Fix When Wi-Fi Works But Ethernet Does Not

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If your Internet works on a WiFi router but not on an Ethernet modem, or if your Internet works with Ethernet but not wireless, this patch will help you run the Internet on your Windows 10/8/7 PC in both cases.

1. Check and Reset Winsock and IP Stacks

Resetting Winsock and IP stacks can resolve various network connectivity issues. This process involves using the Command Prompt in Windows. Follow these steps:

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Type the command netsh winsock reset and press Enter.
• To reset the IPv4 stack, type netsh int ipv4 reset reset.log and press Enter.
• For the IPv6 stack, type netsh int ipv6 reset reset.log and press Enter.
• Restart your computer to apply these changes.

These commands help reset the network software to its original state, potentially fixing connectivity issues​​.

2. Switch Frequency Bands

Many modern routers support dual-band technology, allowing you to choose between the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands. Each band has its advantages and disadvantages:

• 2.4GHz Band:
  • Offers wider coverage but may be slower due to congestion and interference.
  • Compatible with older wireless devices.
• 5GHz Band:
  • Provides faster speeds but has a shorter range.
  • Less likely to be interfered with by other devices.
  • Not all devices, especially older ones, are compatible with this band.

To switch frequency bands:

• Access your router’s settings through its web interface.
• Look for settings related to Wi-Fi frequency bands.
• Choose between 2.4GHz and 5GHz based on your needs and device compatibility.

Changing the frequency band can sometimes resolve issues related to signal strength and interference​​.

3. Reinstall Network Drivers

Network drivers are essential for your computer’s ability to communicate with its network hardware. If these drivers are outdated or corrupted, it can lead to connectivity problems. To update or reinstall your network drivers:

• Open Device Manager in Windows.
• Expand the “Network adapters” section.
• Right-click on your network adapter and select “Update driver”.
• Choose “Search automatically for updated driver software”.
• Follow the prompts to install any available updates.
• If updating doesn’t work, try reinstalling the driver by selecting “Uninstall device”.
• Restart your computer. Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver automatically.

Updating or reinstalling network drivers can fix issues where the ethernet is not working but WiFi is​.

4. Change MAC Address

Changing the MAC (Media Access Control) address of your network interface can sometimes resolve network connectivity issues, especially if the MAC address is misidentified or causing conflicts.

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Use the command ipconfig /all to display your network configuration, including the MAC address.
• Open Device Manager and expand the “Network adapters” section.
• Right-click on your Ethernet adapter, choose “Properties”, and navigate to the “Advanced” tab.
• Find and select “Locally Administered Address” or a similar option.
• Enter a new MAC address and apply the changes.
• Restart your computer to apply the new settings.

This process alters the network interface’s MAC address, which can resolve issues related to network restrictions or conflicts​​.

5. Flush DNS and Reset TCP/IP

Flushing the DNS (Domain Name System) cache and resetting the TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) stack can solve various network issues. These are fundamental components for internet connectivity.

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Execute the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
  • ipconfig /release
  • ipconfig /flushdns
  • ipconfig /renew
  • netsh int ip reset
  • netsh winsock reset
• Restart your computer to complete the reset process.

This procedure can resolve issues related to the incorrect assignment of IP addresses and corrupted DNS cache entries​.

6. Check for Physical Hardware Issues

Physical issues with network cables, ports, or hardware can disrupt your internet connectivity. It’s important to inspect these components:

• Inspect Ethernet Cables: Check for any visible damage and ensure the cable is securely connected. Try using a different cable to see if the issue persists.
• Check Ethernet Ports: Look for signs of damage or obstruction in the ports on your router, modem, and computer.
• Test with Different Hardware: Try connecting the Ethernet cable to a different computer or router to isolate the issue.
• Consider Cable Length: Ensure the Ethernet cable is not excessively long, as this can degrade the signal quality. The maximum recommended length is 328 feet (100 meters).

Addressing these physical aspects can often resolve connectivity problems that aren’t related to software or settings​.

7. Improve Router Placement

Optimizing the location of your Wi-Fi router can significantly impact your network’s performance:

• Central and Elevated Position: Place your router in a central location at an elevated position to maximize coverage.
• Avoid Obstructions: Keep the router away from metal, concrete, and water, as these materials can interfere with Wi-Fi signals. Also, avoid placing it near microwaves and cordless phones.
• Distance Considerations: Ensure that your devices are within the effective range of the Wi-Fi signal for optimal performance.

Proper router placement can enhance signal strength and coverage, leading to better Wi-Fi performance​​.

8. Use Windows or Apple Troubleshooters

Built-in troubleshooters in Windows and macOS can help diagnose and fix network issues:

• Windows Troubleshooter: Access the troubleshooter by navigating to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot. Choose the troubleshooter for Internet Connections.
• Apple Diagnostics or Apple Hardware Test: For Mac computers, use Apple Diagnostics (models from 2013 and later) or Apple Hardware Test (older models) to scan for Wi-Fi problems. Restart your Mac and hold down the D key during boot to start the diagnostics.

These built-in tools can automatically identify and sometimes resolve network issues​.

9. Turn Off Windows Defender Firewall Temporarily

Sometimes, the Windows Defender Firewall might block your internet connection. Disabling it temporarily can help identify if it’s causing the issue:

• Type ‘Windows Defender Firewall’ in the Windows search bar.
• Select ‘Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off’.
• Temporarily disable the firewall for both private and public networks.
• Check if the internet connection issue is resolved.
• Remember to re-enable the firewall for your security once the test is complete.

Disabling the firewall should only be a temporary measure to diagnose connectivity issues. Ensure it’s turned back on to maintain system security​​.

10. Reconfigure Network Settings

Incorrect network configuration can lead to connectivity issues. Reconfiguring network settings might help:

• Open the Network and Sharing Center and navigate to ‘Change adapter settings’.
• Right-click your network connection and select ‘Properties’.
• Choose ‘Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)’ or ‘Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)’.
• Ensure the settings are configured to obtain an IP address and DNS server address automatically, or set them manually if required.
• Apply the changes and check if the connectivity issue is resolved.

Properly configuring network settings can resolve issues related to IP address assignments and connectivity.

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