Why Your Wi-Fi Keeps Dropping and How to Fix It

Intermittent Wi-Fi is frustrating because the cause can be in three different places. Narrow it down first.

Who is affected?

If every device in the home struggles, look at the router or your internet provider. If only one device struggles, look at that device.

Basic resets

Switch the router and modem off for thirty seconds, then on again. Wait a few minutes for the lights to settle, then restart your computer.

Check your computer

• Make sure airplane mode is off.
• Forget the network and reconnect with the password.
• Run the Windows network troubleshooter from Settings.
• Turn off any power-saving option for the Wi-Fi adapter in Device Manager, under its Power Management tab.

Improve the signal

• Move closer or remove obstacles such as thick walls, mirrors and metal.
• Raise the router and place it in a central position.
• Use the 5 GHz band for speed at close range, and 2.4 GHz for reach.
• Change the Wi-Fi channel if neighbours' networks crowd yours.

Update software

Update the Wi-Fi driver from your computer maker's support page and check for router firmware updates.

Try a cable

Plug in an Ethernet cable. If the cable connection is stable, the problem is wireless. If it is also unreliable, suspect the router or your provider.

Sites will not load but Wi-Fi shows connected

Try flushing DNS by running ipconfig /flushdns in Command Prompt, or set a different DNS service in your adapter settings.

Call your provider

If every device on a cable also has trouble, check the provider's service status page or call them. Mention the times the problem happens and what you have already tried.

Consider hardware

A very old router or a long distance from it may call for a newer router, a mesh system or a wired access point.

This guide is general information, not professional advice. Menus, features and prices change between versions and regions. See our disclaimer.