7 Ways to Fix Network Errors on Windows
Network errors on Windows devices can be a significant hindrance, whether you're trying to browse the web, access online files, or use cloud-based services. This guide provides step-by-step solutions to help you quickly restore your network to normal.
1. Check Your Internet Connection
Before diving into advanced troubleshooting, it's important to first verify that your internet connection is stable. Often, network errors are simply caused by temporary outages or issues with your service provider.
Check your modem and router: Ensure both are powered on and functioning. You can try rebooting the modem and router by unplugging them for 30 seconds and then plugging them back in.
Test with another device: If possible, check if other devices (such as a smartphone or another computer) can connect to the internet using the same network. If they cannot connect, the issue might be with your internet service or router.
2. Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, network errors are caused by temporary glitches in the system or networking devices. Restarting your computer can help reset the network configurations and clear any minor issues.
Click on the Start menu, select Restart, and wait for the system to reboot.
3. Update Your Network Drivers
Outdated or corrupted network drivers are a common cause of network connectivity issues. In many cases, updating your network adapter driver can resolve errors and improve your connection. Using a tool like Driver Sentry to update your drivers can ensure that you're using the latest versions, which can help resolve compatibility issues and network errors.
Download and install Driver Sentry: Click here to download and install the tool.
Run a driver scan: Open Driver Sentry, click "Scan", and the software will automatically scan the system for outdated or missing drivers.
Upgrade network drivers: After the scan, locate your network adapter (such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi) and click Upgrade next to it. Driver Sentry will automatically download and install the latest driver version for your device.
Restart your computer: After the driver update is complete, restart your system to apply the changes.
4. Run the Windows Network Troubleshooter
Windows 10 has a built-in network troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix many common network issues. This is an easy first step to resolving network errors.
Right-click the network icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner).
Select Troubleshoot problems.
Windows will diagnose the issue and offer solutions based on its findings. If it detects any problems, follow the on-screen instructions to resolve them.
Once the troubleshooter finishes, try reconnecting to the internet and check if the error is resolved.
5. Reset Network Settings
If the issue persists after updating your network drivers, you may need to reset your network settings. Resetting the TCP/IP stack can often resolve deeper connectivity problems caused by misconfigurations.
Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Press Win + X, then select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
Reset TCP/IP stack: Type the following command and press Enter:
netsh int ip reset
Release and renew IP address: In the same Command Prompt window, type the following commands and press Enter after each:
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
Restart your computer: This will reset your network configuration and attempt to obtain a new IP address from your router.
6. Disable and Re-enable Your Network Adapter
Sometimes, simply disabling and re-enabling your network adapter can fix network connectivity issues. This action forces the system to reinitialize the adapter and refresh its connection to the network.
Open Device Manager: Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
Expand the Network Adapters section: Locate your network adapter (e.g., Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
Disable the adapter: Right-click the adapter and select Disable device.
Re-enable the adapter: Wait a few seconds, then right-click the same adapter and select Enable device.
Test connectivity: Check your internet connection to see if the issue is resolved.
7. Check for Malware or Security Software Interference
Malware or overly aggressive antivirus/firewall settings can interfere with your network connection. Performing a thorough malware scan and temporarily adjusting security settings may help resolve the issue.
Run a malware scan: Use a trusted antivirus program to scan your system for malware or viruses.
Check firewall settings: Ensure that your firewall is not blocking internet access. You can do this by opening your firewall settings and reviewing active rules or temporarily disabling the firewall to test.
Disable VPN or Proxy: If you're using a VPN or proxy server, try disabling it to see if it's causing connectivity issues.
By following these methods, you should be able to restore your network connectivity and enjoy uninterrupted internet access. If the problem persists, it may be worth consulting a professional to diagnose potential hardware issues.
See also:
How to Fix The application was unable to start correctly
Fix Windows Key Not Working on Windows 10
