New E-Riders Group

Experiencing issues where your router stopped connecting to internet or the router connected but no internet error persists can be extremely frustrating, especially when everything appears to be set up correctly—lights are on, cables are secure, and your device shows a Wi-Fi connection, yet you’re still unable to browse or stream anything online, leading you to ask: “Why is my Wi-Fi not working but connected?” This situation is more common than you’d think, and it can stem from several different causes, each requiring a slightly different approach to troubleshoot and resolve. It often begins innocently enough—you sit down to check your emails, watch a movie, or join an important video meeting, only to realize your device is connected to the router, but there’s no internet access. The little exclamation point on the Wi-Fi icon or the dreaded “No internet, secured” message appears, prompting a flurry of restarts, unplugging cables, and perhaps even a call to your internet service provider. But before you throw in the towel, let’s explore the deeper reasons behind this issue and the steps you can take to get your network back online. First, consider whether the issue is with your router or your modem. The router handles your local network (Wi-Fi), while the modem connects your home to the broader internet. If the modem loses sync with your ISP, your router will still show a Wi-Fi connection, but internet access will be lost. A quick test: try connecting a laptop directly to the modem via Ethernet. If there's still no internet, the problem lies with the modem or ISP. However, if the Ethernet connection works, the router may be misconfigured or experiencing firmware issues. In many cases, a simple reboot of both devices—powering them off, waiting 30 seconds, then restarting—can resolve temporary glitches. But if this doesn’t work, consider checking the DNS settings on your router or device, as incorrect DNS can lead to partial connectivity, where you’re technically online but unable to reach websites. Another culprit can be IP address conflicts, especially if multiple devices are trying to use the same IP address or if the DHCP server in the router malfunctions. Manually renewing the IP lease or assigning static IPs may resolve the problem. Additionally, outdated firmware can cause connectivity inconsistencies. Router manufacturers often release updates to address bugs or improve compatibility with newer devices, so logging into your router’s admin panel and checking for updates is essential. On the other hand, the issue might not be technical at all—it could be account-related. ISPs may suspend service for non-payment, data cap violations, or maintenance, and these disruptions often don’t manifest clearly on your end. Logging into your ISP account or calling support can quickly clarify if service is active. And let’s not forget signal interference—routers placed near microwaves, cordless phones, or too far from connected devices may offer a strong Wi-Fi signal but actually deliver no usable internet, especially if interference blocks critical frequency bands. To combat this, ensure your router is placed centrally in your home, elevated, and away from electronic devices that might cause interference. Upgrading to a dual-band router or a mesh Wi-Fi system can also dramatically improve coverage and reliability. Security settings also play a role; overly strict firewall settings or parental control features could inadvertently block legitimate traffic, especially after a firmware update or reset. Make sure to review your router's security settings, or consider resetting them to factory defaults and reconfiguring manually to ensure no unintended restrictions are in place. Devices themselves may be at fault too—corrupt network drivers, misconfigured network profiles, or even malware can create false impressions of connectivity. Running a network troubleshooter, reinstalling drivers, or scanning for viruses can be revealing. For mobile users, switching from Wi-Fi to cellular data can help verify if the issue is localized to the home network or device-specific. For those using VPNs or proxy servers, these tools can also interfere with normal connectivity, especially if the server is down or misconfigured. Disabling them temporarily may restore internet access. Lastly, it's worth investing in a bit of proactive maintenance—labeling your cables, documenting your network settings, backing up your router configuration, and keeping firmware up to date can save hours of frustration down the line. When facing router issues, a methodical approach rooted in understanding the difference between network layers, device roles, and settings pays off far more than random resets or guesswork. In summary, when your router is connected but you still lack internet access, don’t panic; assess each layer of your network—from ISP to modem, from router settings to device configurations—and step through potential issues systematically. By doing so, you not only regain access but also deepen your understanding of how your home network functions, empowering you to handle future problems with confidence.