What to Do When Windows 11 Can’t Connect to a Network
Windows 11 is the latest version of Microsoft’s popular operating system for computers. While it comes with a host of new features and improvements over its predecessor, one issue that users may encounter is the inability to connect to a network. This can be frustrating, especially if you rely on your computer to access the internet or to connect with other devices. In this article, we will explore what you can do when Windows 11 can’t connect to a network.
1. Check your network connection
The first step in troubleshooting a network connection issue is to ensure that your network is functioning properly. You can do this by checking if other devices on the same network can connect to the internet. If they can’t, the problem may be with your network or internet service provider. In this case, you should contact your ISP for assistance.
2. Restart your computer and router
Sometimes, simply restarting your computer and router can resolve network connection problems. To do this, turn off your computer and unplug your router from the power source. Leave both devices off for a few minutes before plugging them back in and turning them on. This will give them time to reset and refresh their settings.
3. Update your network drivers
Outdated or corrupted network drivers can cause network connection problems. To update your network drivers, press Windows key + X and select Device Manager from the menu. In Device Manager, locate the network adapters section and expand it. Right-click on your network adapter and select Update driver. Follow the on-screen instructions to update your network driver to the latest version.
4. Disable your firewall and antivirus
Firewalls and antivirus software can sometimes interfere with network connections. If you have a firewall or antivirus software installed, try disabling them temporarily and see if you can connect to the network. If this solves the problem, you may need to adjust the settings of your firewall or antivirus to allow network connections.
5. Reset your network settings
Resetting your network settings can sometimes fix network connection issues. To do this, press Windows key + X and select Settings from the menu. In Settings, select Network & Internet and then click on Network reset. Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your network settings.
6. Disable IPv6
If you are still unable to connect to the network, you may need to disable IPv6. IPv6 is a network protocol that is used to connect devices to a network. In some cases, disabling IPv6 can solve network connection issues. To disable IPv6, press Windows key + X and select Settings from the menu. In Settings, select Network & Internet and then click on Change adapter options. Right-click on your network adapter and select Properties. Uncheck the box next to Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) and click OK.
Conclusion
If you are unable to connect to a network on your Windows 11 computer, the above steps can help you troubleshoot and resolve the issue. Try these steps one by one until you find a solution that works for you. If the problem persists, you may need to contact Microsoft support for further assistance.