WINDOW 11

How to Fix Unidentified Network in Windows 11 (Ethernet Cable / No Internet Access)

4 SOLUTIONS
FEBRUARY 12, 2025

Are you experiencing an “Unidentified Network” error on Windows 11 that is blocking your Ethernet connection or internet access? These four quick solutions will restore connectivity: reset adapters, update drivers, run troubleshooters, and adjust IPv4 settings.

Deepak Yadav
Deepak Yadav

Expert, Head of Windows Circle

Router & Modem On

Power off the router for 30 seconds, then restart.

Secure Ethernet Connection

The Ethernet cable (if using a wired connection) is securely plugged in.

Disable Firewall & VPN

Any third-party firewall or VPN is temporarily disabled for testing.

Reset Network Adapter Settings

5 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

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METHOD
Method 1
Overview

Follow these steps to reset your network adapter and resolve connectivity issues.

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Next Method
Step 1

Access Advanced Network Settings 

Press Win + I to open Settings.

 Navigate to Network & internet

Click on Advanced network settings.

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Step 1 of 5

Open Network Adapter Options 

Scroll down and click More network adapter options.

 A new window titled Network Connections will open.

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Step 2 of 5

Open Adapter Properties 

Locate your active network adapter (e.g., Ethernet or Wi-Fi). 

Right-click the adapter and select Properties.

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Step 4

Configure IPv4

Settings In the Properties window, find and select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4). Click Properties. In the new window: - Select Obtain an IP address automatically. - Select Obtain DNS server address automatically

Click OK, then Close.

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Restart Your Network Connection  

Go back to the Network Connections window. 

Right-click on the network adapter and select Disable. Wait a few seconds, then right-click again and select Enable.

Check if the issue is resolved.

Caution: If your network uses a static IP, enter the correct IP, Subnet Mask, and Gateway provided by your ISP in the IPv4 settings to ensure a stable connection.

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Reset Network Settings

4 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

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METHOD
Method 2
Overview

If the issue persists, resetting your network settings can help.

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Open Settings

Press Win + I to launch Settings.

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Go to Network Settings

Navigate to Network & Internet > Advanced network settings.

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Perform Network Reset

Click Network reset and then select Reset now.

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Restart PC

Reboot your computer to apply the changes.

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Update Network Drivers

4 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

3/4

METHOD
Method 3
Overview

Ensure your network adapter has the latest drivers to avoid connectivity issues.

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Open Device Manager

Press Win + X and select Device Manager.

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Find Network Adapter

Expand Network adapters and locate your active network device.

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Update Driver

Right-click your adapter and choose Update driver.

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Search Automatically

Select Search automatically for drivers and follow the prompts.

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Run Network Troubleshooter

4 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

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METHOD
Method 4
Overview

Fix common network issues automatically using the built-in troubleshooter.

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Open Settings

Press Win + I to launch Settings.

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Step 2

Go to Troubleshoot Options

Navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.

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Run Network Troubleshooter

Scroll down and click Run next to Network & Internet.

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Follow Fix Recommendations

Let Windows diagnose and apply fixes automatically.

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Additional Tips

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If you're using Wi-Fi, forget and reconnect to the network.

Verify DHCP is enabled on your router: Static IPs should only be used if your router’s DHCP is disabled.

Ensure Windows is up to date by checking Settings > Windows Update.