Step-by-step instructions
Check a second device
Try the same Wi-Fi on a phone. If both devices fail, the router, fibre connection or internet provider is more likely to be involved.
Check if mobile data works
Turn off Wi-Fi on your phone and open a familiar website using mobile data. This helps separate a website problem from an internet-connection problem.
Restart Wi-Fi on the laptop
Turn Wi-Fi off and on, then reconnect to your usual network. If you use a VPN, temporarily disconnect it while testing.
Restart the router safely
If several devices fail, use the router power button or unplug and reconnect it after a short wait. Do not press the recessed factory-reset button: that can erase provider settings.
Use Windows network help
On Windows 11, open the Network & Internet troubleshooting option in the Get Help app. Follow its suggestions before attempting advanced configuration changes.
Contact your provider with details
Tell the ISP whether the router shows unusual lights and whether multiple devices fail. Keep a record of when the outage began.
Mistakes to avoid
- Factory-resetting the router without provider instructions.
- Changing DNS and other advanced settings before simple checks.
- Assuming the provider is down when only one device is affected.
Frequently asked questions
Why does Wi-Fi show full signal but websites do not open?
Signal bars only show your connection to the router; the router may have no working upstream internet connection.
Should I change my router password first?
Not usually. First determine whether the issue is one device or the entire connection.
Original help source
Instructions can change as apps and devices are updated. Use this official product or consumer-protection guide to confirm the current steps.
Microsoft Support — Fix Wi-Fi connection issues in Windows ↗