Ever found yourself stuck with a device that says you’re connected to WiFi but you can’t get online? You’re not alone. This problem—wifi connected but no internet—can be really confusing. It might seem like your internet service provider is at fault, or maybe it’s just a router glitch.
In this article, we’ll look at quick fixes and more detailed steps to solve this issue in just ten minutes. We’ll help you figure out why you’re not getting internet access.
If you keep seeing DNS errors during this problem, follow this guide next: DNS Server Not Responding Fix: Simple Steps (2026)
Key Takeaways
- The ‘wifi says connected but no internet’ issue can stem from various causes.
- Simple troubleshooting methods can quickly restore your connection.
- Understanding your device settings can help prevent future disruptions.
- Identifying whether the problem is with your ISP or router is crucial.
- Advanced fixes may be necessary if basic solutions don’t work.
- Your device’s time and date settings can affect internet connectivity.
What This Error Usually Means
It’s important to understand why your wifi says connected but no internet. This problem can come from many sources. It might be a simple setting or a bigger issue with your ISP.
ISP Outage vs Router Issue
First, check if the problem is with your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or your router. An ISP outage can cause you to see no internet even though you’re connected. Try to see if your ISP is working by checking their website or calling them.
If the ISP is okay, the problem is probably with your router.
DNS Problems
Then, look into dns problem wifi. DNS servers are key for internet access. They translate website names into IP addresses. If they’re down, you can’t connect to websites, even though you’re connected.
Try changing your DNS settings to a more reliable service. This might fix the issue.
Captive Portal or Login Needed
Lastly, see if you need to log in to use the network. This is common in public Wi-Fi. You might need to accept terms or enter your details to get online.
In these cases, you’ll see you’re connected but can’t access the internet until you log in.
Quick Fixes to Try First
When you first see that you’re wifi connected but no internet on Windows 11, try some quick fixes. These simple steps often fix the problem quickly. Start with the easiest steps before trying more complex solutions.
Restart Router and Modem
Restarting your modem and router is a simple yet effective method. This action often resolves the problem of internet not working on wifi by refreshing all your network connections. Unplug both devices, wait about 30 seconds, and plug them back in. Allow a few moments for them to fully reboot.
Test Another Website or Device
If restarting doesn’t help, check if the issue is specific to one site or device. Try accessing a different website or even connecting with another device. If other sites load or the second device works fine, the problem may be with a specific site or your current device setup, indicating connected no internet access.
Turn Off VPN and Proxy
Sometimes, VPNs and proxy settings can interfere with your connection. If you have these services enabled, consider turning them off temporarily. This adjustment could restore internet access if these tools are blocking your connection due to misconfigurations.
Safe Fix Steps
If quick fixes didn’t work, try these safe steps. Each step is designed to fix issues that stop you from getting a stable internet connection. These steps are easy to follow and can help fix the ‘wifi connected no internet windows 11’ problem.
Renew IP Address and Reconnect
First, renew your IP address. This can solve many network connectivity problems. Go to your network settings and choose to release and renew your IP. Then, reconnect to refresh the link between your device and router.
Change DNS (Safe DNS Options)
Changing your DNS settings might help with a dns problem wifi. Try using Google DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) for a faster and more stable connection. Update your network settings with these DNS options for better performance.
Check Date and Time Settings
Make sure your device’s date and time are correct. Wrong settings can cause connectivity issues. Go to your system settings and adjust them if needed to fix your internet connection.
Reset Browser Network Cache
Clearing your browser’s network cache can solve ‘wifi says connected but no internet’ problems. Go to your browser settings and clear cached files. This will help your browser load web pages correctly.
Advanced Fixes
If your device says “wifi connected but no internet”, it’s time for advanced troubleshooting. These steps can help when simple fixes don’t work. But, be careful, as some actions can change your device and network settings.
Network Reset in Windows (Warning)
A network reset in Windows can fix ongoing issues like no internet access. It resets all network settings to default. This means you’ll need to reconnect to Wi-Fi after. Here’s how to do a network reset:
- Open the Start menu and go to Settings.
- Select “Network & Internet”.
- Scroll down to “Network reset” and click on it.
- Confirm the action and wait for your device to reset.
Router WAN Settings Check (Basic)
Checking your router’s WAN settings can solve dns problems and no internet issues. Correct settings are key for a stable connection with your ISP. To check your router’s WAN settings:
- Access your router’s web interface. This usually involves entering the router’s IP address in a web browser.
- Log in with the admin credentials (often found on the router or in the manual).
- Navigate to the WAN or Internet settings.
- Ensure that the connection type matches the requirements of your ISP.
- Save changes and reboot the router.
By trying these advanced fixes, you can tackle deeper issues causing “wifi connected but no internet”. If problems continue, reaching out to your ISP for help is a good idea.
FAQs
Q: What should I do first if my WiFi says connected but no internet?
A: Restart your modem and router first, then test on a second device. If all devices fail, it’s likely the router or ISP. If only one device fails, it’s likely that device’s settings.
Q: How can I determine if the problem is with my device or the network?
A: Test at least one more device on the same WiFi. If the second device works, the network is fine and the issue is with your original device. If both devices fail, focus on the router, modem, or ISP.
Q: What does it mean if there’s a DNS problem with my Wi-Fi?
A: It means your device is connected to the router, but DNS lookups are failing so websites cannot load. Switching DNS or flushing DNS often fixes it.
Q: Why is there a captive portal, and how does it affect my internet access?
A: Some networks require you to sign in or accept terms (hotels, cafés, airports). Until you complete that login page, WiFi may show “connected” but you won’t have internet.
Q: Are there any simple solutions if my internet is still not working after the quick fixes?
A: Yes. Renew your IP address, change DNS, confirm date and time, and clear browser cache. These are safe steps and often restore access.
Q: What risks do I need to consider with advanced troubleshooting, like a network reset?
A: Network reset removes saved WiFi networks and passwords and resets network settings. It’s safe, but you must reconnect to WiFi again afterward.
Q: How can I clear my browser’s network cache?
A: Clear cached images/files in your browser settings, then fully close and reopen the browser. If possible, test using a second browser to confirm the result.
Further Reading
Most Wi-Fi problems are simple once you narrow them down: speed, stability, band choice, or DNS. These posts help you cover all four without wasting time:
- WiFi Slow on Laptop But Fast on Phone: Fix It (2026)
- WiFi Keeps Disconnecting: Fix Dropouts
- 2.4GHz vs 5GHz WiFi: What’s the Difference?
Browse all Wi-Fi and networking help here: Wi-Fi & Networking
