Windows maintains a network stack — a collection of settings, protocols, and drivers that handle all internet communication. After enough troubleshooting, driver changes, VPN installs, or software conflicts, this stack can end up in an inconsistent state. Resetting it brings everything back to a clean default.

Option 1: Network Reset in Windows Settings (Simplest)

This is the easiest approach and the best one to try first.

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Network & Internet.
  3. Scroll down and click Advanced network settings (Windows 11) or Status (Windows 10).
  4. Click Network reset.
  5. Read the warning — this will remove all network adapters and reset all networking components. Click Reset now and confirm.
  6. Windows will restart automatically. After the restart, you will need to reconnect to Wi-Fi and re-enter any passwords.

Note: VPN clients and any custom network software will also be removed and need to be reinstalled.

Option 2: Command Line Reset (Targeted)

If you want a more targeted reset without removing everything, use these commands in an administrator Command Prompt. Run each line separately and press Enter after each:

netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /flushdns
ipconfig /renew

Restart your computer after all commands complete.

What Gets Reset

  • Network Reset: Removes all network adapters, clears all saved Wi-Fi passwords, removes VPN and proxy settings, resets firewall rules to default.
  • Command line reset: Resets the IP stack and Winsock catalogue, clears the DNS cache, and requests a new IP address. Saved Wi-Fi passwords and adapters remain.

After the Reset

Reconnect to Wi-Fi, re-enter passwords, and reinstall any VPN or proxy software you need. If the internet still does not work after a full network reset, the issue is almost certainly outside Windows — in the router, modem, or ISP. Ask us and we can help you figure out the next step.