How To Fix Windows Can’t Connect To This Network Error?

If you’ve encountered the dreaded “Windows can’t connect to this network” error, you’re not alone. This issue is relatively common in Windows operating systems and can be triggered by a variety of factors ranging from driver issues to incorrect network configurations. When your computer fails to connect to a network, it can hinder your productivity, disrupt software updates, and prevent access to cloud services. Fortunately, there are several proven methods to resolve this problem effectively.

1. Restart Your Computer and Router

It might sound basic, but restarting your devices can resolve many connectivity problems.

• Restart your PC: A quick reboot can reload essential services and reset the network adapter.
• Restart your router: Power off your router for at least 30 seconds, then power it back on. This can fix temporary internet connection issues.

2. Forget and Reconnect to the Network

Removing and re-adding the wireless network profile can help reset any incorrect configurations.

1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.
2. Click on Manage known networks.
3. Select the network you’re trying to connect to and click Forget.
4. Reconnect to the network by entering the correct password.

3. Update Network Drivers

An outdated or corrupt network driver can prevent Windows from establishing a connection.

1. Right-click the Start menu and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the Network adapters section.
3. Right-click your wireless adapter and choose Update driver.
4. Select Search automatically for drivers.

If Windows doesn’t find an update, you can check your adapter manufacturer’s website for the latest version.

4. Disable and Re-enable the Network Adapter

This forces Windows to reset your adapter, often resolving temporary glitches.

1. Open Control Panel, then go to Network and Sharing Center.
2. Click Change adapter settings on the left.
3. Right-click your wireless adapter and select Disable.
4. Wait a few seconds, then right-click again and choose Enable.

5. Reset TCP/IP Stack

Corrupted IP settings can prevent proper communication with network devices.

To reset the TCP/IP stack:

1. Type cmd in the Windows search bar, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
2. Enter the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
• netsh int ip reset
• ipconfig /release
• ipconfig /renew
• ipconfig /flushdns
3. Restart your computer once all commands are executed.

6. Check for Conflicting Software

Certain antivirus programs or firewall settings can block network access.

Try the following:

• Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall.
• If the network connects successfully, consider updating or adjusting the security software settings.

Note: Only disable security software temporarily and with caution. Always re-enable it after completing your test.

7. Manually Configure Network Settings

Incorrect IP address or DNS settings might be the culprit.

1. Navigate to Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings.
2. Right-click your connection and select Properties.
3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), then click Properties.
4. Choose Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically.
5. Click OK to save changes and restart your computer.

8. Network Troubleshooter

Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix common problems.

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
2. Select Internet Connections and then Run the troubleshooter.
3. Follow on-screen instructions to apply any recommended fixes.

Conclusion

Encountering a network error like “Windows can’t connect to this network” can be frustrating, but it’s usually solvable using one of the steps outlined above. Each solution addresses a potential root cause, from minor misconfigurations to system-level issues. By applying these fixes one at a time, you can safely isolate and resolve the problem, restoring your internet connection and ensuring smoother system performance.

For persistent issues that remain unresolved, it may be worth checking for hardware problems or contacting your internet service provider for assistance.