No Internet Connection? How to Troubleshoot Internet Issues – It’s incredibly frustrating when your internet is n’t working. Whether you ’re hooked up to Wi- Fi but without internet access or you ’re having trouble with a wired Ethernet connection, we ’ll show you the quickest styles to identify the problem and get back online.
But first, we largely recommend you stop now and try resuming your modem and router( instructions are handed latterly on this runner).
On this runner, we ’ll first help you diagnose whether you have an internet signal issue or a problem with your Wi- Fi. Once you ’ve discovered which type of problem you have, continue to either the internet signal troubleshooting section or the Wi- Fi troubleshooting section. However, use our advanced troubleshooting section for particularly tricky circumstances, If you ’re still stumped.
Alternately, you can jump straight to our complete list of internet fixes and try each one until you ’re back online.
Is the Issue with your internet signal or your Wi- Fi? Troubleshoot Here
You can separate an internet signal issue from a Wi- Fi issue by using the following crucial troubleshooting way designed to detect the source of the problem. Internet signal issues have different fixes than Wi- Fi issues so, it’s important to find out which you ’re dealing with to get back online ASAP.
Check the lights on your Equipment
Nearly all modems and routers have LED status lights. You may also have a quintet unit that’s an each- by- one modem/ router( also called a gateway). Either way, the LED status lights on your outfit are veritably helpful for snappily diagnosing network problems.
Check the internet signal light
The light for an internet connection is on your modem and is generally labeled WAN, Internet, or with a globe icon, and you can tell the internet is on if the light( generally white or green) is solid.
still, you have an internet signal problem as your modem is n’t successfully connecting to the internet, If the light is red or not on a tall. However, skip ahead to our internet signal troubleshooting section, If this is you.
Check the Wi- Fi light
The WiFi light( s) will be on your router or nearly below the internet connection light if you have a modem/ router quintet unit. Markers for Wi- Fi lights vary but generally will read “2.4 G ” and “ 5G, ” “ WLAN, ” or “ Wireless. ” These lights should be on and are generally blinking. However, your router is n’t broadcasting a signal, If the Wi- Fi light( s) are out or red. Skip to the Wi- Fi troubleshooting section to begin troubleshooting.
still, read on for the coming way, If the outfit lights are n’t revealing your internet issue.
Pro tip
A lot of internet issues can be remedied snappily by simply resuming your modem and router. It’s an easy fix that’s always worth a shot.
To renew your modem and router, open the power string for 10 seconds and plug it back by. The outfit will take a many twinkles to reboot.
Try using an Ethernet string to test your connection
still, try plugging your computer directly into your router with an Ethernet string, If you ’re on Wi- Fi. This is the tried and true way to separate signal issues from Wi- Fi issues. Connect the Ethernet string to the harborage on your computer, and plug the other end into one of the LAN anchorages on your router( these are generally unheroic). Connecting the computer directly to the single harborage on a modem bypasses essential security measures erected into the router. You need to connect to a router or modem/ router quintet unit to remain protected online.
still, also you have a Wi- Fi problem; continue to our Wi- Fi troubleshooting section, If your internet comes back when you use a wired Ethernet connection. However, the problem is probably bigger than your Wi- Fi, but it might still just be your device, If you still do n’t have internet. Try penetrating the web on a different device. However, move on to our internet signal troubleshooting section to break the problem, If you still ca n’t get online.
Check for an internet outage
It could be that you ’re not the only one whose internet is down. You can find information about internet outages on the website Down Sensor, or you can communicate your internet service provider( ISP) to probe.
The point or service you ’re trying to pierce could also be down. Try a many different websites. However, the original website you went to could be down for all callers, If they load duly.( You can confirm this by codifying in the URL atdownforeveryoneorjustme.com.)
Pro tip
still, you may be suitable to use your cell phone as a mobile Wi- Fi hotspot to get online, If the internet is down in your area. You can also go outdoors in hunt of a public Wi- Fi hotspot to connect to. Take a look at our Wi- Fi hotspot companion for further details.
