Getting online on Windows 11 should be straightforward, but sometimes it can be a bit of a hassle. Maybe your Wi-Fi isn’t showing up, or the Ethernet cable just isn’t recognised. Clicking the network icon, picking your network, entering the password—on paper, it’s easy. But a few little issues can throw you off. This guide’s here to help clear things up, whether you’re in a café or struggling with that endless Wi-Fi list at home. Honestly, Windows can be a bit cheeky when it comes to connecting—sometimes the troubleshooting tools don’t get it or take forever.
How to Connect to the Internet on Windows 11
Open Network Settings
First off, find the Wi-Fi icon down in the taskbar at the bottom right—looks like some curved lines radiating out. Click on it, and the network menu will pop up. If you don’t see it, check your system tray isn’t minimised or that the icon isn’t hiding in the little arrow. On some setups, it’s quicker to head straight into Settings via Start menu > Settings > Network & Internet. That way, you get the full picture, including Ethernet and VPN options, just in case.
Select Your Network
Once the network menu’s open, you’ll see a list of Wi-Fi networks nearby. Sometimes, your network doesn’t pop up straight away—maybe interference, driver hiccups, or just Windows doing its thing. If your Wi-Fi isn’t showing, try toggling the Wi-Fi switch in Settings or disabling and re-enabling the network adapter through Device Manager (Right-click Start > Device Manager > Network Adapters > your wireless adapter) and clicking Disable, then Enable. In some cases, restarting just the Wi-Fi adapter from PowerShell or Command Prompt with netsh interface set interface "Wi-Fi" disable and then enable helps. No real reason, but oddly enough, it works a lot of the time.
Enter Your Password Carefully
When you click on your network, Windows will ask for a password. Type it in carefully—mind the uppercase, lowercase, and special characters. If you get the password wrong a few times, Windows might block the prompt temporarily. Just wait a bit or restart the connection. And if you’re going to reconnect often, saving the password in the profile makes life easier—tick ‘Connect automatically’ to skip the hassle next time.
Connect via Ethernet (Optional)
If you’re plugged in, connect the Ethernet cable and you should be good to go. Usually, Windows detects the wired connection straight away—no fuss. If it’s not, check Settings > Network & Internet > Ethernet to see if it shows as connected. Sometimes you need to toggle the adapter or restart the network service. Also, double-check your cable—sometimes that’s the issue. If Ethernet still won’t work, try switching ports or replugging the cable.
Make Sure You’re Actually Connected
Look at the network icon—if it’s showing a globe or a broken chain, there’s still a problem. When connected properly, it’ll show a Wi-Fi signal or Ethernet symbol. To test your connection, open Command Prompt and type ping google.com. If it responds, you’re online; if not, restart your router, unplug-replug, or dig deeper into the troubleshooting.
Tips for Connecting to the Internet on Windows 11
- Make sure your Wi-Fi router’s turned on and within range—sometimes moving a metre closer does the trick.
- Update your network drivers via Device Manager > Network Adapters. Outdated drivers can cause all sorts of dramas.
- Keep your password handy and secure—if you change it, you’ll need to update it in network settings before reconnecting.
- If things act up, a quick restart of your PC or router can work wonders. Sounds simple, but it often fixes the issue.
- Using a Wi-Fi analyser app (like NetSpot or inSSIDer) can help you find the clearest channel if your Wi-Fi keeps dropping out or slowing down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I see my Wi-Fi network?
Could be out of range, or your Wi-Fi adapter’s acting dodgy. Check your router’s on and within reach, then toggle your Wi-Fi adapter in Device Manager (Right-click Start > Device Manager) to reset it. Sometimes, a driver update is needed if it’s been a while.
What if I forget my Wi-Fi password?
Check your router, or log into its admin panel—usually at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. Your password might be listed there, or you can reset it if needed. Else, give your internet provider a shout for help.
Ethernet isn’t working—what now?
First, make sure the cable’s plugged in properly and isn’t stuffed. Try swapping it or trying a different port. If that doesn’t work, head into Settings > Network & Internet > Ethernet to see if it’s connected. Restarting your network adapter with PowerShell commands like Get-NetAdapter then Disable-NetAdapter -Name "Ethernet" -Confirm:$false and Enable-NetAdapter -Name "Ethernet" can do the trick, too.
How do I connect to a hidden network?
If your network isn’t showing up, you can add it manually. Hit Join other network then choose Manually connect to a hidden network. Pop in your SSID and credentials there.
Is public Wi-Fi safe?
Not exactly. Public networks can be risky. Use a VPN (like NordVPN or ExpressVPN) to encrypt your traffic and keep prying eyes out. And avoid sharing files or logging into sensitive accounts on public Wi-Fi—better to be safe.
Summary
- Click the Wi-Fi icon or go into Settings > Network & Internet.
- Select your network or add it manually.
- Type in your password carefully—double-check for typos.
- Connect via Ethernet if wiring up; check cables and ports.
- Check connection status via the icon or by pinging a website in Command Prompt.
Wrap-up
Connecting to the net on Windows 11 is generally pretty straightforward, but a few things can trip you up. Hopefully, these tips—some simple, some a bit techy—cover most situations. Updating drivers, toggling adapters, and making sure your network settings are right often does the trick. If all else fails, restarting your router or PC can clear out stubborn glitches. Fingers crossed, this helps some fellow Aussies save a bit of hassle—because honestly, Windows and networking can be a bit finicky at times.