How to fix WiFi message “unable to connect to this network”

callum laugharne 0 Reputation points
2025-09-26T17:03:11.4+00:00

Hello, I have opened my pc to find that it won’t connect to my home WiFi with the message: “unable to connect to this network”. I have restarted several times, reset the network settings, flushed using the command prompt, uninstalled adapters with device manager and disabled using control panel to no avail.

I have forgotten the network but it still will not connect, my other devices can connect to this internet but my pc is unable to. On the WiFi symbol there is a cross with the WiFi bars which wasn’t there this morning when I last used my pc. I do not have a system restore point to reset back to.

thank you.

Windows for home | Other | Internet and connectivity
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  1. Denis B 0 Reputation points
    2026-09-16T08:59:16.8933333+00:00

    I'm having the same question. However, my networks have been pushed via GPO so I am unable to "forget" them. I have removed the wifi card, reset IP stack, even removed the networks by deleting the directory in C:\Windows\wlansvc\Policies
    Other WiFi networks connect just fine, just this one.

    I get it to work sometimes, but a few days later it goes again.

    Checked 802.x certificates etc, but cannot figure out the problem.

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  2. Ferdinand Nanalig 32,850 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-09-26T19:34:11.5666667+00:00

    Have you tried a hard reset? Turn off the laptop completely. Unplug the power adapter and remove the battery (if it’s removable). Hold the power button for 15–30 seconds to drain any remaining power. Reconnect the battery and charger, then turn the device back on. If your laptop has a non-removable battery, just hold the power button down for about 15–20 seconds until it shuts off, then restart it.

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  3. Ferdinand Nanalig 32,850 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-09-26T19:26:26.7266667+00:00

    Hi, I am an independent advisor, and welcome to Microsoft Q&A.

    Let me help you with this issue.

    Have you tried completely deleting the WIFI driver?

    Here are the steps to completely remove a Device from your computer.

    Step 1. Use shortcut keys Windows key+ + X

    Step 2. Select Device Manager.

    Step 3. Expand the entry for Network Adapters, Right-click the problematic device, which is either an Intel Wireless or Realtek WIFI adapter, and select Uninstall device.

    Step 4. You need to check the option Delete the driver software for this device and then click the Uninstall button.

    Step 5. Reboot the computer.

    After the reboot, please see if the problem is fixed.

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