Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesiTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
“Unable to connect” can mean a device cannot join the wireless network, or that it joined Wi-Fi but cannot reach the internet. Start with reversible checks, then compare devices and networks: that quickly shows whether to focus on one device, the router, or the internet service.
First identify what is failing
Check the exact status on the affected phone or computer. If it cannot join the network, investigate Wi-Fi settings, the saved password, signal, compatibility, and the router. If it says it is connected but has no internet, the device may be communicating with the router while the modem or internet service is having trouble.
Use two comparisons to narrow the cause: try another device on the same Wi-Fi, and try the affected device on another Wi-Fi network. If other devices connect but the affected one does not, concentrate on that device. If multiple devices fail on the same network, look at the router, modem, or ISP.
Try the quick, reversible checks first
- Confirm Wi-Fi is on and Airplane Mode is off. Check the device’s Wi-Fi control and Airplane Mode setting. On iPhone or iPad, if the Wi-Fi control is greyed out, Apple recommends restarting the device. Apple’s Wi-Fi troubleshooting guide covers those checks.
- Reconnect to the intended network. Select the right network and enter its current password. A changed router password can make a previously saved connection fail. On Windows, use the network’s Forget option and reconnect if the saved connection may be stale; on Apple devices, forgetting removes the saved password. Apple notes that managed or supervised devices may restrict this action, and iCloud Keychain can sync the change to other devices on the same Apple Account. See Apple’s instructions for forgetting a Wi-Fi network.
- Move closer to the router. A weak signal, obstruction, or distance can prevent a stable connection. If the network does not appear at all, confirm the router is on and that you are within range.
- Restart the affected device. This is a simple way to clear a temporary connection problem before changing network configuration.
If the Wi-Fi network is missing or will not accept the connection
Check whether the network is visible and supported
Some networks are hidden or restricted, and some devices do not support every Wi-Fi frequency band. If the router provides separate bands, try another available band that the device supports. Microsoft and Apple both recommend checking band compatibility when connection problems persist. Follow the router maker’s instructions for confirming whether the network is hidden or changing its settings.
#1 Best Overall
- DUAL-BAND WIFI 6 ROUTER: Wi-Fi 6(802.11ax) technology achieves faster speeds, greater capacity and reduced network congestion compared to the previous gen. All WiFi routers require a separate modem. Dual-Band WiFi routers do not support the 6 GHz band.
- AX1800: Enjoy smoother and more stable streaming, gaming, downloading with 1.8 Gbps total bandwidth (up to 1200 Mbps on 5 GHz and up to 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz). Performance varies by conditions, distance to devices, and obstacles such as walls.
- CONNECT MORE DEVICES: Wi-Fi 6 technology communicates more data to more devices simultaneously using revolutionary OFDMA technology
- EXTENSIVE COVERAGE: Achieve the strong, reliable WiFi coverage with Archer AX1800 as it focuses signal strength to your devices far away using Beamforming technology, 4 high-gain antennas and an advanced front-end module (FEM) chipset
- OUR CYBERSECURITY COMMITMENT: TP-Link is a signatory of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) Secure-by-Design pledge. This device is designed, built, and maintained, with advanced security as a core requirement.
Use the device-versus-network test
- Only one device fails on this Wi-Fi: Recheck its Wi-Fi and Airplane Mode settings, credentials, and any recent software or network changes. On a Windows PC, investigate the wireless adapter and its driver after the simpler checks.
- The device fails on multiple Wi-Fi networks: The issue is more likely on the device. Apple advises contacting Apple if an iPhone or iPad cannot connect to any Wi-Fi network.
- Several devices fail on this Wi-Fi: The shared router, modem, network configuration, or internet service is a stronger suspect. For a work or school network, contact its administrator rather than changing managed settings.
For Windows 10 or 11, Microsoft recommends using its built-in troubleshooting help and checking the Wi-Fi and Airplane Mode settings. Exact settings paths and labels can differ between Windows releases. Google’s Android connectivity guidance advises checking Wi-Fi and mobile-data state and moving closer to the router; Settings labels vary among Android versions and manufacturers.
If it connects to Wi-Fi but has no internet
Wi-Fi is the local wireless link between the device and router; internet access also depends on the modem and the ISP’s service. Test another device on the same network. If all devices lack internet, check the modem/router and whether the ISP reports an outage. If only one device has the problem, focus on its network settings or software.
Rank #2
- Dual-band Wi-Fi with 5 GHz speeds up to 867 Mbps and 2.4 GHz speeds up to 300 Mbps, delivering 1200 Mbps of total bandwidth¹. Dual-band routers do not support 6 GHz. Performance varies by conditions, distance to devices, and obstacles such as walls.
- Covers up to 1,000 sq. ft. with four external antennas for stable wireless connections and optimal coverage.
- Supports IGMP Proxy/Snooping, Bridge and Tag VLAN to optimize IPTV streaming
- Access Point Mode - Supports AP Mode to transform your wired connection into wireless network, an ideal wireless router for home
- Advanced Security with WPA3 - The latest Wi-Fi security protocol, WPA3, brings new capabilities to improve cybersecurity in personal networks
A wired Ethernet test can help isolate the wireless side. Microsoft says that if a PC can access the internet over Ethernet, the connection problem is due to the Wi-Fi router; treat this as a troubleshooting clue, not a guarantee for every network setup. If the PC has no Ethernet port, Microsoft notes that a USB-to-Ethernet adapter may let you try a wired connection. It is an optional diagnostic aid, not a Wi-Fi repair.
