Have you noticed that the Wi-Fi icon shows an active connection, but the internet isn't working, and the network status is yellow and says "Connected, not metered"? This is a common issue in Windows operating systems, indicating that there's a physical connection to the router, but no data is being exchanged with the global network. The computer "hears" the access point, but can't receive a response from the server or gateway.
The reasons for this behavior can range from a simple malfunction DNS servers to more complex driver conflicts or router hardware failures. Unlike a complete network outage, the problem here lies in the logical chain of data packet transmission. Often, the system cannot detect internet connectivity because it receives no response to its requests to Microsoft or Google servers.
In this article, we'll detail a detailed procedure to restore your network to normal operation. We'll cover everything from simple reboots to in-depth network protocol configuration. You don't need to be a system administrator to complete these steps; simply follow the instructions carefully.
Diagnostics and initial testing of equipment
The first step is to rule out basic hardware malfunctions. Routers operating 24/7 often accumulate cache errors or overheat, which causes the WAN module to freeze. A simple reboot can free up the device's memory and restore normal traffic flow. It's also worth checking the integrity of the cable running from the ISP to the router.
Pay attention to the indicators on the router body. If the light is on WAN or Internet, but it's not blinking or is red, the problem may be with your ISP. In this case, no computer settings will help until the external signal is restored. Make sure the cable is securely inserted into the connector until you hear a click.
If possible, try connecting your ISP's cable directly to your computer, bypassing the router. This will help you determine whether the problem lies with your local network or your ISP. However, remember that direct connections often require some configuration. PPPoE or L2TP connections in Windows if the provider uses authorization.
Resetting network settings and working with IP addresses
The most common reason for the "not measured" status is an IP address conflict or incorrect protocol settings. TCP/IPThe computer may be receiving an incorrect gateway or DNS, blocking network access. A command prompt reset is an effective solution to this problem.
Run the command prompt as administrator. To do this, find cmd In the search box, right-click and select the appropriate option. In the window that opens, enter a series of commands that will clear the cache and reset the protocol stack configuration. This action is safe and will not affect your personal files.
ipconfig /releaseipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
Press Enter after each command. Please note that the command netsh winsock reset Resets the Winsock catalog to its default configuration, which often resolves issues with network utilities. After completing all operations, be sure to restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
☑️ Reset network settings
In some cases, a manually entered static IP address may interfere with proper operation. Check your adapter settings: go to Control Panel → Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center. Select your adapter, click Properties, then Internet Protocol version 4 (TCP/IPv4)Make sure the boxes for automatic address retrieval are checked.
Problems with the provider's DNS servers
When a device is connected but the internet connection isn't metered, DNS servers are often to blame. DNS servers are like the internet's "phone book," translating website addresses we understand into server IP addresses. If the ISP's server isn't responding, the browser won't be able to open any pages, even though the connection is technically working.
The solution is to replace standard DNS with public and reliable services, such as those from Google or Cloudflare. This will not only solve the access issue but can also speed up website loading. These changes affect the same IPv4 protocol properties discussed above.
⚠️ Attention: When changing DNS servers, write down the old values. In rare cases, corporate networks or specific provider plans require using only their internal addressing.
For manual configuration, use the following addresses. They are time-tested and provide high response speeds. In the "Preferred DNS server" field, enter 8.8.8.8, and in the "Alternative" - 8.8.4.4These are Google Public DNS addresses.
Alternative DNS addresses
Cloudflare: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1. Yandex.DNS: 77.88.8.8 and 77.88.8.1. OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220.
After making the changes, close all windows by clicking "OK" and try accessing the website. If the pages start loading, the problem was caused by unavailable nameservers from your ISP. This is a common occurrence when performing maintenance on ISP backbones.
Updating and reinstalling Wi-Fi drivers
The software that controls your network adapter may malfunction after a Windows update or a sudden power surge. The driver is the intermediary between the hardware and the operating system, and errors in it often result in the Wi-Fi "seeing" the network but being unable to transmit data.
Go to device ManagerThis can be done through the Start menu or the command devmgmt.mscFind the "Network Adapters" section and select your wireless module (usually with the words "Wireless," "Wi-Fi," or brands like Realtek, Intel, or Qualcomm in the name). Right-click and select "Uninstall device."