Wi- Fi without internet access
still, there’s presumably commodity wrong with your internet signal, If you ’re connected to your Wi- Fi but still do n’t have internet access. The same is true if you ’re unfit to pierce the internet using a wired connection. Try these fixes first.
renew your modem, router, and device
resuming your modem and router should be the first thing you do when encountering an internet signal issue. Do n’t skip this step! This is nearly always what tech support will ask you to try first, as it frequently solves the problem.
To renew your outfit, open the power string for 60 seconds and plug it back by. The outfit will take a many twinkles to reboot. It’s also a good idea to renew the device you ’re using.
Check your lines and cables
Cables and lines frequently come loose or damaged from repeated pressure stress. The conduit feeding the internet to your modem is either a coextensive string( the same used for string television), an Ethernet string, or a phone string. The stylish way to troubleshoot lines is to change them all out, if you have extras.
else, make sure to connect these lines to both the modem and your wall outlet. Ethernet and phone lines should click when they’re completely fitted into a socket. Coextensive lines should be squinched on snugly.
Also check for damage. See if the string looks torn or maybe masticated by a pet. Ethernet and phone lines are especially prone to damage, as the bobby
cables outside are veritably thin.
Pro tip
Ethernet lines are n’t all the same, and it’s important to get the right type of Ethernet string for the job. See our Ethernet string composition to make sure you have the right bone
.
When should you communicate your provider?
It’s a good idea to try some introductory troubleshooting before reaching your provider. resuming your modem and checking cables will probably be the first effects tech support asks you to do anyway. But if you ca n’t break the problem on your own, reaching your provider is a good idea.
still, it can run a individual on your modem to see if it’s duly communicating with the network, If your ISP is n’t passing an outage. They may discover numerous possible issues, including a low signal position, device enrollment issues, obsolete outfit( indeed if you rent it from the ISP), or a glitch in the system. You may have just forgotten to pay your internet bill.
Utmost large ISPs also have online/ converse support options through their websites and apps, if you ’d rather not sit on the phone. still, move on to our advanced troubleshooting section further down the runner, If you ’re still having issues after trying these common fixes.
Wi- Fi troubleshooting
You ’ve figured out commodity’s wrong with your Wi- Fi. Wi- Fi gets tricky. It’s radio swells being broadcast by your router and a number of effects can intrude with those swells. Try these common fixes first.
renew your router
This fix works so frequently that it’s always worth trying first. The process is the same as resuming a modem open the router or gateway, stay 60 seconds, and plug it back by. It’ll take several twinkles to reboot.
Switch Wi- Fi bands(2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)
Your router likely transmits Wi- Fi over two frequency bands2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Try switching from the frequency band you ’re on to the other. This helps you avoid temporary hindrance while also resetting the connection between your device and router. It’s a common convention for the 5 GHz network to have a “ 5G ” marker following the network name( i.e., “ Jane’s Wi- Fi( 5G)). The2.4 GHz band is generally labeled with your network name( i.e. “ Jane’s Wi- Fi) without a frequency marker.
Each frequency band has its strengths and sins. principally, 5 GHz Wi- Fi is briskly but does n’t trip as far.2.4 GHz Wi- Fi peregrination further but is slower than 5 GHz and further susceptible to radio hindrance. So, if you ’re far from the router try the2.4 GHz, and if you need further speed and are within range, give the 5 GHz a pass.
Test your Wi- Fi on different bias
still, use your phone or tablet to see if you can get online over the same Wi- Fi connection, If you ’re on your laptop. However, also you know that your internet Wi- Fi is fine and it’s the disconnected device that’s having the problem, If it connects on one device but not the other.
Try a different Ethernet string
still, exchange it out with the one presently plugged into your modem and router and see if it makes a difference, If you have a spare Ethernet string. lines do n’t last ever, and it could be that your current Ethernet string has demurred the pail and needs to be replaced.
Pro tip
Need a recommendation on a good relief string? This Cat- 6 Ethernet string is fast, sturdy, and affordable. You could also check out our composition on the stylish Ethernet lines to learn more.
Ameliorate the position of your device and/ or router
For router placement, the crucial factors to consider are distance, elevation, and obstructions. So, when picking a spot for your router, choose nearly central and elevated relative to your bias. likewise, do your stylish to avoid placing the router near any electronic bias( especially broilers) or any disruptive shells.
