Why Ethernet Connection Shows No Internet While Wi-Fi Is Fully Active? Troubleshooting and Solutions

Are you experiencing issues where your Ethernet connection does not show internet access while your Wi-Fi network is fully active? This article delves into the possible causes and provides comprehensive solutions to troubleshoot and resolve the problem.

Possible Causes of Ethemet Connection Issues

When your Ethernet connection does not display internet access while your Wi-Fi network works perfectly, the underlying issues can vary. Let's explore the common causes and potential solutions.

1. Network Configuration Issues

One of the primary causes is incorrect network settings. Ensure that your computer is not set to connect to the internet through Wi-Fi by default. Check the network adapter settings and make sure they are configured correctly.

2. Faulty Ethernet Cable

The Ethernet cable could be faulty or not properly connected. Try using a different Ethernet cable to eliminate this issue. Properly securing the cable to your computer and router can also help.

3. Router Issues

The router might have configuration issues or be experiencing congestion. Overloading the router can affect wired connections. Check the router settings to ensure the Ethernet port is active and properly configured.

4. Network Adapter Problems

The Ethernet network adapter itself could be malfunctioning. Ensure it is enabled, and update the drivers if necessary. Sometimes resetting the network adapter can also solve the problem.

5. Firewall/Security Software

Security settings may be blocking the Ethernet connection. Temporarily disable your firewall or security software to see if this resolves the issue. Once the problem is identified, you can adjust the settings accordingly.

6. ISP Issues

Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) might be experiencing issues or has specific limitations for wired connections. Contact your ISP to check for any known problems or service outages in your area.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check Physical Connections

Ensure that the Ethernet cable is securely connected to both your computer and router. You can also try using a different cable to rule out any faulty connections.

2. Restart Devices

A simple reboot of both your computer and router can often resolve connectivity issues. Make sure to complete a full shutdown before restarting.

3. Network Settings (Windows and macOS)

Resetting network settings can help if the configuration is incorrect. For Windows, go to Settings Network Internet Status Network reset. For macOS, go to System Preferences Network and select your Ethernet connection, then set it to check network adapter. Ensure the Ethernet adapter is enabled in the Control Panel on Windows or via terminal commands.

4. Disable Wi-Fi

Temporarily disabling Wi-Fi can help you determine if the issue lies with the wired or wireless connection. You can disable Wi-Fi through the network settings or by toggling a dedicated switch on your device.

5. Firewall/Security Settings

Review your firewall or security software settings to ensure they are not blocking the Ethernet connection. If necessary, temporarily disable these settings to test the connection and then re-enable them.

6. Check Router Settings

Login to your router's configuration page, usually accessed via a web browser, and check if the Ethernet port is enabled and correctly configured. Adjust settings as needed.

7. Contact ISP

If the above solutions do not resolve the issue, contact your ISP. They can check if there are any broader issues with the service or network outages in your area.

By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue with your Ethernet connection. If the problem persists, a professional IT support team might be necessary to further investigate and address the issue.