How to Fix a Windows Network Adapter

Troubleshoot and resolve Windows network adapter connectivity issues with these precise diagnostic and reset steps.

1. Run the built-in network troubleshooter. Open the Settings app by pressing Win + I. Navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters. Click the Run button adjacent to Network and Internet to allow Windows to automatically identify and resolve common configuration errors.
2. Flush the DNS and reset the network stack. Search for cmd in the Start menu, right-click it, and select Run as administrator. Execute the following commands in sequence, pressing Enter after each: netsh winsock reset, netsh int ip reset, ipconfig /release, ipconfig /renew, and ipconfig /flushdns. Restart your computer immediately after the final command.
3. Reinstall the network adapter driver. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager. Expand Network adapters, right-click your primary wireless or Ethernet controller, and select Uninstall device. Check the box labeled Attempt to remove the driver for this device and click Uninstall.
4. Scan for hardware changes. Within the Device Manager, click the Action menu at the top of the window. Select Scan for hardware changes to trigger a refresh of your hardware tree. Windows will detect the adapter and automatically reinstall the base driver.
5. Disable power management settings. In Device Manager, right-click your network adapter and select Properties. Navigate to the Power Management tab and uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power. Click OK to apply the changes.