Table of Contents
- Why Does Your Internet Disappear After a Blue Screen? Proven Fixes for Frustrating Windows Issues
- Common Causes
- Solution 1: Check Wi-Fi or Ethernet Status
- Solution 2: Inspect the Network Driver
- Solution 3: Repair System Files
- Solution 4: Perform a System Restore
- Solution 5: Advanced Troubleshooting
- Additional Tips
Why Does Your Internet Disappear After a Blue Screen? Proven Fixes for Frustrating Windows Issues
Common Causes
- Network drivers may become corrupted or disabled after a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD).
- System files essential for networking could be damaged.
- Hardware settings in BIOS/CMOS may be altered.
- Network adapters might be disabled or missing in Windows settings.
Solution 1: Check Wi-Fi or Ethernet Status
- Open Control Panel.
- Go to Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings.
- Look for your Wi-Fi or Ethernet adapter. If it says “Disabled,” right-click and select “Enable.”
Solution 2: Inspect the Network Driver
- Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand Network adapters.
- If the network driver is missing or has a warning symbol, download the latest version from your motherboard or device manufacturer’s website using another computer, then transfer via USB.
To reinstall: Right-click the adapter, select Uninstall device, then restart your PC. Windows should reinstall the driver automatically.
Solution 3: Repair System Files
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Run:
sfc /scannow
- If issues persist, run:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Scanhealth DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Checkhealth DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
- Restart your PC after these commands.
Solution 4: Perform a System Restore
- Boot into Safe Mode.
- Press Win + R, type rstrui.exe, and press Enter.
- Select a restore point from before the BSOD occurred and follow the prompts.
Solution 5: Advanced Troubleshooting
- Reset BIOS to default settings if network hardware is not detected.
- Clear CMOS to reset hardware settings.
- Run a network reset in Windows Settings if all else fails (Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network reset).
- If none of the above work, consider resetting your PC or reinstalling Windows.
Additional Tips
- Always ensure Airplane mode is off and your router is functioning.
- If using a laptop, check that the wireless switch (if present) is on.
- Temporarily disable antivirus software to rule out conflicts.
- Update BIOS and chipset drivers if network issues persist after a BSOD.
Resolving internet issues after a blue screen often requires a combination of checking hardware settings, repairing system files, and updating or reinstalling network drivers. Following these steps can quickly restore connectivity and minimize downtime.