Ethernet Not Working on Windows 11: Troubleshooting Guide

Is your ethernet connection not working after upgrading to Windows 11? You’re not alone. Many users experience this issue. This guide will walk you through various troubleshooting steps to diagnose and resolve the problem, getting you back online quickly.

1. Basic Troubleshooting Steps

Before diving into more complex solutions, let’s cover the basic checks. These simple steps often resolve the most common issues.

  • Check the Ethernet Cable: Ensure the ethernet cable is securely plugged into both your computer and the router/modem. Try a different ethernet cable to rule out a faulty cable.
  • Restart Your Computer: A simple restart can often resolve temporary glitches and software conflicts.
  • Restart Your Router/Modem: Power cycle your router/modem by unplugging them from the power outlet, waiting 30 seconds, and plugging them back in.
  • Check Ethernet Port LEDs: Look at the ethernet port on your computer and router/modem. The presence of blinking LEDs usually indicates network activity. If there are no lights, it suggests a hardware problem or a disconnected cable.

2. Diagnose Network Issues with Windows Network Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in network troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix common network problems.

  • Access the Troubleshooter:
    1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
    2. Click on “System” then “Troubleshoot”.
    3. Select “Other troubleshooters”.
    4. Find “Network Adapter” and click “Run”.
  • Follow the On-Screen Instructions: The troubleshooter will scan for network issues and provide recommended solutions. Apply any fixes it suggests.

3. Check and Update Network Adapter Drivers

Outdated or corrupted network adapter drivers can cause ethernet connection problems. Updating to the latest drivers can often resolve these issues.

  • Open Device Manager:
    1. Right-click on the Start button and select “Device Manager”.
  • Locate Network Adapters:
    1. Expand the “Network adapters” category.
    2. Right-click on your ethernet adapter (it might be labeled with the manufacturer’s name, e.g., “Realtek PCIe GbE Family Controller”).
  • Update the Driver:
    1. Select “Update driver”.
    2. Choose “Search automatically for drivers”. Windows will search for and install the latest drivers.
  • If Windows Doesn’t Find a Driver:
    1. Visit the website of your computer manufacturer (e.g., Dell, HP, Lenovo) or the network adapter manufacturer (e.g., Intel, Realtek).
    2. Download the latest ethernet driver for your specific model and Windows 11 version.
    3. In Device Manager, right-click on the ethernet adapter and select “Update driver”.
    4. Choose “Browse my computer for drivers”.
    5. Navigate to the folder where you saved the downloaded driver and select it.

4. Reset Network Settings

Resetting your network settings can resolve configuration issues that might be preventing your ethernet connection from working.

  • Open Settings App: Press Windows key + I.
  • Navigate to Network & Internet: Click on “Network & internet”.
  • Advanced Network Settings: Select “Advanced network settings”.
  • Network Reset: Click on “Network reset”.
  • Confirm Reset: Read the warning and click “Reset now”. Your computer will restart, and your network settings will be reset to their defaults. You may need to re-enter your Wi-Fi passwords after the reset.

5. Check IP Configuration

An incorrect IP configuration can prevent your computer from connecting to the network.

  • Check if You’re Getting an IP Address Automatically:
    1. Open Settings app (Windows key + I).
    2. Click on “Network & internet”, then “Ethernet”.
    3. Make sure “IP assignment” is set to “Automatic (DHCP)”. If it’s not, change it to automatic.
  • Release and Renew IP Address (using Command Prompt):
    1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (search for “cmd”, right-click, and select “Run as administrator”).
    2. Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
      • ipconfig /release
      • ipconfig /renew
    3. Close Command Prompt and check if your ethernet connection is working.

6. Disable and Re-enable Ethernet Adapter

Sometimes, simply disabling and re-enabling the ethernet adapter can refresh the connection and resolve issues.

  • Open Device Manager: (Right-click Start button, select “Device Manager”).
  • Locate Network Adapters: Expand the “Network adapters” category.
  • Disable Ethernet Adapter: Right-click on your ethernet adapter and select “Disable device”.
  • Enable Ethernet Adapter: Wait a few seconds, then right-click on the ethernet adapter again and select “Enable device”.

7. Check Firewall Settings

Your firewall might be blocking your ethernet connection. Check your firewall settings to ensure that it’s not blocking network traffic.

  • Open Windows Defender Firewall:
    1. Search for “Windows Defender Firewall” in the Start menu and open it.
  • Allow an App or Feature:
    1. Click on “Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall”.
    2. Click on “Change settings”.
    3. Make sure that the “Network Discovery” and “File and Printer Sharing” are checked for both Private and Public networks. If not, check them and click “OK”.

8. Check for Conflicting Software

Certain software, such as VPNs or third-party firewalls, can interfere with your ethernet connection. Try temporarily disabling or uninstalling these programs to see if it resolves the issue.

9. Consider a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. This can help identify if a background program is causing the problem.

  • How to Perform a Clean Boot:
    1. Press Windows Key + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
    2. In the System Configuration window, go to the “Services” tab.
    3. Check “Hide all Microsoft services” and click “Disable all”.
    4. Go to the “Startup” tab and click “Open Task Manager”.
    5. In Task Manager, disable all startup items.
    6. Close Task Manager and click “Apply” then “OK” in the System Configuration window.
    7. Restart your computer. After the restart, check if the ethernet connection is working. If it is, you can gradually re-enable startup items and services to identify the culprit.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting ethernet connection problems on Windows 11 can be frustrating, but by following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue. Remember to start with the basic checks and work your way through the more advanced solutions. If you’ve tried everything and are still experiencing problems, consider contacting your internet service provider (ISP) or a computer technician for further assistance.