Is your internet connection giving you trouble? Maybe your Wi-Fi keeps disconnecting, websites load slowly, or your computer won’t connect at all. Don’t panic — resetting your network settings in Windows 11 can often fix these issues. Think of it like hitting the reset button on a tangled mess of wires; everything gets straightened out, and you start fresh. In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you exactly how to reset network settings in Windows 11 and get your connection back to normal.
Why Would You Need to Reset Network Settings?
1. Fixing Wi-Fi Problems
When your PC won’t connect to Wi-Fi, a reset often clears the glitch.
2. Solving Slow Internet
Sometimes network configurations get cluttered and slow things down.
3. Fixing VPN and Proxy Issues
If you’ve changed VPNs or proxy servers, a reset wipes old configurations.
4. Restoring Factory Settings
Perfect if you want to start fresh with default network settings.
Things to Know Before Resetting
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Resetting will remove all saved Wi-Fi networks.
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Your VPN connections and custom settings will be deleted.
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You’ll need to re-enter Wi-Fi passwords after the reset.
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It’s safe and doesn’t harm your personal files.
How to Reset Network Settings in Windows 11
Method 1: Using Windows Settings
Step 1: Open Settings
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Press Windows + I.
Step 2: Go to Network & Internet
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In the left sidebar, click Network & Internet.
Step 3: Access Advanced Settings
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Scroll down → click Advanced network settings.
Step 4: Reset
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Under “More settings,” click Network reset.
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Select Reset now → Confirm.
Step 5: Restart Your PC
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Your computer will restart, and all network adapters will be reset.
Method 2: Using Command Prompt
Step 1: Open Command Prompt (Admin)
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Search cmd → Right-click → Run as administrator.
Step 2: Enter Commands One by One
Step 3: Restart PC
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This clears cached settings and restores defaults.
Method 3: Using PowerShell
Step 1: Open PowerShell (Admin)
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Search PowerShell → Run as administrator.
Step 2: Reset Network Stack
Step 3: Reboot PC
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Your adapters will be refreshed automatically.
What Happens After Resetting?
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All network adapters are reinstalled.
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Wi-Fi and Ethernet settings are returned to default.
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Old DNS, IP, and proxy settings are wiped clean.
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You’ll need to reconnect to Wi-Fi manually.
Troubleshooting After Reset
1. Can’t Find Wi-Fi?
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Make sure your Wi-Fi adapter is enabled.
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Press Windows + X → Device Manager → Network Adapters.
2. Still Slow?
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Contact your ISP (sometimes it’s not your PC).
3. VPN Not Working?
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Reinstall VPN software with updated credentials.
Alternative Fixes Without Resetting
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Run the Network Troubleshooter
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Go to Settings > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters → Select Internet Connections.
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Update Network Drivers
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Device Manager → Update driver for Wi-Fi/Ethernet.
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Restart Your Router
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Unplug for 30 seconds → Plug back in.
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Advanced Tips for Stable Connection
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Use a wired Ethernet connection for maximum stability.
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Turn on Metered connection to save data.
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Use DNS servers like Google DNS (8.8.8.8) for faster browsing.
Conclusion
Resetting your network settings in Windows 11 is like giving your internet a fresh start. Whether you do it through Settings, Command Prompt, or PowerShell, the process is simple and effective. Just remember you’ll need to reconnect to Wi-Fi afterward. If you’re facing stubborn connection issues, a reset might be the quick fix you need.
FAQs
Q1: Will resetting network settings delete my files?
No, it only resets network configurations, not personal files.
Q2: Do I have to reset my router too?
Not necessarily. Start with your PC reset; if issues remain, try restarting your router.
Q3: How long does it take to reset network settings?
Usually less than 5 minutes, plus a reboot.
Q4: Do I need admin rights to reset network settings?
Yes, especially if using Command Prompt or PowerShell.
Q5: Can this fix “No Internet Access” errors?
Yes, in many cases, a reset clears the error and restores connectivity.