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WiFi Not Working? 10 Fixes to Try Right Now

Before you call your ISP, try these fixes. Most WiFi problems have simple solutions.

1. Restart Your Router

Unplug your router for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Wait 2 minutes for it to fully reboot.

This clears the router’s memory, renews your IP address, and resolves most temporary connection issues.

2. Check You’re Connected to the Right Network

It’s easy to accidentally connect to a neighbor’s network or a public hotspot. Check your WiFi settings and verify the network name (SSID).

3. Move Closer to the Router

WiFi signal weakens with distance. Walls, floors, and large appliances (especially microwaves and refrigerators) block signals. Try moving within the same room as the router.

4. Restart Your Device

Network adapters can get stuck. A full restart of your computer or phone clears temporary connection problems.

5. Forget and Reconnect

On your device, “forget” the WiFi network, then reconnect by entering the password fresh.

Windows: Settings → Network & Internet → WiFi → Manage known networks → Forget

macOS: System Settings → WiFi → Details → Forget This Network

iPhone/Android: Settings → WiFi → tap network name → Forget

6. Update Router Firmware

Router manufacturers release firmware updates that fix bugs and security issues. Check your router’s admin panel (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) for a firmware update option.

7. Change WiFi Channel

If you live in a dense area, your neighbors’ WiFi may interfere. Try switching your router to a less congested channel:

  • Log into your router’s admin panel
  • Find wireless settings
  • Change the channel from “Auto” to 1, 6, or 11 (2.4GHz band)
  • For 5GHz, try higher-numbered channels

8. Check for Interference

Common household items that interfere with WiFi:

  • Microwave ovens (especially near 2.4GHz)
  • Cordless phones
  • Baby monitors
  • Bluetooth devices
  • Metal furniture or mirrors near the router

9. Update Network Drivers (Windows) 

Device Manager → Network adapters → Right-click your adapter → Update driver

Outdated network drivers can cause intermittent disconnections and slow speeds.

10. When to Call Your ISP

If none of the above work, the problem may be outside your home:

  • Your internet plan speed is too slow for your usage
  • An outage in your area (check your ISP’s status page)
  • Damaged cabling (check if the cable from the wall to your router is damaged)

Quick Checklist

  • Router restarted
  • Device restarted
  • Connected to correct network
  • Within range of router
  • No obvious interference
  • Other devices have the same issue (helps isolate the problem)

More tech help: Check our computer speed-up guide and security guides.