The “Can’t connect to this network” error in Windows 10 can stem from various issues, including outdated drivers, incorrect network settings, or router problems. Below are six effective troubleshooting steps to resolve this issue, based on reliable sources and common fixes. Try these in order, testing your connection after each step.
1. Restart Your Computer and Router
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Why: A simple reboot can clear temporary glitches in your system or network hardware.
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How:
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Restart your Windows 10 PC.
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Unplug your modem and router from power for 30 seconds, then plug them back in and wait for them to reconnect.
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Try connecting to the Wi-Fi network again.
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2. Run the Network Troubleshooter
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Why: Windows’ built-in troubleshooter can automatically detect and fix common network issues.How:
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Network & Internet > Status.
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Click Network Troubleshooter (or Internet Connections troubleshooter in some versions) and follow the prompts.
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Let it scan and apply any suggested fixes, then test your connection.
photo: pixabay
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5. Forget and Reconnect to the Wi-Fi Network
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Why: Corrupted network data can prevent connections. Forgetting the network clears the cache for a fresh connection.
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How:
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Click the Wi-Fi icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner).
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Right-click the problematic network and select Forget.
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Reconnect to the network, entering the password carefully (ensure it matches the router’s configuration).
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Check if the issue is resolved.
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4. Update or Reinstall Network Adapter Drivers
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Why: Outdated or corrupted network drivers are a common cause of this error.
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How:
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Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
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Expand Network adapters, right-click your Wi-Fi adapter, and select Update driver > Search automatically for drivers.
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If no updates are found, visit the manufacturer’s website (e.g., Intel, Broadcom) to download the latest driver for your adapter model.
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Alternatively, right-click the adapter, select Uninstall device, then restart your PC to let Windows reinstall it automatically.
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Test the connection.
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5. Reset Network Settings
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Why: Incorrect network configurations can cause connectivity issues. A reset restores default settings.
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How:
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Network & Internet > Status > Network reset.
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Click Reset now and confirm. Your PC will restart, reinstalling network adapters and resetting settings.
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Reconnect to your Wi-Fi network and test.
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6. Run Network Commands in Command Prompt
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Why: Clearing network caches and resetting IP settings can fix deeper configuration issues.
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How:
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Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open Command Prompt as administrator.
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Enter the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
netsh winsock reset netsh int ip reset ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew ipconfig /flushdns -
Restart your PC and try connecting again.
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Additional Tips
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Check Wi-Fi Password and Security Type: Ensure the password is correct and the security type (e.g., WPA2) matches your router’s settings. Access router settings via its IP address to verify.
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Disable IPv6: If the above steps don’t work, disable IPv6 in your Wi-Fi adapter’s properties:
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Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings.
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Right-click your Wi-Fi network, select Properties, uncheck Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6), and click OK. Restart your PC.
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Test with Another Device: If other devices can’t connect to the same network, the issue may be with your router or ISP. Contact your ISP or try changing the router’s network name (SSID) in its settings.
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Check for Interference: Move closer to the router or reduce connected devices to avoid signal overcrowding, especially on public Wi-Fi.
Notes
If none of these steps work, contact your ISP to check for network outages or consult your router’s manual for specific reset instructions.
Be cautious with public Wi-Fi; use a VPN for security.
If you recently changed your router’s password or settings, ensure your PC’s settings reflect these changes.
By systematically applying these steps, you should resolve the “Can’t connect to this network” error and restore your internet connection.