📡 Device Shows Wi-Fi Signal but Can’t Access Websites – Troubleshooting & Fix Guide

Got it 👍 Let’s go step by step. When your device shows a Wi-Fi signal but can’t access websites, it usually means you’re connected to the router, but there’s a problem either with the router itself, your internet provider, or the device’s network settings.

🔎 Step 1: Identify the Type of Issue

• ✅ Local issue (device problem): If other devices can access the internet fine, but only one device can’t, the problem is with that device.
• 🌍 Network issue (router/ISP problem): If no device on the same Wi-Fi can access websites, the issue is with the router or your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

🛠️ Common Causes & Fixes

1. 🌐 DNS Issues

Explanation: Your device may be connected to the router, but the DNS (Domain Name System) is failing, so websites don’t load.

Fix:

• Windows: Open Command Prompt and run ipconfig /flushdns. Then set DNS manually (Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) via Network Settings.
• Mobile: Go to Wi-Fi settings → Modify network → Advanced → Set DNS to 8.8.8.8.

2. 📶 IP Address Conflict

Explanation: Two devices may be using the same IP, blocking internet access.

Fix: Restart the device and router.

• Windows: Run ipconfig /release then ipconfig /renew.
• Mobile: Turn Airplane Mode ON → OFF to refresh the IP.

3. 🖥️ Proxy or VPN Misconfiguration

Explanation: If a proxy server or VPN is active, it can block or misroute traffic.

Fix: Disable VPN or proxy temporarily and test. On Windows: Settings → Network & Internet → Proxy → Turn off “Use a proxy server”.

4. 🌍 Router/ISP Problems

Explanation: Sometimes, your router is working but the ISP connection is down.

Fix: Restart your router (unplug for 30 seconds). Check if the “Internet” light is red/orange. If all devices are affected → call your ISP.

5. 🔒 Security/Firewall Blocking

Explanation: Antivirus or firewall software may block internet access.

Fix: Disable firewall/antivirus temporarily. If websites load after disabling, whitelist your browser in the firewall.

6. 📱 Browser or App Issue

Explanation: Sometimes the issue is just with the browser/app, not the network.

Fix: Try another browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari). Clear browser cache and cookies. On mobile, clear app data for the browser.

7. 🛜 Outdated Network Drivers (PC Only)

Explanation: Old or corrupted drivers can cause connection issues.

Fix: On Windows: Right-click Start → Device Manager → Network Adapters → Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter → Update driver.

8. 🔁 Captive Portal (Public Wi-Fi)

Explanation: On hotel, café, or airport Wi-Fi, you may need to log in via a browser pop-up.

Fix: Open a browser and try any website. If redirected, log in or accept terms to get access.

✅ Quick Checklist (When Issue Appears)

• Restart device & router.
• Test on another device to rule out device problem.
• Try a different browser or app.
• Switch DNS to Google DNS.
• Renew IP / flush DNS.
• Disable proxy, VPN, or firewall.
• Contact ISP if all devices are affected.

⚡ In Summary

The issue usually comes down to DNS misconfiguration, IP conflicts, or ISP outages. Try flushing DNS, switching to Google DNS, restarting your router, and testing another device to quickly isolate the problem.