If Windows 11 shows Wi‑Fi connected but no internet, first test the same Wi‑Fi on another device. If other devices work, run Settings → Network & internet troubleshooting, forget and reconnect to Wi‑Fi, restart the router and PC, then use Network Reset only if the earlier fixes fail.
A Windows PC can be connected to the router while still having no internet access.
First find out whether the problem is your PC or your internet
Connect your phone to the same Wi‑Fi. If the phone also has no internet, the problem is probably the router, modem or internet service provider. If the phone works normally but the Windows PC does not, focus on the PC.
This one test prevents a lot of wasted troubleshooting.
Fix Wi‑Fi connected but no internet on Windows 11
- Run the Network and Internet troubleshooter. Microsoft recommends starting with the automated troubleshooter in the Get Help app on Windows 11.
- Turn Wi‑Fi off and back on. Also make sure Airplane mode is off.
- Forget the network and reconnect. Go to Settings → Network & internet → Wi‑Fi → Manage known networks, select your network and choose Forget. Reconnect using the password.
- Restart the modem/router. Unplug it, wait at least 30 seconds, reconnect it and wait for the status lights to stabilize.
- Restart the PC. This refreshes the adapter and completes pending network or Windows changes.
- Disconnect VPN software temporarily. If the internet immediately starts working, the VPN or its network adapter is likely involved.
- Check Windows Update. Install current updates, especially if the issue began after a driver or system change.
Why the Wi‑Fi icon can show connected even without internet
Wi‑Fi connection and internet access are two separate things. Your laptop can successfully connect to the wireless router while the router itself has no working internet connection. DNS problems can also allow a network connection while websites fail to load.
Try another website before changing settings
If only one website or app is failing, the network may be fine. Microsoft notes that when Wi‑Fi appears connected, a problem can still be limited to a specific site, app or firewall rule.
When to use Network Reset
Use Network Reset last. Microsoft says it removes installed network adapters and their settings, then reinstalls the adapters after restart using default settings.
That can fix broken networking configurations, but it can also mean setting up VPN clients or virtual network adapters again. On Windows 11, the option is under Settings → Network & internet → Advanced network settings → Network reset.
What if Wi‑Fi works after restarting the router but fails again?
If every device loses internet repeatedly, investigate the router, modem or ISP. If only one Windows PC keeps failing, update or reinstall the Wi‑Fi adapter driver from your laptop or motherboard manufacturer.
What if the internet works through mobile hotspot but not your home Wi‑Fi?
That strongly points toward the home router/network rather than Windows itself. Forgetting and reconnecting to the home network, rebooting the router and checking router DNS or ISP status are the next useful steps.
Once one step appears to work, stop and reproduce the original problem under the same conditions. If it stays fixed, leave unrelated settings alone. That preserves a clear cause-and-effect trail and avoids creating a second problem while trying to solve the first.
If the symptom returns, write down the trigger, time, network, battery level, connected accessories and app in use. Those details make the next diagnostic step much more precise and are useful if you eventually need manufacturer or developer support.
Frequently asked questions
Why does Windows 11 say connected but no internet?
The PC may be connected to Wi‑Fi while the router lacks internet access, or Windows networking, DNS, VPN or firewall settings may be interfering.
What should I try first?
Test another device on the same Wi‑Fi. Then use the Windows network troubleshooter and restart the router and PC.
Will Network Reset remove settings?
Yes. Microsoft says it removes and reinstalls network adapters and resets their settings.
Can a VPN cause this?
Yes. Disconnect the VPN temporarily to test whether it is affecting routing or DNS.