Resolving Network Problems in Windows 10

Last Updated on September 3, 2025

This guide aims to assist in resolving common network issues in Windows 10 through systematic troubleshooting steps.

How to Fix Network Issues in Windows 10

1. Remove the Network Card Definition

   A potential cause of network issues can be problematic network adapters. To address this:

   • Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
   • In the Device Manager, find and expand Network adapters.
   • Right-click the problematic network adapter (whether it’s the wired or Wi-Fi adapter) and select Uninstall device.
   • Restart your computer. Windows will automatically attempt to reinstall the network adapter driver. If it doesn’t, you may need to manually install the driver using the manufacturer’s installation disk or downloaded drivers.
2. Update the Network Card Driver

   Outdated drivers can cause network issues. To update your network card driver:

   • Ensure you have another way to connect to the internet, such as a different network card or another device.
   • Identify your network card type and download the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s website.
   • Transfer the downloaded driver to your computer and install it.

     

3. Manually Add a Network Connection

   If automatic connection methods fail:

   • Right-click the network icon in the taskbar and select Open Network & Internet settings.
   • Go to Network and Sharing Center and click Set up a new connection or network.
   • Choose Manually connect to a wireless network, then enter the network name, security type, and security key (if applicable). Follow the prompts to complete the setup.
4. Restart Your Router

   Sometimes, the router might be causing the issue:

   • Turn off your router and unplug it for at least 10 minutes.
   • Plug it back in and restart it. This can reset the connection and resolve issues.
   • Ensure your router is in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating, which can also cause connectivity problems.
5. Run Network Commands
   • Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
   • Run the following commands:
     sh

     ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew

   • Restart both your computer and router. Wait for at least 30 seconds before turning them back on.
6. Use the Windows Network Troubleshooter
   • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
   • Select Internet Connections and click Run the troubleshooter. Follow any recommendations provided.
7. Boot in Safe Mode with Networking
   • Restart your computer in Safe Mode with Networking to see if the issue persists.
   • If the network works in Safe Mode, a program or service might be interfering with your network. Uninstall recently installed programs to identify the culprit.
8. Reset Network Settings
   • Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status.
   • Under Advanced network settings, click Network reset.
9. Modify DNS Settings
   • Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network Connections.
   • Right-click your network connection and select Properties.
   • Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
   • Choose Use the following DNS server addresses and enter:
     • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
     • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
   • Click OK and restart your computer.
10. Reset TCP/IP and DNS
    • Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
    • Run the following commands:
      netsh int ip reset resetlog.txt
netsh winsock reset
ipconfig /flushdns

    • Restart your computer.
11. Reinstall Network Driver
    • Open Device Manager.
    • Expand Network adapters, right-click your network adapter, and select Uninstall device.
    • Restart your computer to reinstall the driver.
12. Check for VPN Services
    • If you use a VPN, make sure it’s properly disconnected.
    • Try reconnecting and then disconnecting the VPN to reset the network settings.
13. Run System File Scan
    • Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
    • Run the following command:
      sh

      sfc /scannow

    • Wait for the scan to complete and restart your computer.

If none of these steps resolve the issue, consider resetting your PC while keeping your files. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Reset this PC > Get started and select Keep my files.