How to Reset Network Adapter Settings in Windows 11 or 10?
A stable internet connection is essential for work, communication, and entertainment. However, users often face connectivity problems such as slow internet, limited access, WiFi disconnects, or Ethernet not working properly. In many cases, these issues are caused by misconfigured network settings, outdated drivers, or corrupted network cache.
Resetting the network adapter settings is one of the most effective ways to fix internet problems in both Windows 11 and Windows 10. It restores all networking components to their default state and removes custom configurations that might be causing conflicts. This process can resolve problems with WiFi, Ethernet, VPN, and other network-related settings.
Let’s learn how to reset network adapter settings in Windows 11 or 10, and resolve such kind of problems!.
How to Reset Network Adapter Settings?
Resetting network adapter settings in Windows means restoring all networking components, such as WiFi, Ethernet, VPN, and DNS settings to their original default state. This process removes saved networks, clears custom configurations, and reinstalls network adapters automatically.
Below is a detailed step-by-step guide to perform a complete network adapter reset.
Step 1: Open Windows Settings
The first step is to open the Settings app on your Windows computer. You can do this by pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard. This shortcut directly launches the Settings window.
Alternatively, click on the Start menu and select the Settings icon. Once the Settings window opens, you will see several categories such as System, Devices, Network and Internet, and more.
Select the Network and Internet option to access all networking-related settings.
Step 2: Navigate to Advanced Network Settings
Inside the Network and Internet section, scroll down until you find the Advanced network settings option. This section contains tools for troubleshooting and resetting network configurations.
Click on Advanced network settings to open more options. Here you will see a section called More settings, which includes the Network reset feature.
This option is available in both Windows 11 and Windows 10, although the layout may look slightly different depending on your system version.
Step 3: Select the Network Reset Option
Once you open Advanced network settings, look for the Network reset option. Click on it to proceed.
A new screen will appear explaining what happens during a network reset. It informs you that all network adapters will be removed and reinstalled, and other networking components will be set back to default settings.
Read this information carefully so you understand the impact of resetting network settings. If you are ready to continue, proceed to the next step.
Step 4: Click Reset Now
On the Network reset page, you will see a button labeled Reset now. Click this button to begin the process.
Windows will show a confirmation message asking if you are sure you want to reset network settings. Click Yes to confirm.
After confirmation, Windows will begin removing network adapters and resetting all networking components. Your computer will automatically restart within a few minutes.
Make sure you save any open files or work before continuing because the restart will close all applications.
Step 5: Restart and Reconnect to the Internet
After the reset process is complete, your system will restart automatically. Windows will reinstall network adapters and restore default network settings.
Once your computer turns on, connect to your WiFi network again by entering the password. If you use Ethernet, plug in the cable, and Windows should detect the connection automatically.
You may also need to reconfigure VPN settings, proxy settings, or static IP addresses if you were using them before the reset.
At this point, your network adapter settings have been successfully reset, and most connectivity issues should be resolved.
Reset Network Adapter Settings Using Command Prompt
If the Settings method does not work, you can reset network components using Command Prompt. This method is useful for advanced troubleshooting.
Open the Start menu and search for Command Prompt. Right-click on it and choose Run as administrator.
In the Command Prompt window, type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each command.
Type netsh winsock reset and press Enter.
Type netsh int ip reset and press Enter.
Type ipconfig /release and press Enter.
Type ipconfig /renew and press Enter.
Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
After entering these commands, restart your computer. These commands reset network sockets, IP configurations, and DNS cache, which can fix many internet-related issues.
When Should You Reset Network Adapter Settings?
Resetting network adapter settings is helpful in several situations. If your WiFi keeps disconnecting, internet speed is unusually slow, or your computer shows limited connectivity, a network reset can help.
It is also useful when you cannot connect to the internet after installing updates, changing network settings, or installing VPN software. In such cases, corrupted configurations may prevent proper connectivity.
However, you should only reset network settings when basic troubleshooting, such as restarting the router or updating drivers, does not work.
What Happens After Network Reset?
After performing a network reset, Windows removes all network adapters and reinstalls them. All saved WiFi networks and passwords are deleted. VPN and proxy settings are also removed.
Your computer returns to its default network configuration, just like when you first installed Windows. This clean setup helps eliminate configuration errors and restores normal connectivity.
You may need to reconnect to networks and reconfigure custom settings after the reset is complete.
FAQs
Is it safe to reset network adapter settings in Windows?
Yes, it is completely safe to reset network adapter settings. It only affects networking components and does not delete personal files or installed applications.
Will a network reset delete WiFi passwords?
Yes, all saved WiFi networks and passwords will be removed after the reset. You will need to reconnect to your WiFi network by entering the password again.
Does a network reset fix internet problems?
In most cases, a network reset can fix common internet problems such as limited connectivity, DNS errors, and network adapter issues. It restores default settings and removes corrupted configurations.
How long does a network reset take?
The reset process usually takes a few minutes. Your computer will restart automatically, and network adapters will be reinstalled during startup.
Can I undo a network reset?
There is no direct undo option. However, you can reconnect to networks and reconfigure settings manually after the reset.
Summary
- Open Settings using Windows key + I
- Go to Network and Internet
- Click Advanced network settings
- Select Network reset
- Click Reset now and confirm
- Restart your computer
- Reconnect to WiFi or Ethernet