Guided check
0/4 checkedMatch the symptom, then work through the safe checks.
1. What best matches what you observe?
2. Complete only the checks that are safe for you.
4 user-level checks are available in this guide.Stop immediately if any warning condition applies.
Show stop conditions
- The Ethernet port is physically damaged or hot
- The network uses enterprise authentication or managed VLANs
Likely causes
- The router or provider is offline
- The device did not receive a valid network address
- The Ethernet port, cable, VLAN, or dock is misconfigured
- DNS, proxy, or VPN settings block traffic
Quick checks, in order
Test another cable or router port
Use a known-good cable and avoid an unpowered adapter chain.
Check the assigned IP address
A self-assigned address indicates DHCP trouble.
Disable VPN and proxy for one test
Restore required settings afterward.
Restart the adapter, router, and device
On managed networks, contact the administrator before changing VLAN or authentication.
What address and link state are shown?
Link light is off
Focus on cable, port, dock, adapter, and speed negotiation.
Link is on but address is 169.254.x.x
The device is not receiving DHCP configuration.
Local devices work, internet does not
The gateway, DNS, WAN, or provider is the next area.
Stop and get qualified help when
Do not continue troubleshooting if any of these apply:
- The Ethernet port is physically damaged or hot
- The network uses enterprise authentication or managed VLANs
Frequently asked questions
Why can Ethernet show connected without internet?
Connected confirms the local cable link, not the router’s upstream internet path.
Can a bad cable still show a link?
Yes. Some wire pairs or speeds may negotiate while traffic remains unreliable.
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