How to Fix Common Wi-Fi Connection Issues
A slow, dropping, or completely lost Wi-Fi connection can disrupt work, video calls, and daily online activities. Before calling your internet provider, follow these troubleshooting steps to fix common Wi-Fi issues quickly.
π Brought to you by Axio Networks, an award-winning managed IT provider in Scottsdale, Arizona. We help businesses and individuals maintain reliable and secure internet connections.
π Step 1: Restart Your Router and Modem
β Unplug your router and modem from the power outlet.
β Wait 30-60 seconds before plugging them back in.
β Allow 2-3 minutes for the devices to fully reboot.
β Try reconnecting to Wi-Fi.
β A simple restart fixes many temporary connection issues!
π Step 2: Check If the Internet is Down
β Try visiting a website on a different device (e.g., phone or tablet using mobile data).
β Check DownDetector to see if your ISP is having an outage.
β If your internet provider is down, you may have to wait for them to restore service.
β If the internet is working on other devices but not your computer, move to Step 3.
π Step 3: Ensure Wi-Fi is Enabled and Connected
β Click the Wi-Fi icon in the system tray (Windows) or menu bar (Mac).
β Ensure Airplane Mode is OFF (Windows: Win + A
| Mac: Command + Space
, then type “Airplane Mode”).
β If you see “No Internet” or “Connected, but no Internet”, continue to Step 4.
β Sometimes Wi-Fi gets disabled accidentallyβmake sure itβs turned on!
π Step 4: Move Closer to the Router and Reduce Interference
β Wi-Fi signals weaken through walls and floorsβmove closer to your router.
β Avoid interference from microwaves, Bluetooth devices, or cordless phones.
β If multiple devices are using Wi-Fi at once, limit background downloads or streaming.
β The closer you are to your router, the stronger your Wi-Fi signal will be!
π Step 5: Forget and Reconnect to the Wi-Fi Network
How to Forget and Reconnect to Wi-Fi:
- Click the Wi-Fi icon on your device.
- Select your network and click Forget.
- Restart your device.
- Reconnect by selecting the network and entering the password.
β This refreshes your connection and resolves authentication issues!
π Step 6: Switch Wi-Fi Bands (2.4 GHz vs. 5 GHz)
β Use 5 GHz for faster speeds if youβre near the router.
β Use 2.4 GHz for a stronger connection if youβre farther away.
How to Switch Bands:
- Open Wi-Fi settings and look for networks labeled “Wi-Fi Name – 5G” or “Wi-Fi Name – 2.4G”.
- Connect to the best option based on your distance from the router.
β 5 GHz is great for speed, while 2.4 GHz has better range!
π Step 7: Run the Windows Network Troubleshooter
How to Run the Troubleshooter (Windows 10/11):
- Click Start > Settings > Network & Internet.
- Select Status > Network Troubleshooter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to detect and fix issues.
β This built-in tool can automatically fix common connection problems!
π Step 8: Restart the Network Adapter (Windows)
- Press
Win + X
, then click Device Manager. - Expand Network Adapters.
- Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter and select Disable device.
- Wait 10 seconds, then right-click and select Enable device.
- Try reconnecting to Wi-Fi.
β Restarting the network adapter refreshes its connection to the router!
π Step 9: Update Your Wi-Fi Drivers (Windows & Mac)
Windows:
- Open Device Manager (
Win + X
> Device Manager). - Expand Network Adapters.
- Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
Mac:
β Wi-Fi drivers update automatically with macOS updates (Apple Menu > System Settings > Software Update
).
β Updating drivers fixes compatibility issues that may cause Wi-Fi problems!
π Step 10: Reset Your Router to Factory Settings
If all else fails, resetting your router may fix persistent issues.
How to Reset Your Router:
- Press and hold the reset button (usually on the back) for 10-30 seconds.
- Wait for the router to restart and restore to factory settings.
- Reconfigure your Wi-Fi settings using the default credentials printed on the router.
β Factory reset should be a last resort if other fixes donβt work!
π Step 11: Contact Your Internet Service Provider (ISP)
β If your internet is still slow or not working, call your ISPβs support line.
β Ask if they are experiencing network outages or maintenance issues.
β Request a replacement router/modem if yours is outdated.
β Your ISP can diagnose network issues on their end and suggest upgrades if needed!
π‘ Axio Networks Pro Tip
For business users, having a dual-band router, failover connection (mobile hotspot), and business-grade VPN ensures a stable and secure remote work experience. Need expert IT networking solutions? Axio Networks provides Wi-Fi optimization and cybersecurity servicesβcontact us today! π