Don't be afraid to uninstall the driver. After rebooting, Windows will automatically attempt to install the most suitable driver version from its database. This often helps reset the settings and resolve software conflicts. If automatic installation doesn't help, download the latest driver from the laptop manufacturer's website or from another device's motherboard.
| Action | Target | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Uninstalling the driver | Resetting the adapter configuration | Clean install on reboot |
| Update via dispatcher | Search for a new software version | Fixing known bugs |
| Driver rollback | Return to the working version | Stabilization after update |
| Checking the version | Software relevance | OS compatibility |
It's also worth checking the adapter's power settings. In the device properties (Power Management tab), uncheck "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power." This will prevent Windows from "sleeping" the Wi-Fi module, which then stops it from measuring connection speed correctly.
Router settings and broadcast channels
The problem may lie not with the computer, but with the router's settings. If the device is distributing Wi-Fi on a channel that is heavily congested with neighboring networks, data packets may be lost, creating the illusion of a dead internet connection. This is especially true in apartment buildings.
Go to the router's web interface (usually the address 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1). Find your wireless network settings (Wireless Settings). Try changing the channel from "Auto" to a fixed one (for example, 1, 6, or 11 for the 2.4 GHz band). This often stabilizes the connection.
⚠️ Attention: Router interfaces vary from manufacturer to manufacturer (Asus, TP-Link, Keenetic, MikroTik). Look for sections labeled "Wireless," "WLAN," or "Wi-Fi."
Another important setting is the wireless network mode. Make sure that a mixed mode is selected, for example, 802.11 b/g/n or 802.11 ac/axIf only the older standard is selected, modern devices may operate unstable. Also, check if MAC address filtering is enabled, which could block access to your PC.
The impact of antiviruses and firewalls
Third-party antivirus programs often have built-in firewalls, which can mistakenly block internet connections, deeming them suspicious. If the "Connected, not metered" status appears immediately after installing new security software, it's most likely the cause.
Try temporarily disabling your antivirus protection completely. If the internet connection is restored, you'll need to adjust your firewall rules or consider replacing your antivirus. Windows Defender, a built-in antivirus, may also be the cause of the block if its settings have been changed.
To check the Windows Firewall status, go to Control Panel and select the appropriate option. Click "Turn firewall on or off." Try disabling it for both private and public networks for a short period of time to diagnose the issue. Remember to re-enable protection after testing.
Windows 10 and 11 Specifics: Network Reset
Modern versions of Microsoft operating systems have a powerful built-in "Network Reset" feature. It performs all the above-mentioned actions (resetting TCP/IP, Winsock, and removing adapters) automatically. This is the "heavy artillery" when simpler methods fail.
Find the "Network & Internet" section in Windows Settings. At the very bottom of the "Status" page (or in "Advanced network settings" in Windows 11), you'll find a link called "Network reset." Clicking it and confirming the action will initiate a reset of your network components.
The system will warn you that the computer will reboot in 5 minutes. All saved Wi-Fi passwords will be deleted, and you'll have to re-enter them. However, this is guaranteed to reset the network stack to factory settings, eliminating any underlying software errors.
What happens when you reset your network?
All network adapters and their drivers are removed, TCP/IP settings are reset, the DNS cache is cleared, and all saved Wi-Fi profiles and VPN connections are deleted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is there internet on my phone, but on my computer it says "not metered"?
This indicates that the problem is localized to your computer or its settings, as both the router and ISP are working properly. Most likely, the issue lies with the PC's Wi-Fi adapter drivers, incorrect DNS settings, or an antivirus blocking the connection.
Can a virus cause this network status?
Yes, some malware changes proxy server or DNS settings, redirecting or blocking traffic. Scan your system with an antivirus and ensure that no unknown proxy is configured in your browser or system settings.
Will replacing the network cable help if the problem is with Wi-Fi?
No, if you're connected wirelessly, there's no physical cable between your PC and the router. However, the cable connecting the router to the ISP can become damaged, causing problems for all devices.
What should I do if my Wi-Fi adapter disappears after resetting my network?
If the adapter disappears from Device Manager, it may be disabled by hardware. Check the keys on the keyboard (often Fn + antenna icon) or the switch on the laptop case. Also, try removing and reinserting the Wi-Fi module if it's an external USB adapter.