Solved: Ethernet Not Working But WiFi Does

Having trouble with your Ethernet connection while your WiFi is working just fine? You’re not alone! Many users face this frustrating issue, but fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the problem.

This guide will outline five essential steps to diagnose and fix your Ethernet connection, along with potential causes and solutions. Whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned user, you will find answers to help you get back online seamlessly.

Step 1: Check the Ethernet Cable

To fix network problems, start by examining the Ethernet cable. Issues with the cable can lead to your wired internet not functioning, preventing devices from connecting online on computers running Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Begin by visually inspecting the entire length of the Ethernet cable for any signs of wear, frays, or kinks, as these can lead to signal degradation.

Make sure the cable is firmly plugged into both the device and the router or switch; a loose cable can cause random problems.

If the cable appears intact, testing it with a different device can help identify whether the problem lies with the cable or the original device.

Looking in the device manager for any signs of problems with the Ethernet drivers can help identify issues. Not all Ethernet cables are created equal, and choosing the right type can significantly impact your network efficiency. According to Digital Trends, understanding the various types of Ethernet cables is crucial for optimal performance.

Updating the drivers may resolve the connection problem, ensuring a smooth online experience.

Step 2: Restart Your Router and Modem

Restarting your router and modem can often resolve temporary network connection issues, as this refreshes the device settings and may fix any glitches affecting your internet service provider’s connectivity.

To safely restart these devices, begin by locating the power cords for both the router and modem. Unplug them from the wall outlet and from the devices themselves.

After turning off the power, it is important to wait for about 30 seconds so that any leftover power can disappear. This process helps clear temporary memory, potentially improving performance.

Once the waiting period is over, reconnect the modem first, followed by the router. This sequence sets up a stable connection.

If issues persist after restarting, it might be beneficial for users to log into the router settings to check for any configurations that may need adjustment. As mentioned, checking configurations can sometimes uncover problems such as an IP conflict error that might be affecting network connectivity.

Step 3: Update Network Drivers

Updating your network drivers is important for stable connections because old or damaged ethernet drivers can cause ongoing connection issues on your computer. For context, an in-depth discussion on Reddit explores the differences between Windows driver updates and manufacturer-specific drivers, providing insights into which might be more reliable.

1. To access the Device Manager on your PC, right-click on the Start menu and select ‘Device Manager’ from the list.
2. In Device Manager, look in the ‘Network Adapters’ section to locate your ethernet driver. Right-click on it and choose ‘Update Driver.’
3. If you want to manually download the latest drivers, visit the manufacturer’s website, select your specific model, and download the appropriate ethernet drivers.
4. If you’re experiencing connection issues, consider running the network troubleshooter. This built-in tool can often identify and resolve common connection problems, ensuring that the network functions smoothly (our [guide on solving DNS server issues](https://howisolvedit.com/tech-troubleshooting/devices-hardware/internet-issues/fix-dns-server-not-responding/) offers additional troubleshooting tips).

Step 4: Check Network Settings

Verifying your network settings is essential in troubleshooting ethernet connection issues, as incorrect configurations can prevent successful connections and hinder your ability to access the internet.

First, go to the ‘Settings’ menu by clicking the Start button or pressing the Windows key on your keyboard.

From there, select ‘Network & Internet’, where you can determine whether your network profile is set to public or private. Choosing this option is essential because it affects how others can see your network and its safety measures. For further clarification on these options, recent analysis from How-To Geek explains the critical differences between private and public networks in Windows.

Make sure your ethernet connection is turned on in this menu. If problems persist, running the built-in network diagnostics tool can help identify any underlying issues that may be affecting connectivity, thus guiding you toward effective solutions.

Step 5: Contact Your Internet Service Provider (ISP)

If none of the troubleshooting steps work, you should reach out to your internet service provider (ISP). They can inform you about possible outages, problems with your local connection, and verify if your firmware version is current.

When contacting support, clearly describe the problems you’re facing, such as occasional internet dropouts or very slow speeds. Also, mention any actions you have taken, like restarting the modem or checking for loose cables.

This information helps the support team find the issue faster. Be vigilant about online scams that may pose as ISPs; always verify the official channels for communication.

Checking their website or customer service hotline can safeguard you against fraudulent activities while ensuring you receive the help needed to restore your connection.

