Wi-Fi Works on Phone but Not Laptop? How to Fix It

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Wi-Fi Works on Phone but Not Laptop? How to Fix It

If your Wi-Fi works on your phone but not on your laptop, the problem is usually device-specific, not your internet connection.

Follow the steps below in order to identify what’s causing the issue and what you can safely fix.

Common Symptoms

  • Phone connects to Wi-Fi and works normally

  • Laptop shows Wi-Fi but won’t load websites

  • Laptop connects but says “No Internet”

  • Internet works on other devices

  • Restarting the router doesn’t help the laptop

This usually means the issue is local to the laptop.

Why This Happens

This problem is often caused by:

  • Outdated network settings

  • Temporary DNS or cache issues

  • Power-saving features disabling Wi-Fi

  • Network driver or software conflicts

  • Incorrect network configuration

The steps below help rule these out one by one.

Step-by-Step Fixes

Step 1: Restart the Laptop

This clears temporary network issues.

  • Fully shut down the laptop

  • Wait 30 seconds

  • Turn it back on and reconnect to Wi-Fi

  • Test internet access

This simple step resolves many device-specific problems.

Step 2: Forget and Reconnect to the Wi-Fi Network

Saved network settings can become outdated.

  • Open Wi-Fi settings on the laptop

  • Forget or remove the current network

  • Reconnect and re-enter the Wi-Fi password

  • Test the connection

This refreshes how the laptop connects to the network.

Step 3: Check Date and Time Settings

Incorrect time settings can block secure connections.

  • Make sure date and time are set automatically

  • Correct any mismatch

  • Reconnect to Wi-Fi and test again

This is often overlooked but surprisingly common.

Step 4: Flush Network Cache (If Available)

Some systems store outdated network data.

You don’t need to understand how this works—this step simply refreshes the laptop’s network information.

  • Restarting often clears this automatically

  • If your system provides a network reset option, you can use it

This step helps when websites won’t load despite a connection.

Step 5: Disable VPNs or Security Software Temporarily

VPNs and security tools can block internet access.

  • Temporarily disable VPNs

  • Pause third-party firewall or security software

  • Test the connection

If internet returns, one of these tools may be interfering.

Step 6: Check Power-Saving Settings

Some laptops limit Wi-Fi to save battery.

  • Plug the laptop into power

  • Disable aggressive power-saving modes

  • Test Wi-Fi stability again

This often affects laptops more than phones.

When This Doesn’t Work

The issue may be deeper if:

  • The laptop never connects to any Wi-Fi

  • Other networks also fail

  • The Wi-Fi adapter is missing or disabled

  • The problem started after a system update

At this point, basic troubleshooting may not resolve it.

Next Best Action

If the laptop still won’t connect:

  • Check for operating system updates

  • Update network drivers

  • Contact the laptop manufacturer’s support

  • Seek professional technical help

Knowing when to escalate saves time and frustration.

If you’re unsure whether the issue is with the device or the network, this guide explains how to tell the difference between ISP and router problems.

If the laptop connects but feels slow or unstable, this guide explains how to test your internet speed and understand the results.

Final Tip

If Wi-Fi works on your phone but not your laptop, the internet connection itself is usually fine. Focus on the laptop’s settings, software, and power controls rather than changing router or ISP settings unnecessarily.

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