The dreaded “Connected, no internet” error message can be incredibly frustrating when you’re trying to get online. While your device shows it’s connected to WiFi, nothing will load. Before calling your internet service provider, try these troubleshooting steps to get back online.
Check Your Router and Modem
The first place to look when your internet isn’t working is your router and modem. These devices act as the gateway between your home network and the wider internet.
Step 1: Check if the lights on your modem and router are on and steady. Flashing lights often indicate a connection problem.
Step 2: Unplug both your modem and router from power.
Step 3: Wait at least 30 seconds, then plug the modem back in.
Step 4: Wait for the modem lights to stabilize, then plug the router back in.
Step 5: Allow 2-3 minutes for both devices to fully restart and reconnect.
This simple power cycle can often resolve connectivity issues by clearing temporary glitches and forcing your devices to establish fresh connections.
Verify the Problem Scope
Before diving deeper, it’s important to determine if the issue is affecting all devices or just one.
Step 1: Try connecting to the internet from another device like a smartphone or tablet.
Step 2: If other devices can connect, the problem likely lies with the original device’s settings or network adapter.
Step 3: If no devices can connect, the issue is probably with your router, modem, or ISP.
Check Physical Connections
Loose or damaged cables can cause internet connectivity problems that are easy to overlook.
Step 1: Inspect all cables connecting your modem, router, and computer (if using a wired connection).
Step 2: Ensure cables are firmly plugged in at both ends.
Step 3: Look for any visible damage to cables and replace if necessary.
Step 4: If using WiFi, try connecting your device directly to the router with an Ethernet cable to rule out wireless issues.
Flush Your DNS Cache
Your device’s DNS cache stores information about websites you’ve visited. Sometimes this cache can become corrupted, leading to connectivity issues.
Step 1: Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
Step 2: Type the following command and press Enter:
ipconfig /flushdns
Step 3: You should see a message confirming the DNS cache was successfully flushed.
Step 4: Restart your browser and try connecting again.
Update Network Adapter Drivers
Outdated or corrupted network adapter drivers can prevent your device from connecting properly to the internet.
Step 1: Open Device Manager on your Windows PC.
Step 2: Expand the “Network adapters” section.
Step 3: Right-click on your WiFi or Ethernet adapter and select “Update driver.”
Step 4: Choose “Search automatically for updated driver software.”
Step 5: If Windows doesn’t find a new driver, visit the manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest version manually.
Disable VPN or Proxy Services
VPNs and proxy services can sometimes interfere with your internet connection, especially if they’re misconfigured or experiencing issues.
Step 1: Temporarily disable any VPN software you’re using.
Step 2: Check your browser’s proxy settings:
- For Chrome, go to Settings > Advanced > System > Open proxy settings
- For Firefox, go to Options > General > Network Settings
Step 3: Ensure “No proxy” is selected or “Automatically detect settings” is checked.
Step 4: Try connecting to the internet again without the VPN or proxy enabled.
Contact Your ISP
If none of the above steps resolve your issue, the problem may lie with your internet service provider.
Step 1: Check your ISP’s website or social media for any reported outages in your area.
Step 2: Use a mobile device to run a speed test and compare the results to your plan’s promised speeds.
Step 3: Contact your ISP’s customer support for further assistance. They may be able to:
- Reset your connection remotely
- Check for line issues or area-wide problems
- Schedule a technician visit if necessary
By systematically working through these troubleshooting steps, you can often resolve internet connectivity issues without the need for professional help. Remember to document what works, as it may save you time if similar problems occur in the future.