How to Perform a Network Reset in Windows 10 GA S REGULAR Menu Lifewire Tech for Humans Newsletter! Search Close GO Software & Apps > Windows
How to Perform a Network Reset in Windows 10
Reinstall your network adapters to fix connectivity problems
By Scott Orgera Scott Orgera Writer Scott Orgera is a former Lifewire writer covering tech since 2007. He has 25+ years' experience as a programmer and QA leader, and holds several Microsoft certifications including MCSE, MCP+I, and MOUS. He is also A+ certified. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on November 21, 2021 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Windows The Ultimate Laptop Buying Guide What to Know
Select Start menu > Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network reset > Reset now > Yes.Before resetting, save network adapter details from Network & Internet > Status > Change adapter options > right-click adapter > Configure.If you use a VPN, back up usernames, passwords, and other setup information before a network reset. Network connectivity issues often mean you can't access the internet. While it can be tricky to determine the cause, performing a network reset may correct the problem and get you back online. There are some simpler fixes to try before taking the network reset route. However, if none of these do the trick, here's how to perform a network reset in Windows 10. What to Do Before Performing a Network Reset
A network reset removes drivers and settings for the network adapters installed on your PC, reinstalling drivers and settings to the default state. Configured custom settings are also removed. You may need to reinstall and reconfigure VPN software or network virtualization software if it doesn't function as expected. The network reset option is available only in Windows 10 version 1607 and later. Before you perform a network reset, save pertinent information and settings. Network Adapter Settings
Windows 10 users tend to leave the network adapter settings as-is, trusting that the out-of-the-box configuration delivers satisfactory results. If you customized the adapter settings, note these modifications so that you can restore those settings after the reset process finishes. To access these settings, take the following steps. Open the Start menu and select Settings. Select Network & Internet. Select Status. Select Change adapter options. In the Control Panel window, right-click the adapter for which you want to view details. Select Properties. Select Configure in the connection's Properties interface. The properties for the network adapter display, with each tab containing relevant information. Note any pertinent values or settings in these properties, specifically those you modified, as these may change to the default state as part of the adapter reset process. VPN Settings
If you use Virtual Private Networking (VPN) to connect to a workplace or other secure environment, store the necessary credentials and setup information before resetting your network adapters. Not all relevant information is removed during the reset process, especially when using third-party software. Still, back up usernames, passwords, server addresses, and application-specific details in case this information is deleted. How to Perform a Network Reset in Windows 10
Now that you're prepared and have the necessary backups, perform the network reset. Open the Start menu and select Settings. Choose Network & Internet. Choose Status, and then select Network reset. Select Reset now in the Network reset screen. Select Yes in the confirmation message to restart your PC and complete the process. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Install the Client for Microsoft Networks How to Reset Network Settings in Windows 10 What to Do When Windows 11 Can't Connect to a Network How to Perform a Netsh Winsock Reset How to Fix Windows 11 Ethernet Driver Problems Share an Internet Connection in Windows How to Reset Wi-Fi Adapter How to Reset Network Settings in Windows 11 How to Change DNS Servers in Windows How to Monitor Your Data Usage in Windows 10 What to Do When Windows 10 Can't Connect to a Network How to Find Your Default Gateway IP Address Connecting a PC to a Wireless Home Network How to Share Internet Access How to Set up USB Tethering on Windows 10 How to Fix It When Windows Spotlight Is Not Working on Windows 10 Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies