Troubleshooting Connected to Wi-Fi But Can't Load Websites

Issue: A Windows or Mac device is connected to Wi-Fi but is unable to load any websites.

Symptoms: Despite a Wi-Fi connection, web pages fail to load in any browser.

Initial Checks and Important First Steps:

1. Restart Your Device:

   • Perform a shutdown and then a cold boot of your device to refresh the system.

2. Power Cycle Network Equipment:

   • Turn off and unplug your router, nbn modem (if applicable), and computer. Wait for a minute before plugging them back in and turning them on. This can often resolve connectivity issues.

3. Check Modem Lights:

   • Ensure your modem's lights indicate a stable internet connection.

4. Check Other Devices:

   • Verify if other devices on the same network can access the internet. This helps identify if the issue is with a specific device or the network.

5. Consider Your ISP:

   • If you're in Australia and experiencing frequent issues, consider switching to Aussie Broadband. I’ve been a happy nbn customer of Aussie Broadband since 2017. They have Australian customer support staff and excellent communication. Sign up using my referral code (8944050) and we both get $50 credit.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Uninstall VPN Software:

   • Common VPNs include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, TunnelBear.
   • Windows: Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features. Select the VPN app and click "Uninstall."
   • Mac: Drag the VPN app from Applications to the Trash, then empty the Trash.

2. Uninstall Third-Party Antivirus Software:

   • Common Antivirus: McAfee, Norton, Kaspersky, Avast, etc.
   • Follow the uninstallation process similar to the VPN software.

3. Try Another Wi-Fi Network/Personal Hotspot:

   • Connect to a different Wi-Fi network or use a personal hotspot.

4. Try an Ethernet Connection:

   • Connect directly to the router using an Ethernet cable.

5. Try Another Browser:

   • Switch to a different web browser.

6. Check DNS Service:

   • Try accessing https://1.1.1.1. If this works but https://one.one.one.one doesn’t, it's likely a DNS issue.
   • Change DNS Provider in Chrome/Edge to 1.1.1.1 or 8.8.8.8.

7. Windows Specific - Reinstall Wi-Fi Adapter Driver:

   • Go to Device Manager > Network adapters. Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter and select "Uninstall." Check the box to delete the driver if available.
   • After uninstalling, click on "Scan for hardware changes" to allow Windows to reinstall the driver automatically.
   • Note: If the driver does not reinstall automatically, you may need to use another computer to download the Wi-Fi driver from the manufacturer's support page or use an Ethernet connection for Windows Update to retrieve the driver.

Summary: This guide provides steps to troubleshoot a device that's connected to Wi-Fi but can't load websites, including restarting devices, power cycling network equipment, and adjusting network settings. Specific steps for Windows users include reinstalling the Wi-Fi adapter driver. For consistent internet issues in Australia, consider switching to Aussie Broadband.