Connecting your Windows PC to a Wi-Fi network should be simple. But sometimes, things break. If you’re seeing the error “Can’t connect to this network,” this article will guide you through every possible fix — from the basics to advanced tools — with clear steps and real solutions that work for Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Why Wi-Fi Stops Connecting on Windows Devices?
Your system may fail to connect to a wireless network for several reasons. Understanding what might be wrong helps you fix it faster.
- The wireless driver might be outdated or broken
- Your system’s IP settings could be misconfigured
- Antivirus or firewall software may block the network
- The router might use a frequency or security setting not supported by your adapter
- A recent Windows update could have changed network behavior
- The saved network profile may no longer match the router’s settings
These issues often involve elements like the network adapter, SSID, DHCP settings, security protocols, and firmware compatibility.
How to Fix “Can’t Connect to This Network” on Windows 10 and 11?
If your Windows device refuses to join a Wi-Fi network, the problem could be simple—or something deeper. This section covers proven solutions starting from basic fixes to more technical steps. Follow each fix in order until your device connects successfully.
1. Quick Fixes to Try First
Start with easy actions. Many times, these basic steps are enough:
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Restart your router and PC.
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Turn Wi-Fi off and back on from the taskbar.
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Forget the network and reconnect:
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Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi > Manage known networks.
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Try another Wi-Fi network or a mobile hotspot.
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Disable and re-enable the adapter from Device Manager.
2. Use the Windows Network Troubleshooter
Windows includes a tool to find and solve connection problems:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status.
- Click “Network Troubleshooter.”
- Follow the instructions provided.
This tool checks adapter settings, IP status, and auto-repair options for common issues.
3. Run Command Line Fixes
Command Prompt can help reset key network features. Open it as an administrator and run these commands:
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns
Restart your PC afterward. These commands refresh the TCP/IP stack, release your current IP, and clear any DNS cache.
4. Update or Reinstall the Wi-Fi Driver
A broken or outdated wireless driver is often the reason for network errors.
- Press Win + X and open Device Manager.
- Expand “Network adapters.”
- Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter (e.g., Intel, Realtek, Qualcomm).
- Select “Update driver” or “Uninstall device.”
After uninstalling, restart your PC. Windows will reinstall the driver automatically. You can also download the latest driver from the manufacturer’s website.
5. Reset Network Settings to Factory Defaults
Resetting all network settings can help when nothing else works.
Follow these Steps:
- Open Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings.
- Click on “Network reset.”
- Restart your PC when prompted.
This will remove all saved networks and restore default IP, firewall, and DNS settings.
6. Check Your Router and Security Settings
Make sure your router is compatible with your system and not blocking it:
- SSID broadcast must be enabled.
- Security type should be set to WPA2 or WPA3, depending on device support.
- Disable MAC address filtering temporarily.
- If your router has both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, try switching to the other one.
- Check and update your router firmware from the manufacturer’s web portal.
These settings affect how your computer sees and joins the network.
7. Safe Mode with Networking
Booting into Safe Mode helps detect if third-party software is blocking the connection.
How to enter:
- Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
- Go to the Boot tab, check “Safe boot,” and enable “Network.”
- Restart your PC.
In Safe Mode, if your Wi-Fi connects, then software like VPNs, antivirus tools, or firewall programs may be interfering during normal operation.
Advanced Fixes for Persistent Issues
Try these if the problem still exists:
- Manually assign a static IP address: By going to Network Settings, opening Adapter options, selecting Properties, then choosing IPv4 and entering a fixed IP.
- Turn off IPv6: Some routers experience problems with dual-stack mode that causes connection failures.
- Disable power saving for your network adapter: By opening Device Manager, right-clicking the adapter, going to Properties, and unchecking power management options.
- Use a USB Wi-Fi dongle: to test whether the built-in wireless card is causing the issue.
Final Thoughts
This error is annoying but rarely permanent. Most cases are solved by resetting your settings, updating the adapter, or clearing cached network data. Keeping your drivers updated and Windows patched helps prevent future issues.
If your network still won’t connect, try using a different device on the same Wi-Fi. That will tell you whether the problem is with your PC or the router.