If you’re constantly seeing the “Can’t connect to this network” Wi-Fi error in Windows 10 or Windows 11, you’re not alone. This issue is usually caused by corrupted network settings, outdated drivers, power management conflicts, or IP configuration problems.
Below are simple and effective solutions, starting from basic fixes and moving to advanced troubleshooting steps.
Solution 1: Forget and Reconnect to the Wi-Fi Network
Sometimes the simplest fix works.
- Click the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar
- Select your network
- Click Forget
- Re-enter your Wi-Fi password and reconnect
This clears corrupted network credentials saved on your system.
Solution 2: Restart Your Router
If reconnecting doesn’t help:
- Turn off your router
- Wait 10–15 seconds
- Turn it back on and try connecting again
Temporary router issues can often cause this error.
Solution 3: Update the Wi-Fi Adapter Driver
Outdated or incompatible drivers are a common cause.
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager
- Expand Network adapters
- Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter
- Select Update driver
- Choose Search automatically for drivers
If no update is found, download the latest Wi-Fi driver from your device manufacturer’s website, install it, reboot your PC, and test again.
Solution 4: Perform a Network Reset
If the issue persists:
- Open Settings
- Go to Network & Internet
- Click Advanced network settings
- Select Network reset
This resets all network configurations, so you’ll need to reconnect to your Wi-Fi afterward.
Solution 5: Run the Network Troubleshooter
Windows includes a built-in diagnostic tool.
- Open Settings
- Go to System
- Click Troubleshoot
- Select Other troubleshooters
- Click Run next to Network Adapter
This can automatically detect and fix common network issues.
Solution 6: Disable Wi-Fi Power Saving
Power management settings can interrupt Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Open Device Manager
- Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter
- Select Properties
- Go to the Power Management tab
- Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power
- Click OK
Solution 7: Reset TCP/IP Stack Using Command Prompt
If none of the above methods work, reset your network stack.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator
- Run the following commands one by one:
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns
- Restart your computer
This fixes most IP-related network issues.
Additional Tips
- Try switching between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi bands
- Check for Windows Updates, as some updates include network fixes
- Test with a different network to rule out router or ISP issues
Conclusion
The “Can’t connect to this network” error in Windows 10 and Windows 11 is frustrating, but it’s almost always fixable. In most cases, updating drivers, resetting network settings, or disabling power management resolves the problem.