Wi- Fi radio swells get weaker the further they travel. You want to have your device well within your router’s broadcast range. The Wi- Fi signal cadence on your device helps you judge the strength of the current Wi- Fi signal.
It’s also important to place the router as high as possible. The router’s signal broadcast is n’t a straight line to your device. The signal shines out like light from a bulb, creating a pate of Wi- Fi. A advanced router means a wider broadcast and better content of your home.
Certain obstructions and bias can also intrude with Wi- Fi signals. Wi- Fi can fluently pass through wood and drywall, but pipe, essence, concrete, and especially water are known to intrude with Wi- Fi signals. Broilers, baby observers, and cordless phones are also Wi- Fi killers when they ’re running.
See our composition on where to place your router to learn further about chancing that perfect spot for your Wi- Fi machine.
How to Troubleshoot Internet Issues – Advanced troubleshooting
Still, there’s still plenitude of effects to try, If none of those quick fixes did the trick. Keep in mind that your problem may have further than one cause. That’s why we recommend going through the below way first, as they’re the most common fixes for internet issues.
Below are some of the rarer internet issues. These can be tough to diagnose, so it’s stylish to just try each one out until commodity works.
Run the internet troubleshooter( for Windows)
still, run the erected- in troubleshooter program to see if your computer can fix the issue for you, If you ’re on Windows. For Windows 10, click to launch> Settings> Update & Security> Troubleshoot, and also elect the troubleshooter for Internet Connections.
Run Apple Diagnostics or Apple Hardware Test( for macOS)
utmost Mac computers have a erected- in individual program that will overlook your computer for issues, including problems with Wi- Fi. It’s called Apple Diagnostics on models from 2013 and latterly and Apple Hardware Test on models from 2012 with at least zilches X10.8.4.
To run Apple Diagnostics, dissociate any Ethernet lines and external drives, hit renew, and hold down the D key as the computer reboots. Pick a language, and also the individual will launch automatically.
You can launch the Apple Hardware Test in a analogous way. The only difference is that you should press Return or the right arrow button when the screen for the test appears as your computer is resuming and you ’re given the prompt to choose a language.
Clear your DNS cache
The DNS cache is a digital log your cyber surfer uses as a roadway to snappily load web runners you ’ve visited ahead. But your cache can produce specialized issues if there’s a glitch or online malware has fitted unasked URLs into your cache.
Then’s how to clear your cache on different bias
How to Troubleshoot Internet Issues – Windows
Go to the Command Prompt by doing one of these effects
- Option 1 Type “ cmd ” into the hunt bar
- Option 2 Find the Command Prompt roadway in the Windows System brochure
- Option 3 Type “ cmd ” into the Run window.
- Once you ’re in the Command Prompt, type in “ ipconfig/ flushdns. ” Hit Enter to flush the cache.
How to Troubleshoot Internet Issues – Mac
Run the Terminal app. You can find it one of these ways
- Option 1 Open Terminal in the Utilities brochure.
- Option 2 Hunt “ Outstation ” using the limelight function.
In the Terminal app, enter the command to flush your cache. The command you ’ll type can be slightly different depending on your Mac operating system( zilches)
- Yosemite and after sudo killall- HUP mDNSResponder
- Yosemite10.10 –10.10.3 sudo discoveryutil mdnsflushcache
- loners, Mountain Lion, Lion sudo killall- HUP mDNSResponder
- Snow Leopard sudo dscacheutil- flushcache
You ’ll be urged to enter in the director word for your account. also your cache is flushed and hopefully any glitches with it.
How to Troubleshoot Internet Issues – Smartphones
On an iPhone or Apple device, there are two easy ways to clear your DNS cache
- Option 1 Switch on and also switch off Airplane Mode.
- Option 2 renew your device.
For Android bias, then’s how you clear your DNS cache
- Step 1 Type “ chrome// net- internals/#dns ” into the URL bar in Chrome.
- Step 2 Tap the DNS menu.
- Step 3 Click Clear Host Cache.
After you ’ve cleared your cache, test your connection to see if it’s back online.
overlook for contagions and malware
Run a checkup to see if malware or a contagion is on your computer. vicious programs can use up a lot of your bandwidth or block your internet connection entirely. McAfee, Norton, and Bitdefender all make quality antivirus software.
