How to Fix the "Can't Connect to This Network" Error in Windows 11

Patrick_Yu · 10:09AM

The "Can't Connect to This Network" error is a frustrating issue faced by many Windows 11 users when attempting to connect to Wi-Fi. This error can arise from various sources, including network settings, hardware problems, or software conflicts. Luckily, there are several straightforward methods you can use to resolve this issue and get back online.

Causes of the "Can't Connect to This Network" error

There are several common reasons why you may encounter this error:

Network Configuration Issues: Misconfigured IP settings or DNS servers, as well as disabled DHCP, can prevent your device from connecting to a network.
Hardware Problems: A faulty modem, router, or network adapter can disrupt your connection.
ISP-Related Issues: Internet service provider outages or high traffic can block access to the internet, even if your devices are functioning properly.
Software Conflicts: Outdated network drivers, firewalls, VPNs, or antivirus programs can interfere with your connection.
Signal Interference: Weak signals or interference from nearby devices can cause connectivity issues, especially on Wi-Fi networks.

While these causes are varied, they all lead to the same frustrating result: a network connection failure. Fortunately, a structured troubleshooting approach can resolve most of these issues.

How to fix the "Can't Connect to This Network" error

To resolve this issue, follow these steps, starting with the basic troubleshooting techniques and moving to more advanced solutions if necessary.

1. Basic Troubleshooting Steps

Forget and Reconnect to the Network
1. Open Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi > Manage known networks.
2. Select the problematic network and click Forget. Then, reconnect by selecting the network again and entering the password.
Restart Your Router and Modem
1. Unplug your router and modem for 30 seconds, then plug them back in. Allow a few minutes for them to fully reboot, and try reconnecting.
Restart Your Computer
1. Simply restarting your computer can fix temporary issues that cause connection problems. After rebooting, attempt to connect to the network again.
Disable and Re-enable the Network Adapter
1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the Network adapters section, right-click your Wi-Fi adapter, and select Disable device. Wait a few seconds, then right-click it again and select Enable.
Run the Network Troubleshooter
1. Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
2. Under Most frequent, select Network and Internet and click Run.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to diagnose and fix any network errors.

2. Advanced Troubleshooting Steps

If the basic steps don’t resolve the issue, try these advanced solutions.

Update Your Network Adapter Driver
1. Right-click the Start button and choose Device Manager.
2. Expand Network adapters, right-click your Wi-Fi adapter, and select Update driver.
3. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software. If an update is available, install it and restart your computer.
Change DNS Settings
1. Go to Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi > Properties for your network.
2. Scroll down to IP Settings, click Edit, and switch to Manual. Turn on IPv4 and set the following DNS addresses:
  1. Preferred DNS: 8.8.8.8
  2. Alternate DNS: 8.8.4.4
3. Save the changes and restart your connection.
Reset Network Settings
1. Go to Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings.
2. Click Network reset, then select Reset now. This will reset all network-related settings and may resolve persistent connectivity issues.
Check for Windows Updates
1. Go to Settings > Windows Update and click Check for updates. Install any pending updates, as they may include fixes for network-related bugs.
Disable Antivirus or VPN Temporarily
1. Some antivirus programs or VPNs can interfere with your network connection. Temporarily disable them to see if this resolves the issue. Don’t forget to re-enable your security software afterward.

3. Wi-Fi Specific Troubleshooting

If you're specifically dealing with Wi-Fi connectivity problems, these additional steps might help:

Move Closer to the Router
1. If you're far from the router, moving closer can improve signal strength and resolve weak connection issues.
Switch Wi-Fi Frequency Bands
1. If your router supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, try switching between them. The 2.4GHz band has a longer range but slower speeds, while the 5GHz band is faster but has a shorter range.
Reset the Wi-Fi Adapter Using Command Prompt (Run as Administrator)
1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and enter the following commands:
  1. netsh winsock reset
  2. netsh int ip reset
  3. ipconfig /release
  4. ipconfig /renew
  5. ipconfig /flushdns
2. After running these commands, restart your computer and attempt to reconnect to the Wi-Fi network.

When to seek professional help

If you've tried all of the above steps and still can't resolve the issue, it might be time to seek professional help. The problem could be related to a hardware defect, a more complex network configuration issue, or your internet service provider.

Contact Your ISP

If multiple devices are unable to connect to the network, or if other devices are also experiencing connectivity issues, the problem could lie with your internet service provider (ISP). Contact your ISP for support and ask if there are any outages or issues affecting your area.

Consult a Technician

If the issue appears to be hardware-related (e.g., a faulty router, network adapter, or modem), consulting a technician might be necessary. A professional can help identify and resolve complex network problems that require specialized knowledge.

Acer Care Extended Service Plans

For Acer device users, it may be worthwhile to consider Acer Care Extended Service Plans. These plans offer extended coverage for your Acer products, providing peace of mind and access to expert support when you need it most. With extended service, you can ensure your Acer devices remain in top shape, and receive help with any network or hardware-related issues you may encounter.