How can I get my WiFi to connect to the internet?
If you are having trouble getting your computer to connect to the internet over Wi-Fi, follow the steps below to identify and resolve the issue.
1. Confirm That Wireless Hardware Is Working
- Check whether your computer detects nearby wireless networks.
- If you see a list of network names (SSIDs), your wireless hardware is functioning correctly.
- If no networks appear, your wireless card may be disabled or there may be a hardware problem.
- Try pressing the Wi-Fi key (usually
Fn + F2, F3, or F10 depending on your model). - If the issue persists, please contact Acer Customer Support for assistance.
2. Restart Your Modem and Router
- Ensure all cables are securely connected to your modem and router.
- Power cycle both devices:
- Unplug the power from both your modem and router.
- Wait 10 seconds.
- Plug them back in and wait a minute for them to restart.
- Open a web browser and try accessing a webpage to check your connection.
3. Check Router Security and Settings
- Make sure your wireless security settings are compatible with your device.
- If you're using WPA3 and experiencing issues, try switching to WPA2 or WEP (temporarily, for testing).
- You can also temporarily disable Wi-Fi security to test if security settings are the cause.
- Look for firmware updates on your router manufacturer's website.
- Research if there are known compatibility issues with your router model.
4. Update Wireless Drivers
Outdated or corrupt drivers can prevent your system from connecting properly.
- Visit Acer Support.
- Click Support then select Drivers and Manuals.
- Enter your Serial Number, SNID or Model Number.
- Click on Drivers.
- Locate the latest wireless driver for you device, then click the Download link to the right of the driver.
- Unzip the file and run the executable (.exe) file.
- Follow on-screen instructions to install the driver, then restart your computer.
5. Run the Windows Network Troubleshooter
Before making deeper changes to your system, try using Windows' built-in troubleshooting tool:
- Press
Windows + I to open Settings. - Go to Network & Internet > Status.
- Click Network Troubleshooter and follow the prompts.
This tool can automatically detect and fix common network problems.
6. Disable Antivirus or Interfering Software
- Some antivirus or firewall programs can block network connectivity.
- Temporarily disable your antivirus software and try connecting again.
- If disabling it resolves the issue, consider configuring it or switching to a different solution.
⚠️ Important: Always ensure your device remains protected when testing without antivirus.
7. Try Connecting to a Different Network
- Try connecting to Wi-Fi at a different location (e.g., a coffee shop, library, or mobile hotspot).
- If your device works elsewhere, the issue may lie with your home network or router configuration.
8. Scan for Viruses or Malware
- Malicious software can disrupt internet connectivity.
- Use a reputable antivirus or anti-malware tool to perform a full system scan and remove any threats.
9. Reset Network Settings (Winsock and TCP/IP Reset)
You can reset network components to their default state and can resolve persistent or unusual connectivity issues using a windsock and TCP/IP reset.
- Type CMD in the Start menu.
- Right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
- Type the following commands and press Enter after you type each line.
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns
Note: You will need to restart your computer for all changes to take effect.
