How do I fix unable to connect to network?

Answered by Phillip Nicastro

To fix the issue of being unable to connect to a network, you can follow these steps:

1. Click on the Start button on your computer’s desktop.
2. Go to Settings, which can be found as a gear icon in the Start menu.
3. In the Settings menu, click on Network & Internet.
4. Once you are in the Network & Internet settings, click on the Status tab on the left-hand side.
5. Under the “Change your network settings” section, you will find an option called Network troubleshooter. Click on it.

By clicking on the Network troubleshooter, you will initiate a diagnostic tool that can help identify and resolve common network problems. The troubleshooter will guide you through a series of steps to diagnose and fix the issue. It will automatically detect and attempt to resolve any problems it finds.

Follow the prompts and instructions provided by the troubleshooter. It may ask you to restart your computer or perform certain actions to resolve the problem. Be patient and let the troubleshooter complete its process.

If the troubleshooter is able to fix the issue, you should now be able to connect to the network without any problems. However, if the problem persists, there are a few additional steps you can try:

1. Restart your router: Sometimes, network connectivity issues can be resolved by simply restarting your router. Unplug the power cable from your router, wait for a few seconds, and then plug it back in. Allow the router to fully restart and try connecting to the network again.

2. Check your wireless adapter settings: If you are using a wireless connection, make sure your wireless adapter is enabled and properly configured. Go to the Network & Internet settings, click on Wi-Fi on the left-hand side, and ensure that the Wi-Fi toggle switch is turned on. You can also try forgetting the network and reconnecting to it.

3. Update your network drivers: Outdated or incompatible network drivers can cause connectivity issues. Visit the manufacturer’s website for your computer or network adapter, and download the latest drivers for your specific model. Install the updated drivers and restart your computer.

4. Disable any VPN or proxy settings: If you have any virtual private network (VPN) or proxy settings enabled, try disabling them temporarily and check if you can connect to the network. Sometimes, these settings can interfere with your network connection.

5. Run a malware scan: Malware or viruses on your computer can sometimes disrupt network connectivity. Use a reliable antivirus or anti-malware software to scan your system for any potential threats. Remove any detected malware and restart your computer.

If none of these steps resolve the issue, it may be helpful to contact your internet service provider (ISP) for further assistance. They can help troubleshoot any network-related problems and ensure that your connection is working properly.

Remember, these steps are general troubleshooting measures, and the specific solution may vary depending on your operating system and network setup.