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So it shows I'm connected to the internet, but nothing will load

Sasha Mack 0 Reputation points
2026-02-24T23:56:42.5033333+00:00

So it shows I'm connected to the internet, but no websites will load, they just keep timing out. I have a sneaky suspicion that it has to do with windows defender. But I've checked all the settings and have restarted it multiple times, but I'm getting no where.

Also, Microsoft store doesn't work either. But that issue has been going on longer than the internet issue.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Internet and connectivity

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  1. Sumit D - IA 161K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-02-26T11:15:11.0366667+00:00

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  2. Sumit D - IA 161K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-02-26T11:08:57.7866667+00:00

    Thanks, Sasha for getting back. I would add a screen recording on how to change DNS.

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  3. Sumit D - IA 161K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-02-25T02:22:11.68+00:00

    Hi Shasha,

    It sounds like a DNS fault instead. Let us verify that.

    1. Press the Windows+R keys on the keyboard, or Right-click Start on the Taskbar and choose Run.

    Type ncpa.cpl

    Press Enter.

    1. Right-click your device and select Properties.
    2. Double click IPv4 options to open IPv4 properties.
    3. Select the """"Use the following DNS servers"""" radio box, and enter the following in the addresses.

    1.1.1.1

    1.1.2.2

    1. Click OK and OK again.

    Restart your computer.

    I’m eager to hear back and work together to find a solution.

  4. Q&A Assist
    2026-02-24T23:56:50.74+00:00
    AI generated content. This question contains an answer created with AI from Q&A Assist. Learn more

    If you're experiencing issues where websites are timing out despite being connected to the internet, and suspect it might be related to Windows Defender, here are some steps you can take:

    1. Check Windows Defender Settings: Ensure that Windows Defender is not blocking your internet access. You can do this by checking the firewall settings. If necessary, temporarily disable Windows Defender Firewall to see if that resolves the issue.
    2. Restart Windows Defender Service: Sometimes, simply restarting the Windows Defender service can help. You can do this by:
      • Pressing Windows Key + R, typing services.msc, and hitting Enter.
      • Finding Windows Defender Antivirus Service in the list, right-clicking it, and selecting Restart.
    3. Check Network Settings: Ensure that your network settings are correct. You can try resetting your network settings by going to Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network reset.
    4. Check for Third-Party Software: If you have any third-party security software installed, it might be conflicting with Windows Defender. Try disabling or uninstalling it temporarily to see if that resolves the issue.
    5. Microsoft Store Issues: For the Microsoft Store not working, you might want to check if the Microsoft Store Install Service is running. You can do this in the same services window where you checked Windows Defender. Make sure it is set to Automatic and is currently running.

    If these steps do not resolve your issues, you may need to consider further troubleshooting or contacting Microsoft support for assistance.

    References:

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