Why Is My Ethernet Not Working? Causes, Fixes & Pro Tips

Updated on July 23, 2025, by Xcitium

Have you ever plugged in your Ethernet cable expecting a fast, reliable internet connection—only to find it’s not working? If you’re wondering, “Why is my Ethernet not working but Wi-Fi is?” or you’re seeing a message like “Ethernet not connected but plugged in”, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through the common reasons Ethernet fails to connect and show you step-by-step how to resolve it—whether you’re using Windows 10, Windows 11, or another system.

🚨 Common Symptoms of Ethernet Not Working

Before jumping to solutions, identify the symptoms you may be experiencing:

No internet access despite Ethernet cable being plugged in
Ethernet works intermittently, while Wi-Fi is stable
Windows 11 shows “Ethernet not connected” error
Ethernet port LED lights not blinking
IP address not assigned

Each of these symptoms can point to different root causes, from software misconfigurations to hardware failures.

🔍 Why Is My Ethernet Not Working?

1. 🧩 Ethernet Cable Issues

The simplest reason? A damaged or poorly connected Ethernet cable. Even a slight kink or fray in the wire can interrupt your signal.

2. ⚙️ Network Adapter Problems

A corrupt or outdated network driver can lead to “Ethernet not working Windows 11” scenarios. Device Manager may even show a yellow exclamation point.

3. 🔌 Loose Port or Broken Port

Check the Ethernet port on your PC or router. A loose port connection might prevent signal flow.

4. ❌ IP Configuration Errors

You may be connected, but if your IP address settings are incorrect, the system won’t access the internet. This is often seen in “Ethernet cable connected but no internet” complaints.

5. 🧱 Firewall or Antivirus Blocking

Some security software can block Ethernet traffic, confusing it for an untrusted connection—especially after updates.

🛠️ How to Fix: Step-by-Step Guide

✅ Step 1: Inspect the Cable & Port

Swap the Ethernet cable with another one.
Try a different Ethernet port on the router.
Use the same cable on another device to test.

✅ Step 2: Restart the Modem & Router

Unplug your modem and router for 30 seconds and reconnect. This can clear minor network glitches.

✅ Step 3: Update Network Drivers (Windows 10/11)

Press Win + X > Device Manager
Expand Network Adapters
Right-click your Ethernet device
Select Update driver

✅ Step 4: Reset Network Settings

On Windows 11 or Windows 10:

Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings
Click Network reset

✅ Step 5: Set IP to Automatic

Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center
Click on your Ethernet adapter
Select Properties > Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)
Choose Obtain IP address automatically

✅ Step 6: Check Firewall Settings

Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall and check if the Ethernet works. If it does, whitelist Ethernet from the settings.

💻 Special Case: Ethernet Not Working but Wi-Fi Is (Windows 11)

If your Wi-Fi is fine but Ethernet fails:

Go to Network & Internet settings
Disable Wi-Fi
Re-enable Ethernet
If this doesn’t work, run the Network Troubleshooter under Settings > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters

📌 Advanced Fix: Reinstall Network Drivers

If basic steps don’t work:

Open Device Manager
Right-click the Ethernet adapter > Uninstall device
Reboot your PC—Windows will reinstall the default driver

⚙️ Ethernet Not Connected But Plugged In?

Try:

BIOS reset or updating your BIOS firmware
Enable onboard LAN from BIOS settings
Run Windows Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter

📶 Ethernet and Wi-Fi Both Not Working?

This could indicate:

A system-wide network configuration issue
Malware or system corruption
Faulty network card
Try booting into Safe Mode with Networking and test again.

📲 Bonus: What If You’re On a Laptop?

If you’re asking “Why is my Ethernet not working on my laptop?”:

Confirm your laptop’s Ethernet port is active (some models require toggling via function key or software).
Disable Wi-Fi to avoid interference.
Ensure power-saving settings aren’t disabling the network adapter.

📎 Ethernet Troubleshooting Checklist

✔ Restart PC and router
✔ Replace Ethernet cable
✔ Update network drivers
✔ Use another Ethernet port
✔ Run network troubleshooter
✔ Set IP and DNS to automatic
✔ Temporarily disable firewall
✔ Check BIOS Ethernet settings

📢 Final Thoughts

If you’re frustrated and asking yourself, “Why is my Ethernet not working when everything seems fine?” — don’t worry. Follow this guide step by step and you’ll likely have your connection back in no time. Ethernet offers faster, more reliable connections than Wi-Fi, so getting it fixed is worth the effort.

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