Ethernet Connected But No Internet? 10 Fixes

Quick Fix

Unplug your Ethernet cable, wait 10 seconds, and plug it back in firmly. Then restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds. This simple reset resolves most Ethernet connectivity issues.

Understanding Ethernet Without Internet

When your computer shows Ethernet as connected but has no internet access, the physical connection to your router works, but data isn’t reaching the internet. You might see “No Internet Access” or “Limited Connectivity” in Windows.

This differs from WiFi issues because the wired connection eliminates wireless interference as a cause. The problem usually lies with your router, ISP, IP configuration, or DNS settings.

Ethernet issues are often easier to diagnose than WiFi problems because there are fewer variables to consider.

Method 1: Check Cable Connections

1. Unplug the Ethernet cable from your computer
2. Check both ends for damage or bent pins
3. Plug it back in firmly until you hear a click
4. Check the connection at your router too
5. Try a different Ethernet port on your router
6. If possible, test with a different Ethernet cable
7. Look for link lights on both your computer and router

Method 2: Restart Router and Modem

1. Unplug your router from power
2. If you have a separate modem, unplug that too
3. Wait 30 seconds
4. Plug in the modem first, wait for lights to stabilize
5. Then plug in the router
6. Wait 2-3 minutes for full startup
7. Test your Ethernet connection

Method 3: Run Network Troubleshooter

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings
2. Go to System > Troubleshoot
3. Click Other troubleshooters
4. Click Run next to Network and Internet
5. Follow the prompts
6. Apply any recommended fixes
7. The troubleshooter often identifies the specific issue

Method 4: Release and Renew IP Address

1. Press Windows + X > Terminal (Admin)
2. Type ipconfig /release and press Enter
3. Wait for it to complete
4. Type ipconfig /renew and press Enter
5. Wait for a new IP address to be assigned
6. Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter
7. Test your internet connection

Method 5: Change DNS Servers

1. Press Windows + R, type ncpa.cpl, press Enter
2. Right-click your Ethernet adapter > Properties
3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 > Properties
4. Select Use the following DNS server addresses
5. Enter 8.8.8.8 for Preferred DNS
6. Enter 8.8.4.4 for Alternate DNS
7. Click OK and test your connection

Method 6: Reset TCP/IP Stack

1. Open Terminal or Command Prompt as administrator
2. Run: netsh winsock reset
3. Run: netsh int ip reset
4. Run: netsh int ipv4 reset
5. Run: netsh int ipv6 reset
6. Restart your computer
7. Test internet after restart

Method 7: Update Network Adapter Driver

1. Press Windows + X > Device Manager
2. Expand Network adapters
3. Right-click your Ethernet adapter
4. Select Update driver
5. Choose Search automatically
6. If no update found, try Uninstall device
7. Restart – Windows will reinstall the driver

Method 8: Check for ISP Outage

1. Check if WiFi devices have internet (if router WiFi works)
2. If nothing has internet, issue is likely ISP-side
3. Use phone data to check your ISP’s status page
4. Check downdetector.com for your ISP
5. Call your ISP’s support line
6. Some modems have diagnostic lights showing WAN status
7. Wait for ISP to resolve if there’s an outage

Preventing Future Ethernet Issues

• Use quality Ethernet cables (Cat5e or Cat6)
• Avoid running cables near power lines or interference sources
• Keep router firmware updated
• Don’t bend Ethernet cables at sharp angles
• Consider a UPS for your router to prevent power-related issues

FAQ

Why does Ethernet say connected if there’s no internet?

“Connected” means your computer has a physical link to the router and received an IP address. Internet access requires the router to successfully connect to your ISP. The issue is between your router and ISP, or with IP/DNS settings.

Is Ethernet more reliable than WiFi?

Yes, Ethernet provides a stable, consistent connection without interference. If you’re having persistent WiFi issues, switching to Ethernet often solves them. Ethernet also typically offers faster speeds.

Why does my Ethernet work on one computer but not another?

This indicates a computer-specific issue rather than router/ISP problems. Check network adapter settings, drivers, and firewall settings on the non-working computer. Try the fixes in this guide on that specific machine.

Can a bad Ethernet cable cause no internet?

Yes, damaged cables can cause intermittent or no connectivity. Cables can be damaged internally without visible signs. Try a different cable to rule this out – cables are inexpensive to replace.

Why do I have to restart my router so often?

Frequent router restarts may indicate router overheating, outdated firmware, or the router being overwhelmed by too many devices. Update firmware and consider upgrading if the router is old.

Should I call my ISP for this issue?

Try the fixes in this guide first. If nothing works and other devices also lack internet, or if your modem shows no WAN/internet light, contact your ISP as the issue may be on their end.