Troubleshooting: No Internet Connection

Initial Checks & Basic Steps

Experiencing an internet outage can be frustrating. This guide will walk you through common solutions to get you back online.

1

Check Physical Connections: Ensure your modem and router are powered on. Verify that all cables (Ethernet, coaxial, power) are securely plugged in at both ends.

2

Restart Your Equipment: Unplug the power from your modem and router. Wait for at least 30 seconds, then plug the modem back in. Once the modem lights are stable, plug the router back in. Wait a few minutes for both devices to fully boot up.

3

Check Other Devices: Try connecting to the internet with another device (smartphone, tablet, another computer). If other devices can connect, the issue might be with the specific device you are currently using.

4

Verify Wi-Fi Connection: If you're using Wi-Fi, make sure you are connected to the correct network and have entered the password correctly. Try forgetting the network and reconnecting.

Device-Specific Troubleshooting

For Windows:

Run the Network Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status, and click "Network troubleshooter".
Check IP Address and DNS: Open Command Prompt as administrator and run ipconfig /all. Ensure you have a valid IP address and DNS server. You can try flushing DNS with ipconfig /flushdns.
Restart Network Adapter: In Device Manager, disable and then re-enable your network adapter.

For macOS:

Use Network Diagnostics: Go to System Settings > Network, click "Assist Me", then "Diagnostics".
Renew DHCP Lease: Go to System Settings > Network > Wi-Fi (or Ethernet), click "Details...", then "TCP/IP" and click "Renew DHCP Lease".

For Linux:

Check Network Manager: Ensure your network service is running (e.g., sudo systemctl status NetworkManager).
Ping a Known Address: Open a terminal and try pinging a reliable IP address like Google's DNS server: ping 8.8.8.8. If this works but browsing doesn't, it might be a DNS issue.

Advanced Steps & Checks

If the basic steps haven't resolved the issue, consider the following:

5

Check Your ISP's Status: Visit your Internet Service Provider's (ISP) website or social media for any reported outages in your area. You may need to use your mobile data for this.

6

Test with an Ethernet Cable: If possible, connect your computer directly to the router using an Ethernet cable. This helps determine if the problem is with your Wi-Fi signal or your overall internet connection.

7

Check Router Settings: Access your router's administration page (usually via an IP address like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) to ensure it's functioning correctly and not experiencing any configuration errors.

Still No Internet? If you've tried all these steps and are still unable to connect, it's time to contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for further assistance. They can check your line and equipment remotely.