How to Reset Network Adapters in Windows 11 Network issues are a pain, from slow Wi-Fi to connection drops that disrupt your work. Fortunately, learning how to reset your network adapters on Windows 11 can resolve these issues quickly. Before we begin, be sure to subscribe to NinjaOne's IT Video Hub and our YouTube channel for more tech content like this. Why Your Network Adapter Fails Your network adapter is the hardware that connects your device to the internet in local networks. It can fail due to corrupted settings, driver conflicts, or software bugs from VPNs, firewalls, or proxy tools. Before you begin the reset process, make sure you have administrator privileges and a backup of your Wi-Fi profiles and key network settings such as static IPs, VPNs, and proxies. Also, save any open work as a reset may require a restart. If possible, download the latest network drivers your device or adapter manufacturer before you start. Restoring Default Settings with a Network Reset The easiest way to perform a system-wide reset is through the Settings app. This method restores all network components to their factory defaults, wiping out saved Wi-Fi accounts, static IPs, custom DNS settings, VPN connections, and virtual network adapters. Simply press Win + I to open Settings, then go to Network & Internet, Advanced network settings, select Network reset and then click Reset now. Confirm the action, and your PC will automatically restart to complete the process. This method is great for a fresh start, but will remove all your old settings Using the Command Prompt to Flush the Network Stack For a less drastic approach that keeps your saved Wi-Fi profiles, you can use the Command Prompt. This method resets the TCP/IP stack without wiping all of your adapter settings. First, press Win + R, type cmd, and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open the Command Prompt as an administrator. Then execute the following commands in order... After running these commands, close the Command Prompt and restart your device. This is a powerful way to clear out issues without losing all your network configurations. Advanced Resetting with PowerShell For IT professionals or users who need to perform resets remotely or on multiple devices, PowerShell is an excellent tool. You can disable and re-enable all adapters with a simple three- line script, or target a specific adapter by name to avoid losing your connection during a remote session. PowerShell also allows you to reset a device's IP and DNS settings automatically, which is a big time- saver for repetitive tasks. A quick reset can solve many common network issues, from slow speeds to DNS errors. Whether you choose the user-friendly Settings app, the targeted Command Prompt, or the powerful PowerShell, understanding these methods can quickly restore your network function. For more information, check out our official blog post on How to Reset Network Adapters in Windows 11 linked in the description below.