Skip to main content
FoxShade Fix It, start overBack

Computer won't connect to Wi-Fi or the internet

Losing the internet is frustrating, but most of the time one of these simple steps brings it right back.

What to do

  1. Step 1: Check that other devices in your home (like a phone) can get online. If none of them can, the problem is the router, so restart it first.

  2. Step 2: Click the network icon (the Wi-Fi fan or little globe) at the bottom-right of the screen.

  3. Step 3: Make sure Airplane mode is off and the Wi-Fi button is turned on (it turns colored when on).

  4. Step 4: Click the small arrow next to the Wi-Fi button, pick your home network from the list and click Connect.

  5. Step 5: Type the Wi-Fi password carefully. Capital letters matter, and the password is often printed on a sticker on the router.

  6. Step 6: If it still won't connect, restart the computer using Start > Power > Restart.

  7. Step 7: Still nothing? Open Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and click Run next to Network and Internet. On Windows 10, it's Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.

Still stuck? If no device in your home can get online after restarting the router, contact your internet provider, as there may be an outage in your area.