Switch off your antivirus software
We surely recommend keeping antivirus software actuated on your computer. still, misconfigured antivirus protections can occasionally intrude with your internet connection, so try turning off your antivirus software or firewall to see if the internet comes back.
Use a different Wi- Fi channel
This is especially important for those living in apartments and other living situations where there are multiple routers in the same area. Routers automatically elect a frequency channel on which to broadcast your Wi-Fi. However, these channels can come overcrowded, If there are other bias and routers hard.
To assess the stylish channel for your home, you ’ll need to use a Wi- Fi channel analyzer. There are numerous free Android apps( iOS does n’t allow it, unfortunately) that can do this. The channel analyzer will tell you what channels are being heavily used. Once you find a fairly open channel, change the channel in your router’s settings. See our composition on how to log in to your router if you need some help with this.
See what’s on your Wi- Fi network
There may be a device on your Wi- Fi network that’s holding the bandwidth or creating other connectivity problems. Your router might also limit how numerous bias can be connected at formerly, and it could be remonstrating bias off the network as a result.
To find out what’s on your network, log in to your router’s interface( use your cell phone if you ca n’t get Wi- Fi on your computer or connect via Ethernet) and look for a list labeled with a term like “ DHCP guests, ” “ connected bias, ” or “ attached bias. ” generally, the name of the bias being used are included on the list( illustration “ Peter’s iPhone, ” “ Rebecca’s MacBook, ” or “ Computer 1 ”).
You can also figure out who’s using the Wi- Fi and ask everyone in your ménage if they ’re doing anything that’s taking up too important internet speed.
numerous routers let you protest bias off the Wi- Fi, so go ahead and give a stoner the charge if you do n’t know them or they ’re causing problems. You can also change the Wi- Fi word so they ca n’t get back on.
Make sure you have a working IP address
There’s a chance your computer is having trouble configuring a valid IP address. Your computer needs a unique IP to get on the internet, but you wo n’t be suitable to get online if multiple bias are assigned the same IP or if commodity has averted your computer from assigning one. It’s not a particularly common issue, but it can be — especially if you have multiple routers on the same home network.
To insure you have a valid IP address, use the instructions in our composition on how to find your IP address.
Force open the network’s login runner( for public Wi- Fi)
hospices, airfields, and cafes frequently give free internet — generally, all you have to do is open your cyber surfer and sign on to the public Wi- Fi network through a login screen. But what if that login runner refuses to load?
You can force open the login runner by codifying one of these canons into your cyber surfer’s address bar
- 127.1.1.1
- 1.1.1.1
- 192.168.1.1
- http://localhost
Get fiber internet
Fiber internet is by far the fastest and most dependable internet you can get. So if you can get a fiber internet package for your home, we largely recommend you go for it, since it’ll extensively reduce the chance of annoying retardations and service outages that are more common on other internet connection types.
You can get pets of anywhere from 100 Mbps to,000 Mbps on a fiber connection, giving you ample bandwidth to cover a range of conditioning and tasks while also supporting numerous other druggies on your Wi- Fi. Prices range from$ 35 per month to$ 100 per month.
Fiber is n’t available far and wide, unfortunately. But if you constantly have problems with your connection, it could be worth looking into some kind of upgrade or switching providers.
Upgrade your equipment – How to Troubleshoot Internet Issues
You may witness connection issues if you have outdated outfit that does n’t match the rearmost wireless norms802.11 ac( Wi- Fi 5) or802.11 layoff( Wi- Fi 6). You ’ll also want to insure that your modem supports DOCSIS3.0 protocol or newer( for string internet).
You may have issues with an aged router, computer, or other Wi- Fi device that does n’t cleave to recent wireless norms. In that case, you may want to invest in a new router. Or your computer may need a new wireless appendage( a device that lets you connect to a Wi- Fi network).
Then’s how to check the wireless standard of your computer
How to Troubleshoot Internet Issues – Mac
- Step 1 Hold down Option while clicking on the Apple menu in the top left wing of the screen, also elect System Information.
- Step 2 Scroll down to Network, click Wi- Fi in the drop- down menu, and look for the readout for Supported PHY Modes. This will tell you what wireless standard your computer is accoutered for.
