Windows Ethernet connection not working? Try these fixes

In most cases, an Ethernet connection will provide lower latency and faster internet speeds than a Wi-Fi connection. However, instances where an Ethernet connection refuses to work are quite common. If you're experiencing this problem, help is available. This guide explains what to do if your Windows Ethernet connection isn't working properly.

1. Check the Ethernet port and cable.

A damaged or counterfeit cable is often the cause of Ethernet connection problems. The first thing you should do is check your Ethernet cable.

Use a spare cable to connect your computer to the router. If it can connect to the internet, the original Ethernet cable is likely to blame. Alternatively, try connecting another computer to the router using the old cable. If the problem persists, you may need to purchase or borrow a new Ethernet cable.

If your computer can't connect to your router using the spare Ethernet cable, the Ethernet port on your computer may be faulty. The same applies if you can connect another computer using the original Ethernet cable.

A surefire way to know if your Ethernet port is damaged is to have your computer checked by a certified technician.

2. Restart your modem and router.

Resetting your modem and router will create a new connection between your router and your ISP. This may be what you need to do to resolve your Ethernet connection issue.

Turn off the power to your router and modem. If your modem has a battery, remove it. Then, unplug the router and modem from the power source. Let the networking devices sit idle for 30 to 45 seconds.

If you removed the battery from your modem, replace it. Connect the router and modem to a power source and turn on the power. Once the modem and router are fully powered on, connect the Ethernet cable to your computer. Hopefully, the connection issue will go away.

3. Make sure the Ethernet device is enabled.

1. Click on Windows + X and click Network communications.
2. Scroll down in the right sidebar and click on Advanced Network Settings.
   
3. Click "Enable" next to "Ethernet" In the right sidebar if disabled.
   

Good to know: Preventing certain applications from accessing the Internet may result in: To make your experience more secure and productive, learn how to do this on a Windows PC.

4. Troubleshoot Internet connection and network adapter

The built-in Windows troubleshooter can fix many common problems on your computer. You'll need to connect an Ethernet cable to troubleshoot your internet connection.

1. Click on Windows + I to open settings.
2. Click “System -> Troubleshooting.”
   
3. Go to Other troubleshooting tools.
   
4. Click the button "employment" Next to the cucumber Internet communications.
   
5. If the troubleshooter identifies a problem, it will fix it. Once it's done, check if your Ethernet connection is working.
   
6. If troubleshooting your Internet connection doesn't help, you may need to troubleshoot your Ethernet network adapter. To do this, refer to the list. Other troubleshooters Scroll down until you reach network adapter.
   
7. Locate "Ethernet" and click "the following".
   
8. To troubleshoot errors in Windows 10, go to Settings -> Update & Security -> Troubleshoot and select Additional troubleshooters In the right sidebar. You'll find both of the above options here.

5. Reset the Ethernet adapter

Disabling and enabling the Ethernet adapter resets the computer's Ethernet connection. Follow the instructions below to see if this resolves the issue.

1. Open an app Settings.
2. tap on Network & Internet -> Advanced network settings.
   
3. Disable Ethernet in the right sidebar. After a few minutes, enable it again. Check if your Ethernet connection is working.
   

6. Reset the network

Resetting your network to factory settings is another option you may want to try by following the steps below.

1. Go to Advanced Network Settings As previously described.
2. Click the button Network reset.
   
3. tap on “Reset now” next to Network resetYour computer will restart. Check if the connection is working.
   

7. Check the Ethernet card driver.

An outdated or corrupted Ethernet adapter driver may also cause the issue, so make sure you have the latest driver for your Ethernet adapter installed.

1. Click on Windows + X and click "Device Manager".
   
2. Double click Network adapters To expand, right-click the Ethernet card, and then click "Update Driver" from the context menu.
   
3. Select an option “Search automatically for drivers.”
   
4. If the latest driver is available, you will receive a notification.
   
5. Update the driver and restart your computer. The Ethernet connection issue should be fixed.

8. Make sure your router has the latest firmware.

Sometimes, outdated firmware can also cause Ethernet issues. Log into your router's firmware to see if you have the latest firmware.

The following process is specific to a D-Link router. Depending on your router manufacturer, the steps may vary.

1. Type in your router's IP address and enter your username and password to log in to the router's firmware. You can find your router's IP address on the back of the router.
2. Go to “System ← Firmware Update”.
3. Click "Check for updates" To see if an update is available.
   
4. For additional information on how to troubleshoot Router To fix your issue, check out our dedicated post on this issue.

Tip: Not satisfied with your router options? You can Switch to open source firmware instead.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1: Will my router and Ethernet cable affect my internet speed?
answer. Yes. An old router and Ethernet cable can slow down your internet speed, as older routers and cables may not be designed to handle the speeds your ISP currently offers. Different Ethernet cables are designed to support different internet speeds. For example, Cat-5 cables support speeds up to 100 Mbps, while Cat-8 offers speeds up to 25 Gbps. Make sure you consider your internet speed before installing. Buy Ethernet cables and routers.

Q2: How do I clean the Ethernet port?
answer. To clean the Ethernet port on your computer, first turn off the computer. You can use an air duster to clean the port. If the port is clogged with material, clean it with a toothpick in an in-and-out motion. Be very careful, however, as rotating the toothpick in the port can damage it. If the port on your computer is completely clogged with any thick material, you should have it cleaned by a professional.

Q3: I see the message “Network Cable Unplugged” in “Network Connections.” What should I do?
answer. Sometimes, when your device fails to connect to the Internet, you'll see an error that reads: "Network cable not connected." Fix it by enabling and disabling the network.