WiFi Not Working? Complete Troubleshooting Guide for Home & Office

Complete WiFi Troubleshooting Guide

WiFi problems are frustrating, especially during work or online classes. Follow this systematic guide to diagnose and fix your WiFi issues.

Step 1: Identify the Problem

First, determine the scope:
- Is it just your device, or all devices?
- Is the internet completely out, or just slow?
- Did it happen after a change (new device, router moved, etc.)?

Step 2: Basic Fixes First

Restart everything:
1. Turn off your modem/router for 30 seconds
2. Turn off your computer/phone
3. Turn on modem first, wait 2 minutes
4. Turn on router, wait 1 minute
5. Turn on your device

This fixes 60% of WiFi issues.

Step 3: Check Physical Connections

- Is the ethernet cable from your ISP connected properly to the modem?
- Are all indicator lights green on your router?
- Is the WiFi antenna positioned upright?

Step 4: Forget and Reconnect

On Windows: Settings > Network > WiFi > Manage Known Networks > Forget your network. Then reconnect with the password.

Step 5: Check IP Address

Open Command Prompt and type "ipconfig". If you see 169.254.x.x, your device isn't getting an IP from the router — this is a DHCP issue.

Step 6: Update WiFi Drivers

Go to Device Manager > Network Adapters > Right-click your WiFi adapter > Update Driver.

Step 7: Change DNS Servers

Try Google DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1). Go to Network Adapter Settings > IPv4 > Use these DNS servers.

Step 8: Check Router Settings

Log into your router (usually 192.168.1.1). Check:
- WiFi is enabled
- Your network isn't hidden
- MAC filtering isn't blocking your device
- DHCP server is enabled

Still Not Working?

If none of the above works, the issue could be:
- Faulty router (needs replacement)
- ISP line issue (call your ISP)
- WiFi adapter failure in your device
- Physical interference from other devices

Contact Green Touch Solutions for professional network diagnosis and repair!