Working from home in 2023 may lead to more internet disruptions. You check different devices and see no internet connection, even though WiFi is active.
It seems confusing, but several factors can cause this issue. Here’s how to resolve network problems when there is no internet connection.
Step One: Check If Your Internet Provider Has an Outage
If every device shows no internet connection but WiFi is still on, your provider may be experiencing an outage.
Before restarting your router or adjusting cables, check for service interruptions.
Use your phone’s mobile data to visit your provider’s website or social media for outage updates.
If no information is available, websites like Down Detector or Thousand Eyes Outages Map track internet issues.
You can also contact your provider to confirm if the outage is on their end.
(If internet outages seem more frequent, you’re not wrong. CNET reports that providers struggle with rising demand, extreme weather, and natural disasters, leading to more disruptions.)
Step Two: Restart the Modem and Router
“Did you try turning it off and on again?”
Restarting can fix internet issues. Always try the most straightforward solution first. If using only a router, switch it off and unplug it. Wait a minute, then plug it in and turn it back on.
For setups with both a modem and a router, power them off and unplug both. Wait a couple of minutes.
First, plug in the modem and wait one minute. Then, plug in the router. These devices usually take five to ten minutes to restart. After that, check if the internet is working.
Restarting remains one of the best ways to fix internet issues. If the problem continues, move to the next step.
Step Three: Verify Router Permissions
Network permissions may block access if the internet still doesn’t work and the router functions correctly.
Every WiFi network has Media Access Control (MAC) filtering, which controls which devices can connect. Incorrect settings may prevent devices from staying online.
For Windows users, follow these steps to check permissions:
- Press the Windows key and type cmd in the search bar.
- Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
- In the Command Prompt window, type ipconfig and press Enter.
- Copy the Default Gateway IP address (e.g., 192.168.X.X).
- Open a web browser, enter the copied number in the address bar, and press Enter.
- The router’s settings page will appear. Log in using the credentials printed on the back of the device. If unchanged, the default username is often admin.
- Locate MAC address filtering and turn it off or adjust settings to allow device access.
Step Four: Reset the Network
If restarting and adjusting router settings do not restore the connection, resetting the network may help.
For Windows users, follow these steps:
- Open the Search bar and type Settings.
- Click Network & Internet.
- Select Status from the left menu.
- Click Network Troubleshooter.
- Choose Network Reset and follow the instructions.
The reset process will refresh network settings and reconnect devices. After completing the steps, select the WiFi network and connect again.
No Internet Connection? Where to Find Help
If your internet is down, you still have options. The steps above can help fix the issue when all your devices fail to connect to WiFi.
If nothing works, contact your internet provider. A faulty device may need replacing, or the problem could be with your provider’s service to your home.
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