These days, everyone needs the internet, so Wi-Fi going down can be a source of panic. Never fear, however, as there are many tried and tested methods of getting back online! The most common issues with your Wi-Fi in Windows 11 also have common solutions.

What to Do When Your Windows 11 Wi-Fi Isn't Working

If you notice that your computer isn't connected to the internet—even when it should be—it could be the result of a few problems. Sometimes, the internet in your area may just be down due to your internet service provider (ISP) experiencing outages. Other times, it can be an issue with your PC or router. While the former situation can't really be fixed on your end, the latter issues can be addressed directly. On top of that, there may be even more niche problems that are outside your control, which adds to the confusion of diagnosing and troubleshooting.

A common concern that can pop up is interference. This is when there are devices nearby that are screwing around with your Wi-Fi signal. Some household electronics like microwave ovens work by using the same frequency range as certain Wi-Fi networks. Though, that's not the only object that can cause problems. There are Bluetooth devices and cordless phones that can hinder your Wi-Fi performance. Make sure your Wi-Fi router is as far away as possible from such devices to avoid this issue. A microwave oven can only be so smart.

There could also be physical problems plaguing you. For example, one of your Wi-Fi router's cables may be damaged. Before you start running a series of diagnostics, check your router and its cables to make sure everything is in working condition. If you find a frayed cable or visible damage to your router, you may need to buy replacement parts—or an entirely new router. Alternatively, you can pick up some mesh routers to eliminate Wi-Fi dead spots in your home.

Once you've checked for the above-mentioned major malfunctions, it's time to take action. One of the best, if not the best, methods of sorting out Wi-Fi issues quickly and easily is to reset your Wi-Fi network settings.

How to Reset Your Wi-Fi on Windows 11

Start by opening Settings. Then, click "Network & Internet" followed by "Advanced Network Settings" from the right-side menu. Once you've done that, click "Network Reset" on the right. At this point, click "Reset Now." Finally, click "Yes" to confirm your decision.

After following the above steps, you can close the Settings window and restart your computer. When you turn it back on, you'll have to reconnect to your preferred network. Most of the time, this sorts out whatever minor issues you're having.

Why Your Wi-Fi Keeps Disconnecting

There are tons of reasons why your Wi-Fi keeps disconnecting: physical router damage, power blips on the electrical grid, ISP outages, poor signal strength, and a slow internet plan. However, if the issue isn't a severe one, you can try one of three simple troubleshooting methods:

• Restart your router
• Reset your router to its default settings
• Restart your computer

The exact way to restart your router, as well as the way to reset the former to its default settings, will vary depending on the make and model of your router. Most of the time, you can consult whatever documentation said router or computer came with. If you no longer have such documents (or if you don't feel like wading through the endless packages in your closet), you can always look up your router on its manufacturer's official website.

Rebooting a Windows 11 PC is very straightforward, however.

Restarting and resetting devices helps them "start fresh" when attempting to do anything. Sometimes, for one reason or another, PCs can get "confused" when there's a lot going on. For example, there be more laptops, desktop computers, tablets, and smartphones connected than the router is built to handle. Taking things from the top can sort out both known and unknown issues without you needing to do anything: the ideal solution!

Update Your Drivers

Another great trick is to update your Wi-Fi adapter drivers and Wi-Fi firmware drivers. Such drivers are software designed to help PCs locate and connect to Wi-Fi signals—among a few other feats. To do so, open the Device Manager on your PC.

Next, scroll down to where you see "Firmware" and "Network Adapters." Click them respectively to show what's nested in these categories. Then, click whatever you want to update. Afterward, hover over the black icon that has a green arrow next to it. This is the "Update Device Driver" button. Click it to update whatever you desire. With any luck, this will sort out the issue you're having.

What to Do When Your Wi-Fi Disappears

Before you call your network provider in utter outrage ("I was right in the middle of downloading the latest Minecraft update, goshdarnit!"), we recommend that you take a look at the available networks in your area. Despite your router likely being closer to your PC than those of your neighbors, sometimes it won't show up first in the list of nearby networks.

Start your search by clicking the Wi-Fi symbol on the right of your taskbar. Then, click the blue box with the simple white arrow labeled "Manage Wi-Fi Connections." When you do, a list of the available networks appears.

Give it a moment, as it takes time for all of them to load into this mini menu. It shouldn't take any longer than 10-15 seconds (at most). Now scroll through them and see if you can spot your desired signal. If your Wi-Fi router is set up correctly—and is in working order—you'll find your network here. If you don't see it, try updating your drivers as we mentioned before. Doing so can help your computer find your network signal again.

The reliable restart method goes a long way! It can be applied to more than Wi-Fi issues. Pretty much anything that can be turned on and off benefits from a restart once in a while. This includes increasing the performance of your smartphone and even troubleshooting problems with media streaming devices such as Google Chromecast. While it can feel like a drag to stop what you're doing to restart your laptop, what else are you going to do? Read a book? Oh, right, you kind of need the internet for that as well...