Are you facing the pesky Windows 11 Limited Connectivity problem? This can disrupt your online work, streaming, gaming, or just general browsing. Don’t worry — you’re not alone, and it’s usually fixable! In this guide, I’ll walk you through practical, easy-to-follow steps to restore your full internet access on Windows 11.
What Does “Limited Connectivity” Mean on Windows 11?
When your PC shows Limited Connectivity or No Internet Access, it means your device is connected to a network but cannot reach the internet. This could be due to issues with the router, your PC’s settings, or even your internet service provider.
Why Is My Windows 11 Showing Limited Connectivity?
- Incorrect IP or DNS settings
- Router or modem malfunction
- Outdated or corrupted network drivers
- Network configuration errors
- Problems with Wi-Fi or Ethernet cables
- Temporary glitches in Windows Network Stack
How to Fix Windows 11 Limited Connectivity — Step by Step
1. Restart Your Router and PC
Simple but often effective!
- Turn off your router/modem.
- Wait 30 seconds.
- Turn it back on and wait for all lights to stabilize.
- Restart your computer.
- Check if your internet is working.
2. Run the Network Troubleshooter
Windows 11 has an inbuilt troubleshooter that can pinpoint and automatically fix problems.
- Press Win + I to open Settings.
- Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Under “Network adapters,” click Run.
- Follow on-screen instructions.
3. Reset Network Settings to Default
If settings are misconfigured, resetting them will refresh everything.
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings.
- Scroll down and click Network reset.
- Select Reset now, then confirm.
- Your PC will restart. Check your connectivity afterward.
4. Release and Renew Your IP Address
Refreshing your IP address can clear network issues.
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Search for Command Prompt, right-click it, and select Run as administrator.
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Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /flushdns
ipconfig /renew -
Close Command Prompt and try reconnecting.
5. Update or Reinstall Network Drivers
Outdated or corrupt drivers can cause limited connectivity.
- Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand Network adapters.
- Right-click your Wi-Fi or Ethernet adapter and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers.
- If that doesn’t help, right-click the adapter, select Uninstall device, then restart your PC to reinstall drivers automatically.
6. Check Your DNS Settings
Sometimes DNS servers cause connection delays or problems.
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Open Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi (or Ethernet) > Hardware properties.
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Click Edit under DNS server assignment.
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Select Manual, turn on IPv4, and enter:
- Preferred DNS:
8.8.8.8
- Alternate DNS:
8.8.4.4
(These are Google’s public DNS servers.)
- Preferred DNS:
-
Save and reconnect.
7. Disable IPv6 (If Necessary)
Sometimes disabling IPv6 solves modern connectivity quirks.
- Type Control Panel in Search and open it.
- Select Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings.
- Right-click your Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection, then click Properties.
- Uncheck Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6).
- Click OK and restart your PC.
Final Thoughts
Tackling the Windows 11 Limited Connectivity error can feel frustrating, but most of the time, the fix is within reach with a few tweaks. Start with the simple restarts and Windows troubleshooters, then move on to network resets and driver updates. If all else fails, contacting your ISP may uncover broader outages or issues.
Stay patient and follow the steps carefully — your full internet access will be back before you know it.
Need More Help?
If this guide helped you or if you have questions, feel free to leave a comment. Sharing your experience can also help others encountering the same frustration.
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Happy surfing with your fixed Windows 11!