Troubleshooting No Internet Connection Problems Following Router Reset

Key Notes

  • Check all physical connections to the router and modem.
  • Performing a power cycle can refresh configurations.
  • Updating router firmware is essential for connectivity.

Troubleshooting No Internet Access Following a Router Reset

Resetting your router is often a first step in resolving connectivity issues, yet it can inadvertently cause the lack of Internet access. This guide provides practical troubleshooting steps specifically aimed at restoring Internet connectivity after a reset.

Solutions for Restoring Internet Access

When you face no Internet connectivity after resetting your router (such as TP-Link or CISCO), follow these systematic steps:

Step 1: Check Physical Connections

Start by verifying all physical connections, as loose or disconnected cables can prevent connectivity. Ensure that all Ethernet and power cables are securely connected to both the modem and router. If you have a separate modem and router, check that the core network cable connects to the modem’s WAN or Internet port and the router’s WAN port.

Step 2: Power Cycle Your Router

Disconnect the power supply to your router, wait for about one minute, and then plug everything back in. This power cycle will refresh the router’s configurations and can resolve many connectivity problems.

Step 3: Reconfigure Router Settings

To ensure the router connects properly to your ISP:

  1. Open a web browser and enter your router’s IP address, which is usually located on a sticker on the device.
  2. Log in using the default credentials (often admin/admin).
  3. Adjust the connection settings according to your ISP’s requirements.

Pro Tip: Always reboot your router after making any configuration changes to apply the new settings.

Step 4: Update Your Router Firmware

Ensure your router’s firmware is up to date by following these steps:

  1. Visit the manufacturer’s website and find the support page for your router model.
  2. Download the latest firmware version available.
  3. From the router settings page, find the Upgrade of Firmware option to upload and update the firmware.

Step 5: Reset the Network Settings on Your Computer

If a single computer can’t connect to the Internet following the reset, you may need to reset its network settings:

  1. Press Win + I to open the Settings menu.
  2. Navigate to Network & Internet, then go to Advanced Network settings.
  3. Click on Network Reset and confirm the action to reset the computer’s network settings.

Step 6: Reset Network Protocols

Opening the Command Prompt as an administrator allows you to reset the network protocols: 

netsh int ip reset netsh winsock reset ipconfig /flushdns

After executing these commands, check your Internet connection.

Step 7: Switch to Google Public DNS

In case of DNS issues, switching to Google Public DNS can help:

  1. Open the Control Panel and navigate to Network & Sharing Center.
  2. Click on your connection, select Properties, then choose Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
  3. Select the option to use custom DNS addresses and input Preferred DNS Server: 8.8.8.8 and Alternate DNS Server: 8.8.4.4.

By executing these steps, you should be able to restore your Internet access after a router reset.