Internet acting up? Maybe your Wi-Fi keeps disconnecting, websites load at a snail’s pace, or your VPN won’t connect. Sometimes the simplest fix is hitting the reset button—not on your router, but on your Windows 11 network settings.
When to Reset Network Settings
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Wi-Fi won’t connect even after entering the correct password.
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Ethernet shows “No Internet.”
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VPN or proxy conflicts.
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After malware cleanup.
What Resetting Actually Does
Think of it as wiping the chalkboard clean. Resetting:
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Removes saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords.
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Deletes Ethernet, VPN, and proxy settings.
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Reinstalls network adapters.
Step 1: Open Settings
Press Win + I.
Step 2: Navigate to Network & Internet
Click Network & Internet in the sidebar.
Step 3: Advanced Network Settings
Scroll down and select Advanced network settings.
Step 4: Network Reset
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Click Network Reset.
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Hit Reset now.
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Your PC will restart automatically.
Step 5: Reconnect to Wi-Fi
After restart, reconnect to your network manually.
Alternative Method: Command Prompt
Run these commands in cmd (admin):
Troubleshooting After Reset
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Still no internet? Restart your router.
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Drivers missing? Update via Device Manager.
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VPN won’t reconnect? Reinstall it.
Pros of Resetting
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Fixes most connectivity issues.
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Clears corrupt configs.
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Quick and easy.
Cons of Resetting
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You lose saved Wi-Fi passwords.
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VPN/proxy configs must be re-entered.
Wrapping It Up
Resetting network settings on Windows 11 can feel like giving your internet a fresh start. If simple troubleshooting fails, this often does the trick.
FAQs
Q1: Will resetting delete my personal files?
No, only network-related data.
Q2: Do I need admin rights?
Yes, admin access is required.
Q3: Should I try this before reinstalling drivers?
Yes—it’s less drastic.
Q4: Can I undo a network reset?
No, but you can reconfigure settings.
Q5: Does it affect Bluetooth?
Yes, Bluetooth devices will be disconnected too.