How to Fix Ethernet Not Working on Windows 11 (Complete Step-by-Step Guide)

 Introduction

Is your Ethernet not working on Windows 11 even though the cable is connected? A wired internet connection is usually more stable than WiFi, so when it stops working, it can be extremely frustrating.

Whether you're seeing “No Internet Access” or your Ethernet adapter is not detected, this complete step-by-step guide will help you fix Ethernet not working on Windows 11 quickly and effectively.

How to Fix Ethernet Not Working on Windows 11

Why Is Ethernet Not Working on Windows 11?

Before jumping into solutions, let’s understand the common causes:

  • Loose or damaged Ethernet cable

  • Faulty router or modem port

  • Disabled network adapter

  • Outdated or corrupted drivers

  • Incorrect network configuration

  • Windows update conflicts

Now let’s fix the problem step by step.

Step 1: Check the Ethernet Cable and Router Port

Start with the basics:

  1. Make sure the Ethernet cable is firmly connected.

  2. Try using a different cable.

  3. Switch to another LAN port on your router.

  4. Test the cable on another computer.

If the internet works on another device, the issue is likely your PC settings.

Step 2: Restart Router and Computer

Many connection issues are temporary.

  • Turn off your router.

  • Unplug it for 2–3 minutes.

  • Restart your PC.

  • Turn the router back on.

Check if Ethernet starts working.

Step 3: Enable the Ethernet Adapter

Sometimes the adapter is disabled.

  1. Press Windows + X

  2. Click Device Manager

  3. Expand Network adapters

  4. Right-click Ethernet adapter

  5. Click Enable

If already enabled, try disabling and enabling it again.

Step 4: Update Ethernet Drivers

Outdated drivers are a common cause.

  1. Open Device Manager

  2. Right-click Ethernet adapter

  3. Click Update driver

  4. Choose Search automatically

Restart your computer after updating.

Step 5: Run Network Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in repair tool.

  • Go to Settings

  • Click System

  • Select Troubleshoot

  • Click Other troubleshooters

  • Run Internet Connections

Apply any recommended fixes.

Step 6: Reset Network Settings

If the problem persists:

  1. Open Settings

  2. Click Network & Internet

  3. Scroll to Advanced network settings

  4. Click Network reset

  5. Select Reset now

Your PC will restart automatically.

Step 7: Reset TCP/IP and Flush DNS

Open Command Prompt as Administrator and type:

ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns
netsh int ip reset

Restart your PC.

Step 8: Check Windows Updates

Sometimes updates fix compatibility issues.

Install any available updates.

When Ethernet Adapter Is Not Showing

If your Ethernet adapter is missing:

  • Open Device Manager

  • Click View → Show hidden devices

  • Scan for hardware changes

If still missing, reinstall network drivers from your motherboard manufacturer’s website.

Final Thoughts

Ethernet not working on Windows 11 can be caused by hardware or software issues. By following the steps above, most users can restore their wired internet connection within minutes.

Start with simple checks like cables and router ports, then move to driver updates and network reset if needed.

For more troubleshooting tutorials, keep exploring QuickFix Tech.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

POE Metadata Error: Causes, Fixes, and Step by Step Solutions

How to Fix No Internet Secured Error on Windows 11 (Step-by-Step Guide)