Common Solutions for no Internet Connection

It is very frustrating when technology does not work, but most issues can be easily resolved without the need to call tech support.

There are several common issues that can easily be solved and allow you to go about your day using the internet and all of its wonderful glory.

Visit Multiple Websites

False alarms are common. Sometimes what seems to be an issue with your network connection is actually just an issue with the website you are visiting.

Solution - before assuming your Internet connection is not working, try visiting multiple websites.

Check the Connections

Sometimes the most advanced software, designed by the smartest people is no match for a loose connection or an unplugged cord.

Solution - For a wired Internet connection check and be sure that your ethernet cable is firmly plugged into your PC and into the wall. For a wireless connection make sure your router is plugged in and powered on.

Run the Windows Network Diagnostic Tool

Now let us try and determine if the issue is with your PC or with your network connection. If your computer recently updated their may be some software incompatibility issues, usually with antivirus programs or VPNs. Luckily the built in network diagnostic tool for your OS - Windows, MacOS, Ubuntu etc.- is quite robust and can detect such issues.

Solution- Right click on the internet icon in your tray in the bottom right of your screen and click on Troubleshoot problems. Follow the on screen prompts and let the program run. Upon completion the program will let you know if your issue has been resolved. If the issue persists the diagnostic tool can point you towards the underlying problem.

Reset the DNS Cache

Your DNS cache stores (caches) the IP addresses of web servers you have recently visited in order for them to be loaded faster. If the address of the server changes before your DNS caches updates then you will no longer be able to access those sites. Luckily there is a simple command that can fix this issue.

Solution - Open Command Prompt by hitting the Windows key + X or typing Command Prompt into the Start menu search box. Right click on Command Prompt and select Run as Administrator.  Type in the following command: ipconfig /flushdns

Hit Enter and you should see

*Note, there is a space between ipconfig and the "/" character

Check the Firewall

Firewall software runs behind the scenes and ensures your network traffic is routed properly and that traffic that could interfere with your computer and its Internet connection, like malicious software, are blocked. Unfortunately, this software can malfunction and start blocking legitimate Internet traffic. This is most often the case when two firewalls are installed, like Windows Firewall and a third-party firewall. Miscommunication between the two can lead to incorrect blocking of the wrong network traffic

Solution - If you have recently updated or installed a new firewall temporarily disable it to see if it the cause of the issue. Type in firewall into the Start search panel, click on the suggested option and select disable. Check your Internet connection by visiting a website. If the issue is fixed then you need to uninstall and reinstall the firewall.

Reset and Restart

The Internet is a complex entity with massive infrastructure but like all things, it can break. Resetting your router will revert the system to the default factory settings. Restarting your computer will allow for any updates to finish installing and will reset your wireless connections.

Solution - Reset your wireless router by hitting the reset button on the back of the device with a pen or pencil, pressing and holding for five seconds. Restart your computer after this is done to be doubly sure the issue is fixed.

Reset the Winsock API

If you have come this far then the issue you are having requires an unorthodox solution. Personally I had a troubling issue with Internet connectivity after a Windows update. I exhausted all common solutions and yet the issue persisted. Luckily, I read about potential conflicts with VPN software, especially with Windows 10 updates and after creating a System Restore point I executed the following command and all my issues were solved.

The Winsock API is a technical specification that governs and coordinates how the Windows network software accesses network services like TCP/IP.

Solution - Open Command Prompt by hitting the Windows key + X or typing Command Prompt into the Start menu search box. Right click on Command Prompt and select Run as Administrator.  Type in the following command: netsh winsock reset

Hit Enter and you should see

Restart you computer for the change to take effect. Do remember to create a System Restore point before doing this.

 

If your Internet connection issue has not been resolved or you have any other computer problems please contact our exceptionally friendly and professional technicians at PC TEC RESCUERS. Our friendly support staff is available for you 24/7.