How to Reset Network Settings in Windows 11 (Fix Wi-Fi & Internet Issues)

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Having trouble with your Wi-Fi or internet connection on Windows 11? Slow speeds, frequent disconnections, or inability to connect to networks are common issues that can often be fixed by resetting your network settings. This simple troubleshooting step restores your network configurations to default, resolving most connectivity problems without losing personal data.

In this guide, I'll show you how to reset network settings in Windows 11 step by step. I'll also cover when to use this method, what it resets (and what it doesn't), and how to fix common issues if the reset doesn't work.

When to Reset Network Settings in Windows 11

Resetting network settings is a go-to fix for these common problems:
  • Wi-Fi won't connect or keeps dropping
  • Internet is slow or unresponsive
  • Can't detect nearby Wi-Fi networks
  • Ethernet connection not working
  • VPN or network adapter issues
  • Network settings corrupted after a Windows update

What Does Resetting Network Settings Do?

Resetting network settings restores the following to default:
  • Wi-Fi networks (you'll need to re-enter Wi-Fi passwords)
  • Network adapters (Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth)
  • TCP/IP settings (network protocol configurations)
  • DNS settings (domain name system)
  • VPN connections (you'll need to reconfigure VPNs)
What it doesn't do: It won't delete your personal files, apps, or other system settings. Your Windows account and data remain safe.

How to Reset Network Settings in Windows 11 (Recommended Method)

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This is the easiest and most reliable way to reset your network settings. It works for all Windows 11 versions and devices (laptops, desktops, tablets).
  1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
  2. On the left menu, click Network & internet.
  3. Scroll down to the bottom of the main panel on the right and click Advanced network settings.
  4. In the new window, find and click Network reset (under the "More settings" section).
  5. A pop-up window will appear, explaining what the reset does. Click Reset now.
  6. Another confirmation window will pop up. Click Yes to start the reset.
  7. Your PC will restart automatically to apply the changes. Wait for the restart to complete.
After restarting, you'll need to re-connect to your Wi-Fi network by entering the password. Your internet connection should now work properly.

Alternative Method: Reset Network Settings via Command Prompt

If you prefer using Command Prompt (for advanced users), follow these steps:
  1. Press Win + S to open the search bar.
  2. Type Command Prompt, right-click the result, and select Run as administrator.
  3. Click Yes if prompted for permission.
  4. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
    • netsh winsock reset
    • netsh int ip reset
    • ipconfig /release
    • ipconfig /renew
    • ipconfig /flushdns
  5. After running all commands, restart your PC to apply the changes.
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This method achieves the same result as the Settings method but uses command-line tools.

What to Do After Resetting Network Settings

  1. Re-connect to your Wi-Fi network: Click the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar, select your network, and enter the password.
  2. Reconfigure VPNs (if you use them): Open your VPN app and set up the connection again.
  3. Test your internet connection: Open a browser and visit a website to confirm it works.

If Network Reset Doesn't Fix the Issue

If you still have internet or Wi-Fi problems after resetting, try these fixes:
  • Restart your router/modem: Unplug it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in and wait for it to reconnect.
  • Update network adapter drivers: Go to Device Manager > Network adapters, right-click your adapter, and select Update driver.
  • Check for Windows updates: Go to Settings > Windows Update and install any available updates.
  • Disable and re-enable your network adapter: In Device Manager > Network adapters, right-click your adapter, select Disable device, then right-click again and select Enable device.
  • Check if the issue is with your internet service provider (ISP): Contact your ISP to see if there's an outage in your area.

Final Tips for Network Troubleshooting

  • Always try restarting your PC first before resetting network settings—it fixes many minor issues.
  • Write down your Wi-Fi password before resetting, so you don't forget it.
  • Resetting network settings is a safe troubleshooting step—don't hesitate to use it for persistent connectivity issues.
  • Keep your network adapter drivers updated to avoid future problems.

Conclusion

Resetting network settings in Windows 11 is a simple and effective way to fix most Wi-Fi and internet issues. It restores default network configurations without losing personal data, making it a go-to troubleshooting step for beginners and advanced users alike.
By following the steps in this guide, you can reset your network settings in minutes and get back online quickly. If the reset doesn't work, the additional fixes will help you resolve more persistent issues.

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