Wi-Fi keeps dropping? Fixes that actually work

Steps

1. Run the troubleshooter. On Windows 11, open the Get Help app and run the Network and Internet troubleshooter. It runs tests and tries to fix what it finds.
2. Check the basics. Select the network icon at the right end of the taskbar. Make sure Wi-Fi is on and that your network shows Connected. Then check Settings > Network & internet > Airplane mode is off.
3. Forget the network and join again. In Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi, select Manage known networks, select your network and select Forget. Then pick it from the list again and enter the password.
4. Restart the modem and router. Unplug the router, then the modem. Wait at least 30 seconds. Plug the modem back in and wait for its lights to stop blinking, then plug in the router. Give them a few minutes. Everyone on your Wi-Fi will be disconnected while you do this.
5. Try the other band. Many routers send out two networks, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, which show up as separate names. If you see both, connect to the other one.
6. Test another device. Try the same network on a phone or another laptop. If it works there, the problem is likely your PC. If nothing can stay connected, it is the router or the internet service.

If that didn't work

Microsoft's page continues with deeper steps: resetting the network settings with commands, and removing the network adapter's driver so that Windows reinstalls it. Before removing a driver, Microsoft says to download a copy of the latest driver from the PC maker's website first, in case Windows doesn't reinstall it. If that sounds like more than you want to take on, this is a good moment to call a person.

Quick checks from WeldonPC

WeldonPC's own short list for “internet not working” is the same idea: unplug the router for 30 seconds, check whether other devices can connect, and restart your computer.