Ethernet Not Working on Windows 11 — How to Fix It

An ethernet cable that shows connected but provides no internet access is usually a driver, adapter or network configuration issue. Work through these fixes in order.

Common causes:

Outdated or corrupt network adapter driver
IP address conflict or DHCP not assigning an address
TCP/IP stack corruption
Ethernet port on the router has failed
Windows 11 network adapter settings misconfigured

Check the physical connection

Try a different cable and a different port on the router.

Run the Network troubleshooter

Right-click the network icon → Troubleshoot problems. Windows fixes most common adapter and DHCP issues.

Update the network adapter driver

Device Manager → Network adapters → right-click your ethernet adapter → Update driver. Also check the laptop manufacturer's website.

Reset TCP/IP stack

Command Prompt as admin: netsh int ip reset then netsh winsock reset then ipconfig /flushdns then ipconfig /release then ipconfig /renew. Restart after.

Assign a static IP address temporarily

Settings → Network & Internet → Ethernet → Edit IP → Manual → IPv4. Set IP 192.168.1.100, Subnet 255.255.255.0, Gateway 192.168.1.1, DNS 8.8.8.8.

Disable and re-enable the adapter

Device Manager → right-click ethernet adapter → Disable → wait 10 seconds → Enable.

When to call a technician

If the ethernet port appears in Device Manager with errors and no fix resolves it, the physical port may be damaged. TechFix Pro diagnoses and repairs on-site across Western Sydney.

Call 0434 358 263 WhatsApp

Frequently asked questions

Why does my ethernet say connected but no internet?

Usually a driver issue, IP configuration problem, or TCP/IP stack corruption. The netsh reset commands fix this in most cases.

How do I know if my ethernet port is broken?

If the port's indicator lights don't light up when connected to a working router, the port may be damaged.

Does Windows 11 have ethernet issues?

Some Windows 11 updates introduced network adapter driver regressions. Rolling back the network driver in Device Manager often resolves update-related issues.