Wi-Fi Connected but No Internet? Try These Checks in Order

If your device says it is connected to Wi-Fi but websites won't load, first determine whether the problem affects one device or everything in your home.

That one test can save a lot of unnecessary troubleshooting.

Check another device

Try the same Wi-Fi network from another phone, tablet, or computer.

If one device fails while everything else works, concentrate on that device.

If every device has lost internet access, the router, modem, or internet service becomes a more likely suspect.

Test more than one website or app

One broken website doesn't mean your internet is down.

Try several unrelated sites or services.

Turn Wi-Fi off and back on

On the affected device, switch Wi-Fi off, wait a few seconds, and turn it back on.

If that doesn't work, restart the device.

For Windows 11, Microsoft also provides a Network and Internet troubleshooter through the Get Help app.

Restart network equipment carefully

If every device is affected and you control the equipment, restart your modem/router according to its manufacturer's instructions.

Don't factory-reset it.

A normal restart and a factory reset are very different things. A factory reset can erase customized network settings and should not be an early troubleshooting step.

Check the router's status

Look for obvious status warnings using the router manufacturer's supported app or administration interface.

If the router appears connected locally but its internet/WAN connection is down, the problem may be upstream with the modem or internet provider.

Don't weaken security to fix connectivity

If an old device won't connect, don't solve the problem by switching the whole network to obsolete security.

Apple currently recommends WPA3 Personal where supported, or WPA2/WPA3 Transitional when compatibility with older devices is necessary.

When to call the provider

If all devices remain offline after a normal restart, cabling looks correct, and your provider reports an outage or the modem cannot establish service, further changes to your laptop probably won't help.

Contact the internet provider or equipment manufacturer rather than repeatedly resetting things.

Sources and Further Reading

Microsoft Support: Fix Wi-Fi connection issues in Windows — https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/experience/connectivity-networking/fix-wi-fi-connection-issues-in-windows

Apple Support: Recommended settings for Wi-Fi routers and access points — https://support.apple.com/en-la/102766