How to Fix "Can't Connect to This Network" in Windows
By Marcus Lee
· About Zone Desire
Quick answer
"Can't connect to this network" means Windows could not join the Wi-Fi. Forget the network and reconnect, restart the router, turn off IPv6 temporarily for testing, and update or reinstall the Wi-Fi driver.
What does “Can't Connect to This Network” mean?
The PC failed to finish the Wi-Fi connection process.
What causes it?
- Saved Wi-Fi profile is outdated (password changed)
- Wi-Fi driver issue
- Router security mode not supported
- Airplane mode or power saving
Steps to try
Stop when the issue is resolved.
- Turn Airplane mode on and off.
- Forget the network and connect again.
- Restart the router and PC.
- Device Manager → Network adapters → uninstall the Wi-Fi adapter → restart (Windows reinstalls it).
- In router settings, use WPA2/WPA3 mixed mode if your PC is older.
Need more support? Check the official help: Microsoft Support: Fix Wi-Fi connection issues
FAQs
Why does it work on my phone but not PC?
The PC's driver or saved profile is the likely problem.
Does disabling IPv6 help?
Sometimes for testing, but turn it back on after.