Match 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.
Show stop conditions
- The router or power adapter is hot, damaged, or smells burned
- A work or school network requires administrator changes
Likely causes
- The router or internet service is offline
- A VPN, proxy, or custom DNS setting is blocking traffic
- The Wi-Fi adapter has an invalid address or driver state
- Only one website or app is failing
Quick checks, in order
Test another device on the same Wi-Fi
If every device is offline, focus on the router or internet provider.
Turn off VPN and proxy temporarily
Retest one normal website after disabling traffic-filtering tools.
Forget and reconnect to the network
Re-enter the Wi-Fi password and allow Windows to obtain fresh network settings.
Run Network and Internet troubleshooting
Use Windows Get Help or Settings before resetting the entire network.
What still works on the connection?
Restart the modem or router and check the provider status.
Focus on the adapter, VPN, DNS, driver, and saved network profile.
A DNS, filtering, date/time, or specific service issue is more likely.
Stop and get qualified help when
- The router or power adapter is hot, damaged, or smells burned
- A work or school network requires administrator changes
Official support and model manuals
Use the full model number from the rating label. The manufacturer manual is the deciding reference when codes differ by region or product family.
Frequently asked questions
Why does Windows say connected when the internet is down?
Connected describes the link to the router, not the router’s connection to the wider internet.
Should I use Network reset first?
No. Try the smaller checks first because Network reset removes saved adapters and network configuration.