How to Troubleshoot Internet Issues – Windows
- Step 1 Right- click on the launch menu button and also click the command for Device director.( Or type “ Device director ” into the hunt bar in the launch menu — either way works.)
- Step 2 Once you ’re in Device director, click on the menu named Network appendages and look for the table of your wireless appendage and the wireless standard it’s set to.
Reset your equipment to plant settings
still, it may be time to reset your router or gateway to its plant settings, If you ’ve tried everything differently to no mileage. This is a enough big step because it’ll restore the router/ gateway to the way it was when you first pulled it out of the box, wiping the slate clean.
Resetting your router will abolish your word and issue a dereliction one( which you’ll also want to change for security reasons). It’ll also abolish any memory of custom features or guest networks you ’ve set up through the router, and it’ll protest off all the bias that were inked onto the network.
Getting everything back over and running again will take a knob of time out of your day, so this is worth trying only if you have no other options.
Anyway, then’s how you do it. Use a safety leg or paperclip to push the button hidden in the bitsy hole at the reverse of the router. Hold it down for a many moments until the status lights go out and begin to reset.
Pro tip
Indeed if your internet is working OK , there are always ways to make your Wi- Fi connection indeed more. Take a look at our tips on how to ameliorate your Wi- Fi bandwidth.
Reset your computer’s network settings(a.k.a. the nuclear option)
still, it’s time to reset your computer’s network entirely, If all additional fails. This changes everything back to dereliction settings. It’s not the most accessible option, but it could be the fix you need to start from scrape and abolish the Wi- Fi bugs formerly and for all.
Keep in mind that this is n’t like turning off the computer and turning it back on. In the same way that resetting your router restores that outfit to plant settings, restoring your network completely wipes out your computer’s Wi- Fi settings, bringing it back to how it was when you were just setting it up for the first time.
Your computer will forget your network settings, including your Wi- Fi network’s name, watchwords, and VPN settings. Do this only as a last resort. Make sure you save your watchwords and other necessary word before doing the reset.
OK, also. Ready? Alright, then’s how to do it
How to reset your Wi- Fi network on Mac
- Step 1 Click Apple menu> System Preferences> Network.
- Step 2 Click on Wi- Fi in the drop- down menu on the left wing of the screen
- Step 3 Hit the disadvantage(-) button to remove it. also add it again by clicking the plus button() and opting Wi- Fi in the Interface options.
- Step 4 megahit Apply and close out of the Network settings.
How to reset your Wi- Fi network on Windows
- Step 1 Click to Windows Settings> Network & Internet> Status.
- Step 2 Hit the Network reset button.
- Step 3 megahit Reset now to confirm.
- Step 4 megahit yea to confirm formerly again.( This is just for Windows 10. For former Windows operating systems, see Microsoft’s Support runner.)
- Step 5 renew your computer and follow the prompts for Windows to guide you through setting up your new home network. Good luck!
Complete list of fixes if your internet isn’t working – How to Troubleshoot Internet Issues
still, have at it, If you ’d rather skip the troubleshooting and just start trying effects. Then are all our internet fixes in a simple list.
- renew your Equipment
- To renew your modem and router or gateway, open the power string and stay 60 seconds before plugging it back by. It’ll take a many twinkles to reboot. renew your device as well.
- Connect with an Ethernet string
- Connecting via Ethernet will rule out issues with your Wi- Fi network. However, there’s commodity snooping with your Wi- Fi, If you can get online via Ethernet. This fix gets you back online right down, and also you can use our Wi- Fi troubleshooting section to fix the issue.
