How to Fix Hotspot Issues on Windows 11 Without Internet Connection

Key Notes

  • Restarting the router may resolve connectivity issues.
  • Disabling VPNs can restore proper internet connectivity.
  • Utilize the built-in troubleshooter for diagnosing network issues.

Troubleshooting Hotspot Connections Without Internet on Windows 11

Are you unable to access the internet despite being connected to a hotspot on your Windows 11 device? This guide will help you identify and resolve the issue effectively.

Resolving Hotspot Connectivity Problems on Windows 11

Step 1: Verify Your Router and Contact Your ISP

  1. Restart your router. Use the dedicated button to power it off or unplug it. Wait a minimum of 10 seconds before powering it back on.
  2. Observe the router post-restart for any red lights under LED indicators.
  3. If there are blinking red lights, ensure all cables are correctly connected.
  4. Should the issue persist, contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to inquire about any potential outages in your area.
  5. Confirm that your data plan is active and functioning.

Step 2: Disable Any VPN Services

If you are currently using a VPN on Windows 11, temporarily disable it to see if your internet connection is restored. VPNs can sometimes interfere with network connectivity.

Additionally, if a VPN is set up on your router, disable that as well and confirm whether other devices can connect to the hotspot successfully.

Step 3: Utilize the Network Troubleshooter

  1. Press Win + I to launch the Settings menu.
  2. Navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Locate Network and Internet and click on Run to initiate the troubleshooter. Follow on-screen prompts to diagnose and resolve issues.

Step 4: Inspect Hosted Network Settings

  1. Type cmd into the Windows Search bar, then right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  2. Input the command: netsh wlan show hostednetwork and press Enter.
  3. Ensure the hosted network mode is set to Allowed. If it isn’t, enable it using: netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow.

Step 5: Reset Your Network Settings

  1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
  2. Select Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset.
  3. Click Reset now and confirm. This will restore all network adapters and settings to their default configurations.

Pro Tip: Resetting network settings can resolve issues caused by misconfigurations or third-party applications.

Step 6: Flush DNS Cache and Reset TCP/IP Configurations

  1. Access Command Prompt with administrator privileges by searching for cmd, right-clicking, and selecting Run as administrator.
  2. Execute the following commands one at a time by pressing Enter after each:
    • ipconfig /flushdns
    • ipconfig /release
    • ipconfig /renew
    • netsh int ip reset
    • netsh winsock reset

This process flushes the DNS cache, renews your IP address, and resets TCP/IP which assists in clearing any blocked connections.

If your router is functioning correctly, the above solutions should assist you in resolving the hotspot without internet issue on your Windows 11 device. If problems persist, the issue likely lies with the router or ISP, so consider the first solution as your priority.

Additional Recommendations

  • Always verify your backup connections before troubleshooting.
  • Make sure to sign out of any cloud services if necessary.
  • Consider using dedicated network diagnostic tools for deeper analysis.

Summary

This guide provided step-by-step instructions to fix hotspot connectivity issues on Windows 11, emphasizing verifying router functions, troubleshooting with built-in tools, and adjusting network settings.

Conclusion

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to tackle the hotspot connectivity issues effectively. Remember, consistent maintenance and updates can prevent such problems from arising in the future.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What should I do if other devices can connect to the hotspot but my Windows 11 PC can’t?

Try running the network troubleshooter or resetting your network settings as outlined in the guide above.

How can I know if my hotspot is causing the internet issues?

Test the hotspot connection with other devices. If they connect without issues, the problem likely lies with your Windows 11 device itself.