Why Is My Ethernet Not Working but WiFi Is?

If your wired internet isn’t working while Wi-Fi is functioning, it usually means there might be problems with the hardware, cables, or certain settings for that connection. Check the network settings and use tools such as the network troubleshooter or Command Prompt to resolve the problem.

This situation can be frustrating, especially if it interrupts important tasks. Ethernet connections usually provide quicker and more reliable internet speeds than Wi-Fi, though differences can result from various reasons.

For instance, faulty cables, loose connections, or incompatible network cards might cause poor performance. Differing configurations in network settings between the two systems could exacerbate these issues.

Knowing this, using diagnostic tools is important; they help find hidden issues and allow for focused actions to fix connectivity, improving the user experience. If you’re curious about specific Wi-Fi problems and solutions, such as how to resolve issues when your laptop isn’t connecting to WiFi, our detailed guide can provide insights.

What Are the Possible Causes of Ethernet Not Working?

There are various reasons why your ethernet connection might not be working. The issue might be as simple as a damaged ethernet cable, or more complex like incorrect network settings or faulty network adapters.

We need to carefully look at these parts to find the main problem.

Begin by inspecting the physical state of the ethernet cables for any visible signs of wear or damage that might impede connectivity. Next, open the device manager and check for any alerts or problems with network adapters. Old or turned-off drivers might cause connection problems.

Tools for fixing problems can help by showing users which settings might require changes to make things work correctly again. By diligently assessing these areas, one can often resolve the underlying causes of ethernet connectivity problems.

How Can I Troubleshoot My Ethernet Connection?

To troubleshoot your ethernet connection effectively, start by utilizing the network troubleshooter in Windows, which can automatically identify and resolve common connection problems, while also ensuring that your ethernet drivers are up to date and functioning properly.

Once you open this tool, get ready to follow the easy steps shown on the screen that will guide you to identify and solve any problems. If problems continue, you might want to check your physical connections yourself-make sure your cables are firmly connected and not visibly damaged.

Trying to connect using different devices can help identify the problem. If one device connects without issues but another doesn’t, the problem might be with that specific device instead of the network.

It’s wise to visit the manufacturer’s website to verify that the drivers are the most current version, as outdated drivers can often lead to connectivity troubles.

What Are the Common Solutions for Ethernet Not Working?

Common solutions for resolving ethernet connectivity issues include performing a network reset, checking connection status, and even uninstalling and reinstalling the ethernet device from the device manager.

To begin with, a network reset can be a powerful remedy that typically clears out any misconfigurations. Go to your device’s network settings, find ‘Network Reset’, and follow the instructions to return your network settings to the original factory settings. After this, reboot your machine.

Next, check that the ethernet cable is firmly connected and that the lights on the modem are working. If necessary, try a different cable to rule out physical damage.

Try removing and reinstalling the ethernet adapter in the device manager to solve driver issues. Find the device, right-click to remove it, and restart your computer so it can reinstall automatically.

When Should I Contact My ISP for Help?

If you’ve tried all troubleshooting steps and your ethernet connection still isn’t working, consider contacting your internet service provider (ISP) for more help, especially if you think there might be a problem with the firmware version or local outages affecting your connection.

This is especially important if you’ve already attempted to reset your modem, confirmed the cables are connected, and verified your settings are right.

The ISP can help determine whether your firmware needs an update, which is a common source of connection problems. If there are widespread outages or maintenance in your area, they can provide timely updates and guidance.

If certain devices have trouble connecting, the ISP can help fix these problems and verify if the devices work with the network. Their support staff may also help you identify if there are underlying issues that need addressing for a more reliable internet experience.

How Can I Avoid Ethernet Connection Problems Going Forward?

You can stop ethernet connection problems later by keeping your connection steady. Regularly check your ethernet cable for damage, pay attention to your network settings, and update your networking software to prevent problems.

Make sure the cables are firmly connected to both your device and the router to prevent interruptions.

Joining online forums or communities can provide useful advice and support from people who have dealt with similar issues. By trading advice and sharing experiences, one can find new ways to improve connection stability. Related insight: How I Solved Constant WiFi Disconnection Issue, offering methods that may also enhance your ethernet stability.

Remember to regularly update your device’s network drivers; this can solve a lot of problems with compatibility and connectivity that might interrupt your internet use.