How to Fix Ethernet Not Working in Windows 11

Wi-Fi connections have significantly improved, but nothing matches the speed and convenience of an ethernet connection. Many people still prefer Ethernet connections over Wi-Fi as they are much more stable and reliable. However, many users have reported that the Ethernet connection not working in Windows 11. If you are also facing this issue, keep reading this post to fix it.

This issue mainly occurs due to corrupted ethernet drivers on Windows 11. However, there are other issues to be blamed for this error. Following the troubleshooting methods mentioned below will help you quickly fix any network connectivity issues.

Also Read- Fix Windows 11 Setup Failed to Validate Product Key

How to Fix Ethernet Connection Not Working in Windows 11?

Below are some troubleshooting methods that may help you fix this issue:

Fix 1: Check the Ethernet Cable and Connection

Before getting started with complex methods, ensure the ethernet cable is plugged into the Ethernet port on your PC and the router. Do check if the cable isn’t damaged; in that case, use another cable to see if it works.

Fix 2: Check Network Status in Settings

Check network status in settings and make sure it says Connected. It will say Action Needed if there is an error. Here is how you can do it:

1. Open Settings > Network & Internet.
2. Check if it says Connected at the top.

Fix 3: Run Windows Network Troubleshooter

Running the network troubleshooter will identify and fix the issue automatically. Follow the steps given below to run the network troubleshooter:

1. Click on Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other Troubleshooters.
2. Scroll down and click on Run beside Network Adaptor.
3. Windows will now check for any issues with the Network Adaptor and fix them automatically.

Fix 4: Run Network Commands

Try running network commands to reset the TCP/IP stack manually. Then release and renew the IP address and flash the DNS client resolve cache. Follow these steps to do so:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type the following commands one by one and hit enter:

   netsh winsock reset
   netsh int ip reset
   ipconfig/release
   ipconfig/renew
   ipconfig/flushdns

Fix 5: Reinstall the Ethernet Network Adapter Drivers

You might face this issue if you use corrupt or outdated Ethernet network adapter drivers. Consider this method if your network connection stops working after a recent update. Here is how you can do it:

1. Right-click on Windows and open Device Manager.
2. Expand the Network Adapters section.
3. Right-click on the driver and select Uninstall device. Once done, restart your PC.
4. Open Device Manager again and check if the driver is installed or not.
5. If the driver isn’t installed, head to the Action tab in Device Manager and select Scan For Hardware Changes. Doing so will install the driver on your PC.

Fix 6: Perform a Network Reset

If you still have trouble connecting to an internet connection via Ethernet, perform a network reset on your device. Performing a network reset will remove all network adaptors and their settings. After the PC restarts, all the adaptors are installed again to their default settings. Here is how you can do it:

1. Click on Start > Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Network Reset.
2. Click on Reset Now and tap Yes to confirm on the network reset screen.
3. Your device will now restart automatically.
4. Once your device is rebooted, check if your PC connects to ethernet.

Fix 7: Power Cycle your Modem and Wireless Router

Power cycling your modem and wireless router will help build a new connection with your ISP. While doing so, everyone connected to the network will be disconnected temporarily. These steps can vary from device to device, but here are the general ones:

1. Unplug the power cable from the router and the modem.
2. Wait at least 30 seconds and plug the modem and router back in.
3. Wait for a few minutes for the modem and router to power on.
4. Try connecting again using the Ethernet connection on your PC.

Fix 8: Connect to a Wi-Fi Network

If your router supports Wi-Fi, try connecting to the Wi-Fi network instead. This will help get you connected to the internet and get to the source of the issue.

Fix 9: Reset Your PC

If none of the above-mentioned steps could help you, reset your PC. Sometimes the error is present in Windows core files that cannot be verified manually. Here is how you can factory reset your PC:

1. Open Settings > Windows Update > Advanced Options > Recovery.
2. Finally, click on Reset this PC and follow the instructions on the screen.

Wrapping Up

That’s all on how you can fix the Ethernet connection not working in Windows 11. We hope that the troubleshooting methods mentioned above were able to help you.

If you are still facing the issue, it might be a hardware problem, and to resolve it visit the nearest service center of your device OEM. If you have any suggestions or doubts, let us know in the comments section.