If your Wi-Fi or Ethernet suddenly stops working on Windows 11 — maybe your PC won’t connect to the internet, or you’re seeing “No Internet Access” — don’t panic. One of the most effective troubleshooting solutions is to reset your network adapter.
This complete guide walks you through how to reset your network adapter in Windows 11, step by step, using different methods — including the Settings app, Command Prompt, and PowerShell.
🌐 What Does Resetting the Network Adapter Do?
Resetting your network adapter essentially gives your PC’s networking components a fresh start. It removes and reinstalls all your network adapters and resets key networking components like:
- TCP/IP stack
- Winsock settings
- Proxy configurations
- Custom DNS or IP settings
This process can resolve most network-related issues such as:
- Limited or no internet access
- Wi-Fi keeps disconnecting
- Ethernet not working
- IP configuration errors
⚠️ Note: Resetting will remove saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords, VPN connections, and custom settings — so make sure to back up important configurations.
🧠 Before You Begin
Before performing a reset, try these quick fixes:
- Restart your router and PC.
- Run the built-in Network Troubleshooter (
Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Network Adapter). - Ensure Airplane Mode is off.
If these don’t work, proceed to the full reset.
🪜 Method 1: Reset Network Adapter via Settings
This is the easiest and safest method for most users.
Steps:
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Network & Internet.
- Scroll down and click Advanced network settings.
- Under More settings, select Network reset.
- Click the Reset now button.
- Confirm by selecting Yes when prompted.
- Wait for your PC to restart automatically.
After restarting, reconnect to your Wi-Fi network or plug in your Ethernet cable.
⚙️ Method 2: Reset Network Adapter Using Command Prompt
If the Settings app doesn’t fix your issue, you can manually reset networking components through Command Prompt (Admin).
Steps:
- Press Windows + S, type cmd, then right-click Command Prompt → select Run as administrator.
- Type and execute the following commands one by one:
netsh winsock reset netsh int ip reset ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew ipconfig /flushdns - Once done, restart your PC.
These commands refresh your IP configuration and networking stack, often resolving stubborn connection issues.
🧰 Method 3: Reset Network Adapter Using PowerShell
If you prefer using PowerShell, here’s how:
Steps:
- Press Windows + X → select Windows Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin).
- Type the following command and press Enter:
Get-NetAdapter | Restart-NetAdapter - If that doesn’t help, reset all adapters completely with:
Remove-NetIPAddress -InterfaceAlias "*" -Confirm:$false Restart-Computer
This command removes all IP addresses and restarts the system for a full reset.
🧩 Method 4: Uninstall and Reinstall Network Adapter Drivers
If your adapter driver is corrupted, resetting alone won’t help — you’ll need to reinstall it.
Steps:
- Press Windows + X → select Device Manager.
- Expand the Network adapters section.
- Right-click your adapter (e.g., Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201) → select Uninstall device.
- Confirm the action.
- Restart your PC — Windows will automatically reinstall the driver.
💡 Tip: If Windows doesn’t reinstall the driver, visit your manufacturer’s website (like Intel or Realtek) to download and install the latest one manually.
🔒 Method 5: Use the Windows Network Troubleshooter
Sometimes, Windows can automatically detect and fix the problem.
Steps:
- Press Windows + I → open Settings.
- Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Next to Network Adapter, click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
This tool can identify and automatically fix many connectivity issues.
📶 Bonus Tip: Reset TCP/IP Stack Using NetShell
If you’re only facing IP conflicts or slow network speed, a TCP/IP reset may be enough.
Steps:
- Open Command Prompt (Admin).
- Type the following command and press Enter:
netsh int ip reset c:\resetlog.txt - Restart your PC to apply the changes.
🧾 What to Do After Resetting
Once your PC restarts:
- Reconnect to your Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
- Re-enter your Wi-Fi password.
- Reconfigure any VPN or proxy settings.
- Reinstall or update network drivers if needed.
You should now have a stable internet connection again.
⚠️ Troubleshooting Tips If It Still Doesn’t Work
If resetting didn’t solve your issue:
- Update your network drivers via Device Manager or the manufacturer’s site.
- Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus (for testing).
- Check if your router firmware is up to date.
- Try connecting another device to ensure the issue isn’t with your network.
- Contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) if none of the above works.
🧩 Common Causes of Network Adapter Problems
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Outdated drivers | Older drivers may cause connectivity errors. |
| Misconfigured settings | Incorrect IP, DNS, or proxy setups can block connections. |
| VPN conflicts | Some VPNs alter network routes or disable adapters. |
| Malware infection | Malicious software can interfere with network components. |
| Windows updates | Occasionally, updates break network functionality. |
🧠 Quick Recap: How to Reset Network Adapter in Windows 11
| Method | Tool Used | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Settings App | Beginner-friendly | ⭐ |
| Command Prompt | Advanced users | ⭐⭐ |
| PowerShell | IT/Admin use | ⭐⭐ |
| Device Manager | Driver-level fix | ⭐⭐⭐ |
🏁 Conclusion
Resetting your network adapter in Windows 11 is one of the most effective ways to fix internet issues — whether it’s Wi-Fi not connecting, Ethernet dropping, or a faulty IP configuration.
You can do this easily from the Settings app, or dive deeper using Command Prompt, PowerShell, or Device Manager if you’re comfortable with advanced tools.
Once your network is reset, you’ll likely notice smoother and more reliable connectivity.
❓ FAQs About Resetting Network Adapters in Windows 11
1. Will resetting my network adapter delete my saved Wi-Fi passwords?
Yes. All saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords will be removed — you’ll need to reconnect manually.
2. Is resetting my network adapter safe?
Absolutely. It only reinstalls your network components and doesn’t harm your personal files.
3. How long does it take to reset the adapter?
Usually about 2–5 minutes, including the restart.
4. Can I reset only the Wi-Fi adapter, not Ethernet?
Yes — use Device Manager to disable and re-enable the Wi-Fi adapter specifically.
5. What if the network adapter still doesn’t work after resetting?
Try updating or reinstalling drivers, or use a USB Wi-Fi adapter as a temporary workaround.
🧾 Summary: Key Takeaways
- Resetting your network adapter can fix most internet issues.
- Use Settings for a quick reset, or Command Prompt for deeper repairs.
- Reinstall drivers if the adapter doesn’t come back automatically.
- Back up Wi-Fi credentials and VPN settings beforehand.
- Always restart your PC after making network changes.
By following these methods, you can restore your connection and get back online in minutes.