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How to troubleshoot and fix 'Limited Connectivity' or 'No Internet' issues after a Windows Update

Network & Internet KB-749

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to troubleshoot and fix 'Limited Connectivity' or 'No Internet' issues after a Windows Update. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

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Common Causes

If your Windows PC suddenly loses internet access or shows "Limited Connectivity" immediately after installing a Windows Update, it is usually due to a corrupted network driver, a changed network setting, or a conflict with the Windows networking stack. This guide provides steps to restore your connection.

Quick Fix Steps

  1. Restart your computer to ensure all update processes have completed.
  2. Restart your modem and router by unplugging them from the power source for 30 seconds, then plugging them back in.
  3. Check if other devices in your home or office can connect to the internet. If they cannot, the issue is likely with your router or internet service provider, not your PC.

Detailed Instructions

1. Run the Network Troubleshooter

Windows includes a built-in tool that can automatically detect and fix common network problems.

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to Network & internet.
  3. Scroll down and click Advanced network settings.
  4. Under "More settings", select Network troubleshooter.
  5. Follow the on-screen prompts to diagnose and resolve the issue.
Warning: Performing a Network reset will remove all saved Wi-Fi passwords and VPN connections. Ensure you have your network credentials handy before proceeding.

2. Reset the TCP/IP Stack

If the troubleshooter does not work, you can reset the network configuration using the Command Prompt.

  1. Press Windows Key + S and type cmd.
  2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
  1. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

3. Update or Roll Back the Network Driver

A Windows Update may have installed an incompatible driver for your network adapter.

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Network adapters category.
  3. Right-click your active network adapter (e.g., Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and select Properties.
  4. Click the Driver tab.
  5. If the Roll Back Driver button is available, click it and follow the prompts.
  6. If roll back is not available, select Update driver and choose Search automatically for drivers.

4. Temporarily Disable Third-Party Firewalls or VPNs

Security software or VPN clients can sometimes block traffic after a system update changes security permissions.

  1. Locate the VPN or firewall icon in the system tray (bottom right corner of your screen).
  2. Right-click the icon and select Disable or Exit.
  3. Test your internet connection.
  4. If the connection returns, check the software vendor's website for an updated version compatible with your current Windows build.

Wi-Fi connected but no internet

If you are connected to your Wi-Fi but cannot browse the web, try forgetting the network and reconnecting:

  1. Open Settings and go to Network & internet.
  2. Select Wi-Fi and then Manage known networks.
  3. Click Forget next to your network name.
  4. Reconnect to the network and enter your password. For more help, see our guide on How to connect to Wi-Fi.
Tip: If you are using a laptop, ensure that the physical Wi-Fi switch or function key (e.g., Fn + F2) is enabled.

If you have completed these steps and are still experiencing connectivity issues, please Open a Ticket with our Brisbane support team.

Still Having Issues?

Need more help? If the issue persists after trying these steps, please open a support ticket and our team will assist you.

💻 Open a Ticket

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