WiFi Connected But No Internet: 7 Real Fixes That Work

Your device shows “Connected” to WiFi but you can’t browse the internet? This is one of the most frustrating connectivity issues, but it’s usually fixable at home. The problem typically lies with DNS settings, IP conflicts, or router configuration rather than your device.

Why This Happens

Understanding the cause helps choose the right fix:

• DNS server problems (40% of cases)
• IP address conflicts (25% of cases)
• Router configuration issues (20% of cases)
• ISP connectivity problems (10% of cases)
• Device network settings (5% of cases)

Quick Diagnosis

Before starting fixes, determine if the problem affects:

• Single device: Device-specific issue
• All devices: Router or ISP problem
• Some websites only: DNS issue

Step-by-Step Fixes

Step 1: Restart Your Router

Most effective first step:

1. Unplug router power cable
2. Wait 30 seconds
3. Plug power back in
4. Wait 2-3 minutes for full startup
5. Test internet connection

Success rate: 35% - Fixes temporary router glitches.

Step 2: Forget and Reconnect WiFi

Android:

1. Settings > WiFi
2. Tap your network name
3. Select Forget
4. Reconnect with password

iPhone:

1. Settings > WiFi
2. Tap (i) next to network
3. Forget This Network
4. Reconnect with password

Windows:

1. Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi
2. Manage known networks
3. Select network > Forget
4. Reconnect

Step 3: Change DNS Servers

Often the most effective fix:

Android:

1. Settings > WiFi
2. Long-press your network
3. Modify Network > Advanced
4. Change DNS to:
   • DNS 1: 8.8.8.8
   • DNS 2: 8.8.4.4
5. Save and reconnect

iPhone:

1. Settings > WiFi
2. Tap (i) next to network
3. Configure DNS > Manual
4. Add: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
5. Save

Windows:

1. Control Panel > Network Connections
2. Right-click WiFi > Properties
3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4
4. Use the following DNS servers:
   • Preferred: 8.8.8.8
   • Alternate: 8.8.4.4

Step 4: Reset Network Settings

Android:

1. Settings > General Management
2. Reset > Reset Network Settings
3. Confirm and restart
4. Reconnect to WiFi

iPhone:

1. Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone
2. Reset > Reset Network Settings
3. Enter passcode and confirm
4. Reconnect to WiFi

Step 5: Check Router Admin Panel

Access your router settings:

1. Find router IP (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1)
2. Open web browser and enter IP
3. Login (check router label for credentials)
4. Check internet status in dashboard
5. Restart from admin panel if needed

Step 6: Release and Renew IP Address

Windows:

1. Press Win + R
2. Type cmd and press Enter
3. Type: ipconfig /release
4. Type: ipconfig /renew
5. Type: ipconfig /flushdns

Mac:

1. System Preferences > Network
2. Select WiFi > Advanced
3. TCP/IP tab > Renew DHCP Lease

Step 7: Check ISP Status

If all devices affected:

1. Use mobile data to check ISP website
2. Call ISP customer service
3. Ask neighbors if they have issues
4. Check social media for outage reports

Advanced Troubleshooting

Check Specific Settings

Router QoS Settings:

• Disable bandwidth limiting
• Check if your device is blocked
• Reset QoS to default

Firewall Issues:

• Temporarily disable device firewall
• Check router firewall settings
• Whitelist your device MAC address

IP Address Conflicts:

• Check if multiple devices have same IP
• Set static IP for your device
• Expand DHCP range in router

Test Different Connections

1. Try ethernet cable (if possible)
2. Connect to mobile hotspot
3. Test different WiFi network
4. Use different device on same network

Router-Specific Solutions

TP-Link Routers

1. Advanced > System Tools > Reboot
2. Check WAN connection status
3. Update firmware if available

Netgear Routers

1. Administration > Router Status
2. Check internet connection
3. Try different DNS in router settings

Linksys Routers

1. Smart WiFi Tools > Status
2. Troubleshooting > Restart
3. Check for firmware updates

When to Call ISP

Contact your internet provider if:

• All devices affected
• Router shows no internet connection
• Problem persists after router restart
• Neighbors report similar issues
• Ethernet connection also fails

Prevention Tips

Regular maintenance:

• Restart router weekly
• Keep firmware updated
• Monitor connected devices
• Use quality DNS servers

Optimal setup:

• Place router in central location
• Avoid interference sources
• Use 5GHz band when possible
• Limit connected devices

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does this happen more often lately? A: More devices connecting to home networks, older routers struggling with load, and ISP infrastructure issues.

Q: Is it safe to change DNS servers? A: Yes, using public DNS like Google (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) is safe and often faster.

Q: Should I buy a new router? A: If your router is over 5 years old and problems persist, upgrading can solve many connectivity issues.

Q: Can too many devices cause this problem? A: Yes, older routers can struggle with many connected devices. Try disconnecting unused devices.

Q: Why does restarting the router fix it temporarily? A: Routers can develop memory leaks or temporary configuration issues that clearing fixes.

Conclusion

“WiFi connected but no internet” is usually caused by DNS issues or router glitches. The router restart (Step 1) and DNS change (Step 3) fix most cases.

If the problem affects all devices, it’s likely a router or ISP issue. If only one device is affected, focus on device-specific solutions like network reset.

Remember that older routers (5+ years) may struggle with modern internet demands and multiple connected devices. Sometimes upgrading your router is the permanent solution.