Windows users can also test whether the PC can reach the router using Microsoft’s guidance for pinging the default gateway. A reply shows the PC can reach the router, but does not prove the modem or ISP is working.
Rank #3
- NIGHTHAWK WIFI 6 ROUTER FOR YOUR WHOLE HOME: Delivers fast, reliable WiFi across every room of your apartment or small home for streaming, gaming, video calls, and smart home devices, all running at the same time without slowing each other down.
- WORKS WITH YOUR EXISTING INTERNET SERVICE: Pairs with your existing modem or gateway via ethernet. Compatible with most cable, fiber, DSL, and satellite providers. Some gateways and modem router combos may require bridge mode. No coax needed.
- SET UP AND MANAGE YOUR NETWORK WITH THE NIGHTHAWK APP: Download the free Nighthawk app on iOS or Android for guided setup. Manage WiFi, run speed tests, pause devices, and set up guest networks from anywhere. Active internet required.
- READY FOR THE DEVICES YOU ALREADY OWN: Your phones, laptops, and TVs work right out of the box. WiFi 6 delivers speeds up to 1.8 Gbps across 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. Backward compatible with WiFi 5 and earlier.
- COVERAGE IN EVERY ROOM: Covers up to 1,500 sq. ft. for up to 20 connected devices. Walls, floors, and interference can reduce range. Larger or multi-story homes may benefit from a NETGEAR Orbi mesh WiFi system.
Restart the modem and router safely
Restarting network equipment can refresh a stuck connection, but it temporarily disconnects everyone using that Wi-Fi. Follow the equipment maker’s restart instructions. Microsoft’s generic sequence is to unplug the modem and router, wait at least about 30 seconds, restart the modem and let it settle, then restart the router. Indicator lights and startup times vary by equipment.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Save resets and driver changes for later
Use more disruptive steps only after checking settings, credentials, signal, and other devices. On Windows, Microsoft lists adapter-driver checks and network reset as later troubleshooting steps. Network reset removes and reinstalls network adapters and restores network settings; VPN or virtual-network software may need to be set up again afterward.
Rank #4
- 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞-𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝐖𝐢-𝐅𝐢 𝟕 - Designed with the latest Wi-Fi 7 technology, featuring Multi-Link Operation (MLO), Multi-RUs, and 4K-QAM. Achieve optimized performance on latest WiFi 7 laptops and devices, like the iPhone 16 Pro, and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.
- 𝟔-𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦, 𝐃𝐮𝐚𝐥-𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐖𝐢-𝐅𝐢 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝟔.𝟓 𝐆𝐛𝐩𝐬 𝐓𝐨𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐰𝐢𝐝𝐭𝐡 - Achieve full speeds of up to 5764 Mbps on the 5GHz band and 688 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band with 6 streams. Enjoy seamless 4K/8K streaming, AR/VR gaming, and incredibly fast downloads/uploads.
- 𝐖𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 - Get up to 2,400 sq. ft. max coverage for up to 90 devices at a time. 6x high performance antennas and Beamforming technology, ensures reliable connections for remote workers, gamers, students, and more.
- 𝐔𝐥𝐭𝐫𝐚-𝐅𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝟐.𝟓 𝐆𝐛𝐩𝐬 𝐖𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 - 1x 2.5 Gbps WAN/LAN port, 1x 2.5 Gbps LAN port and 3x 1 Gbps LAN ports offer high-speed data transmissions.³ Integrate with a multi-gig modem for gigplus internet.
- 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐂𝐲𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 - TP-Link is a signatory of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) Secure-by-Design pledge. This device is designed, built, and maintained, with advanced security as a core requirement.
On iPhone or iPad, reset network settings only after other solutions fail. Apple warns that this removes saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords as well as cellular, VPN, and APN settings. If the device belongs to a school or workplace, ask IT before resetting. Router firmware updates and advanced configuration changes should follow the router maker’s documentation.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Dual band router upgrades to 1200 Mbps high speed internet (300mbps for 2.4GHz plus 900Mbps for 5GHz), reducing buffering and ideal for 4K stream
- Full Gigabit Ports - Gigabit Router with 4 Gigabit LAN ports, ideal for any internet plan and allow you to directly connect your wired devices
- Boosted Coverage - Four external antennas equipped with Beamforming technology extend and concentrate the Wi-Fi signals
- MU-MIMO technology - (5GHz band) allows high speeds for multiple devices simultaneously
- Access Point Mode - Supports AP Mode to transform your wired connection into wireless network, an ideal wireless router for home
When to contact support
- ISP or network administrator: Contact them when multiple devices are affected on the same network or an outage is suspected. For managed work or school Wi-Fi, contact its administrator.
- Device maker: Contact the manufacturer if one device cannot join any Wi-Fi network after the basic checks.
- Router maker: Consult its instructions for firmware, band, and advanced router settings, especially when the problem affects multiple devices.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
