Practical guide

Ethernet Connected but No Internet: What to Check

An Ethernet icon can indicate a cable link without confirming internet access. Test each part of the path before changing adapter settings.

What to do

  1. Reseat both ends of the Ethernet cable and check the router and computer link lights. Try a known-working cable or router port if available.
  2. Test another device on the same router and check whether Wi-Fi works. This helps distinguish a PC issue from a router or provider outage.
  3. Open Windows Settings > Network & internet > Ethernet and check status. In Command Prompt, ipconfig can show whether the adapter received an address.
  4. Restart the PC and, if safe for others, the router. If it remains broken, capture the status and error before considering adapter or driver changes.

Checks and limitations

  • Do not assign a random static IP address; incorrect network settings can disconnect the device or conflict with another device.
  • On a work network, contact IT before changing adapter properties.