Resetting the network settings on Windows 11 is sort of a last resort, but it can sort out all sorts of odd connection dramas that just won’t clear up. Basically, it wipes all your current network configs, removes network adapters, and resets everything back to factory defaults. After you do this, your PC will restart and you’ll need to punch in things like Wi-Fi passwords or VPN details again — yeah, it’s a bit of a pain, but when nothing else works, this method often does the trick.
How to Network Reset Windows 11
If pages aren’t loading or you’re getting TCP/IP stack errors, or maybe your Wi-Fi just won’t connect no matter what, giving this reset a go might do the trick. Here’s a quick rundown:
Step 1: Open Settings
Hit the Start button, then click that gear icon or just press Win + I to open Settings. Heads up: Sometimes it can feel a bit laggy or glitchy — welcome to Windows 11, right?
Step 2: Go to Network & Internet
On the sidebar in Settings, click Network & Internet. This is where all the network magic happens, from Wi-Fi to Ethernet, and where you’ll find the reset option lurking.
Step 3: Tap on Advanced Network Settings
Scroll down a bit until you spot Advanced Network Settings and click on it. If it’s not obvious, it’s probably tucked under some dropdown or collapsible menu — Windows loves hiding things behind layers.
Step 4: Pick Network Reset
Now, find Network Reset at the bottom. Because of course, Windows has to make things tricky by hiding it away. Click on that link and a page will open explaining what it does. Basically, it wipes all network adapters and resets to default.
Step 5: Hit Reset Now
Once you’re there, click the Reset now button, then confirm any prompts. Your PC will restart — and in some cases, it might take a bit longer or need a second go. Note: this temporarily disconnects your internet, so have your Wi-Fi passwords or VPN info ready to re-enter.
After the restart, your network will be like new out of the box. Sometimes, this straight-up fixes issues like slow speeds, dropouts, or trouble connecting to certain networks. Not quite sure why it works, but on some machines it fails the first time, then sorts itself out after a reboot — maybe worth trying again if it’s being stubborn.
Tips for Network Reset on Windows 11
- Back up your Wi-Fi passwords and VPN settings before hitting reset — this will erase them, and it’s a pain to remember every password manually.
- Try easier fixes first, like restarting your router or updating your network drivers. The reset is the nuclear option, so don’t jump straight to it.
- Right after resetting, head to Device Manager and update your network drivers. Sometimes, resetting flags up driver issues or outdated versions that cause headaches.
- If you’re using a work or school machine, check with your IT crew before going ahead. They might have policies that get broken easily.
- Remember: this won’t fix hardware issues. If your modem or router is stuffed or faulty, resetting Windows won’t fix that.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to my Wi-Fi networks after reset?
All saved Wi-Fi networks are wiped, so you’ll need to enter your passwords again. Think of it like wiping the memory — annoying, but sometimes necessary.
Can it fix slow internet?
Sometimes yes, especially if the issue is caused by misconfigured network settings. It’s not magic, but it’s worth a shot.
Will it mess with other settings?
Nope, it only resets stuff related to network connections. Other system settings or files stay as they are.
Is it safe?
Generally, yeah. Just make sure you have your network details saved somewhere before you start. It’s usually a quick process, but in some cases, it can be a bit nerve-wracking — so proceed with caution.
How long does it take?
Only a few minutes, tops. The reset itself is quick, but the restart might add an extra couple of minutes depending on your hardware.
Summary
- Open Settings
- Go to Network & Internet
- Click on Advanced Network Settings
- Select Network Reset
- Hit Reset Now and confirm
Hopefully, this saves you a bit of grief. It’s pretty straightforward once you’ve got the hang of it, even if Windows makes it a pain to find everything. Just remember, this isn’t a fix for hardware dramas — if your Wi-Fi’s totally dead, it’s probably a router or modem issue. Classic Windows buggering things up, again.