How to fix the ‘Connected, No Internet’ issue

The “Connected, No Internet” problem prevents you from using online services even if you have Wi-Fi. Most may find it strange because a signal usually provides internet access. 

Internet service provider Infinium explains the “connected” part of the issue means you connected a modem and router. However, the latter does not have online access, hence “no internet.”

READ: How to find your Wi-Fi password

Fortunately, there are many simple fixes to this wireless connectivity problem. Prepare other devices that can connect to Wi-Fi like your phone and follow these steps.

Try the basic troubleshooting tips

Turn your modem and router off and unplug them for a few seconds. Then, plug them into a socket again and switch them on.

If the “Connected, No Internet” issue persists, restart your computer. Wait until your device boots fully to see whether online access returns. 

If you use a VPN, disable it. Sometimes, virtual private networks time out after prolonged use. Also, it could link to an overloaded server that cannot handle your connection. 

Try connecting to the Internet again. If the connectivity issue is still there, test other devices on your Wi-Fi network. 

This method will confirm whether the “Connected, No Internet” issue is a computer hardware problem. Then, you may test other troubleshooting methods.

Use more advanced fixes

Let’s say other devices can link with your Wi-Fi network but not your computer. Then, try the Windows Network Troubleshooter with these steps:

1. Open Settings in the Start menu.
2. Then, click System and then choose Troubleshoot.
3. Select Other troubleshooters.
4. Select Network and Internet.
5. Afterward, follow the on-screen instructions.

Test your internet connection to see if the “Connected, No Internet” issue reappears. If it does, MakeUseOf recommends checking your IP Options with these steps:

1. Open Settings and then head to Network & Internet.
2. Click Advanced network settings. 
3. Then, choose View additional properties.
4. Ensure IP assignment and DNS server assignment are Automatic (DHCP). If not, click the Edit button and select the Automatic option.

If other devices cannot access the Internet via your Wi-Fi network, it could be an ISP issue. Check your Internet Service Provider’s website and official social media pages for maintenance updates. 

Disable security software and update drivers

Your antivirus software might be protecting your computer “too well” by blocking online access. If you have a third-party security program, change its settings to allow internet connectivity. 

Otherwise, you may need to replace your antivirus with another. If the “Connected, No Internet” problem persists, you may have to update your computer’s drivers.

Computer manufacturer HP says drivers or device drivers are files that tell the hardware how to function by communicating with an operating system.

Third-party hardware like modems and routers also have drivers, so ensure those are updated. Link your computer to another Wi-Fi network, and then open Settings.

Click the Check for Updates button to start searching for the latest updates. Then, click the Download and Install button once it appears.