How to Reset Your Internet Settings in Windows

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Sometimes, network issues on Windows PCs are caused by corrupted settings, misconfigured protocols, or software conflicts. Resetting your internet settings can restore connectivity and resolve problems like “No Internet Connection,” slow browsing, or limited access. This guide explains how to safely reset internet settings in Windows step by step.

When Should You Reset Internet Settings?

Consider resetting your internet settings if you experience:

  1. Frequent disconnections or unstable network connections.
  2. Web pages not loading properly despite working networks on other devices.
  3. Browser errors caused by misconfigured network or proxy settings.
  4. Problems with DNS resolution or IP conflicts.
  5. Malware or software changes that have modified network configurations.

Step 1: Reset Network Settings (Windows 10/11)

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Navigate to Network & Internet → Status.
  3. Scroll down and click Network reset.
  4. Click Reset now, then confirm.
  5. Your PC will restart, and all network adapters will be reinstalled.
  6. Reconnect to your Wi-Fi or Ethernet and check connectivity.

Note: This resets all network adapters and clears saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords.

Step 2: Reset TCP/IP Stack

TCP/IP stack corruption can cause connection issues.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (Windows + X → Command Prompt (Admin) or PowerShell).
  2. Run the following commands one by one: 
    netsh int ip reset
netsh winsock reset
ipconfig /flushdns
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
  3. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

Step 3: Reset Proxy Settings

Incorrect proxy configurations can block internet access.

  1. Open Settings → Network & Internet → Proxy.
  2. Ensure Use a proxy server is turned off unless required for work or school networks.
  3. Enable Automatically detect settings.

Step 4: Reset Browser Settings (Optional)

Browsers may have misconfigured settings affecting internet access.

For Microsoft Edge:

  • Go to Settings → Reset settings → Restore settings to their default values.

For Google Chrome:

  • Go to Settings → Advanced → Reset and clean up → Restore settings to their original defaults.

For Mozilla Firefox:

  • Go to Help → Troubleshooting Information → Refresh Firefox.

This step clears cached network configurations and resolves browser-specific connectivity issues.

Step 5: Disable VPNs and Firewalls Temporarily

  • VPNs or firewall software can interfere with connections.
  • Temporarily disable them and check if connectivity improves.
  • Re-enable them once testing is complete.

Step 6: Reconnect and Test Your Network

  • Reconnect to your Wi-Fi or plug in your Ethernet cable.
  • Open a browser and test websites.
  • Run a speed test to ensure proper connectivity.

Tips for Maintaining Stable Internet Settings

  1. Keep Windows and network drivers updated.
  2. Avoid changing advanced network settings unless necessary.
  3. Regularly scan for malware that can alter network configurations.
  4. Backup network profiles if you frequently reset settings.
  5. Use a reliable DNS provider, like Google DNS or Cloudflare, for faster resolution.

Conclusion

Resetting your internet settings in Windows can fix connectivity issues, restore default configurations, and resolve misconfigured adapters or protocols. By following steps like network reset, TCP/IP stack reset, proxy adjustment, and browser configuration, you can ensure your system has a clean, functional network setup.

Regular maintenance and monitoring of network settings help keep your internet connection stable, fast, and reliable.

Also Read : 

  1. How to Fix “No Internet Connection Issues
  2. How to Fix Internet Issues on Your Amazon Fire Stick or Roku
  3. Streaming & Smart Device Internet Issues

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