- Check for an internet outage
The internet may be down in your area. You can use a point likedowndetector.com to see if anyone differently is having connection issues in your area. numerous ISPs also have outage cautions via their websites and apps. Of course, you could always just communicate your ISP to find out if there’s an outage. - Try using a different device
See if you can get a connection on a different device. The device you ’re using might not be connected duly to your router. - Check your cables and lines
Your lines and cables could be loose or damaged. Coextensive lines should be squinched on snugly and phone and Ethernet lines should be completely fitted into the sockets. While you ’re at it, look for signs of damage in the form of kinks, hard wringing, inordinate pressure, indeed bite marks from faves . You could also try just switching out all the lines if you have extras. The bobby
lines inside the string or in the connectors could have come disassociated without any egregious visible signs of damage. - Run your computer’s internet troubleshooter
commodity may be amiss within your computer’s operating system. Both Mac and PC computers have troubleshooters erected into their zilches that can break the problem for you. However, see our instructions on using your computer’s troubleshooter, If you need help. - Budge your router/ gateway
Your router’s placement can make or break your home’s Wi- Fi content. The crucial effects to flash back when choosing a position are elevation, distance, and obstructions. Elevate your router to give a wider content area. Choose a central position to cover your home as fully as possible. Incipiently, be aware of obstructions like essence, pipe, concrete, and water that can hinder Wi- Fi signals. Alternately, you could try moving your device closer to your router — nearly with a clear line of sight to avoid obstructions. See our composition on router placement for further information. - Update everything
Obviously, you ’ll need internet access to update your zilches, system firmware, and network software. To do so, you may need to use your mobile phone as a Wi- Fi hotspot, seek out a public Wi- Fi hotspot, or hop on a friend or family member’s internet connection. It’s important to keep the zilches and operations on your bias streamlined. Be especially aware of zilches updates, firmware updates( particularly network and wireless appendage updates), and antivirus operation updates. - insure your outfit is n’t obsolete
You may be using an obsolete modem, router, or gateway — indeed if you rent your outfit from your ISP. The provider will generally notify you if you ’re renting obsolete outfit, but it’s easy to overlook this alert.
Insure your modem supports the DOCSIS3.0 protocol or newer( for string internet). Your router and device should support the Wi- Fi 5 wireless standard or newer. The firmware on your outfit is generally streamlined automatically by the ISP. - Check your modem’s signal position
The signal from your ISP to your modem needs to be above a certain strength threshold to serve duly. Low signal to the modem could fluently affect in a slow or fully dead internet connection. It used to be that only a broadband technician with an precious cadence could tell your signal strength, but now, numerous routers and indeed some ISP apps will give you a signal reading. You can also call your ISP to run a individual on your modem. However, you presumably need a technician to come out and repair the problem, If you have low signal strength to your modem. - communicate your ISP
Your ISP can help you diagnose connection problems by running a individual on your outfit. client service can find and break all kinds of problems over the phone or through converse support. It’s clearly worth a try. However, you can set up an appointment with a technician just in case you ca n’t fix the issue yourself, If your issue ca n’t be answered over the phone. - Turn off your antivirus software
This is n’t commodity we recommend smoothly, but it could do the trick. Turning off your antivirus software makes your system more vulnerable to vicious software and cyber attacks. Still, your antivirus software is a major link between your device and the internet. The possibility of an issue then’s frequently worth exploring after exhausting the likely causes. still, we recommend you either turn it back on and get in touch with your antivirus software’s specialized support platoon or replace the software incontinently before browsing the web vulnerable, If you’re suitable to get online after killing your antivirus software. - Reset your outfit to plant settings
Resetting your modem and router or gateway reverts all settings to the plant defaults. The most important thing to flash back then’s that your watchwords and networks will all be canceled . You ’ll have to reset your network name and word and reconnect all your bias.
Also, the login credentials used to pierce and change your outfit’s settings will also switch back to the dereliction username and word( generally published on a sticker attached to the outfit). This is different from your Wi- Fi name and password. However, you should call your outfit’s manufacturer or ISP( for rented outfit) before trying this step, If you do n’t know your outfit’s dereliction login credentials. You could end up fully locked out else. See our instructions above to learn how to reset your outfit. - Make sure you have a working IP address
There’s a chance that your computer is having trouble configuring a valid IP address. Your computer needs a unique IP to get on the internet, but you wo n’t be suitable to get online if multiple bias are assigned the same IP or if commodity has averted your computer from assigning one. It’s not a particularly common issue, but it can be — especially if you have multiple routers on the same home network. See our instructions above to learn how to check for a valid IP address on Windows and Mac. - Reset your computer’s network settings
Resetting your network settings is analogous to resetting your outfit. Your computer’s network settings will return to their plant defaults, and you ’ll need to re-up your network information again.
See our instructions above to learn how to reset your computer’s network settings.
