If your PC is having trouble connecting to your WiFi network, here are several steps you can follow to troubleshoot and hopefully resolve the issue:
Step 1: Check Your WiFi Adapter
- Ensure the WiFi is enabled on your PC.
Sometimes, there might be a physical switch on the side of the laptop or a function key (e.g., Fn + F5) that toggles the WiFi.
- Inspect the WiFi adapter status in Device Manager (right-click on Start > Device Manager > Network adapters). Make sure it’s enabled and no error signs are visible.
Step 2: Check WiFi Signal
- Proximity to Router: Ensure you are within a good range of the WiFi router. Walls and floors can obstruct the signal.
- Interference: Other electronic devices (like microwaves and cordless phones) can interfere with WiFi signals.
Step 3: Restart Your Router
- Restart the WiFi router by unplugging it for about 30 seconds and then plugging it back in. This can resolve many connectivity issues.
Step 4: Forget and Reconnect
- Forget the WiFi network on your PC and reconnect to it. This can help if there's an issue with the network configuration:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi.
- Click on Manage known networks.
- Find your network, click on it, and select Forget.
- Search for your network again in the WiFi list, and reconnect by entering the password.
Step 5: Check for Windows Updates and Network Drivers
- Update Windows: Check for any pending updates that might include improvements or fixes for network issues (Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update).
- Update network drivers:
- Right-click on Start and open Device Manager.
- Expand Network adapters, right-click your WiFi adapter.
- Select Update driver and choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
Step 6: Check IP Configuration
- Reset TCP/IP Stack:
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
win+r, type cmd.
- Type
netsh int ip reset
and press Enter. - Type
netsh winsock reset
and press Enter. - Restart your PC.
Step 7: Check DHCP Settings
- Ensure your PC is set to obtain an IP address and DNS server address automatically:
- Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
- Click on your WiFi connection.
- Click Properties, then select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
- Ensure that "Obtain an IP address automatically" and "Obtain DNS server address automatically" are selected.
Step 8: Run Network Troubleshooter
- Run the built-in Windows troubleshooter:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
- Select Internet Connections and run the troubleshooter.
Following these steps should help diagnose and possibly fix your WiFi connection issue. If problems persist, it may be helpful to consult with the manufacturer of your WiFi router or your PC for further assistance.
Best regards
Rosy