How To Fix The Network Cable Unplugged Error In Windows

Understanding the Network Cable Unplugged Error

The "Network Cable Unplugged" error in Windows can be frustrating, especially when you know the cable is properly connected. This error often indicates that your computer is not detecting the Ethernet connection correctly, leading to intermittent or complete loss of internet access.

Checking the Ethernet Connection

Ensure Proper Cable Connection

Before diving into complex troubleshooting steps, ensure that the Ethernet cable is securely connected to both your computer and the router. Check for any loose connections and try swapping the cable with a different one to rule out any issues with the current cable.

Verify Router Indicator Lights

Make sure the indicator lights on your router are blinking normally. If the lights are not blinking as expected, it could indicate a problem with the router or the connection.

Troubleshooting Steps

Restart Your Computer and Router

Sometimes, a simple reboot can resolve the issue. Restart your computer and router to see if this clears up the problem. For your computer, shut down, unplug the power cable, wait a few minutes, and then restart. For your router, unplug it from the power outlet, wait a few seconds, and then plug it back in.

Disable and Enable the Ethernet Adapter

1. Open Network Connections:
   • Press the Windows key + S to open the search menu.
   • Type "Network Connections" and open the application.
2. Disable the Ethernet Adapter:
   • Right-click on your Ethernet connection and select "Disable."
3. Enable the Ethernet Adapter:
   • Right-click on the same Ethernet connection and select "Enable".

Change the Ethernet Adapter’s Duplex Settings

1. Open Device Manager:
   • Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
2. Locate the Ethernet Adapter:
   • Expand "Network Adapters" and right-click on your Ethernet adapter.
3. Change Duplex Settings:
   • Select "Properties," then go to the "Advanced" tab.
   • Find "Speed & Duplex" in the Property section and change the Value from "Auto Negotiation" to a specific setting like "100 Mbps Full Duplex" or "10 Mbps Full Duplex".

Run Network Troubleshooters

1. Open Troubleshoot Settings:
   • Press the Windows key + S to open the search menu.
   • Type "Troubleshoot settings" and open the application.
2. Run Network Adapter Troubleshooter:
   • Select "Other troubleshooters" and then "Network Adapter."
   • Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the troubleshooting process.

Reset Network Settings

1. Open Network & Internet Settings:
   • Press the Windows key + I to open Settings.
   • Go to "Network & Internet" and then "Status."
2. Reset Network Settings:
   • Under the "Change your network settings" section, click on "Network reset."
   • Click "Reset now" and then "Yes" to confirm. This will reset all network adapters to their factory settings.

Update or Reinstall Network Adapter Drivers

1. Open Device Manager:
   • Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
2. Update the Driver:
   • Expand "Network Adapters," right-click on your Ethernet adapter, and select "Update driver."
   • Choose to search for updated drivers automatically or manually download and install the latest driver from the manufacturer's website.
3. Uninstall and Reinstall the Driver:
   • If updating does not work, right-click on the Ethernet adapter and select "Uninstall device."
   • Restart your computer and let Windows reinstall the driver.

Use Command Prompt to Reset Network Settings

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
   • Press the Windows key + S to open the search menu.
   • Type "CMD" and right-click to select "Run as administrator."
2. Run Network Reset Commands:
   • Enter the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:

     netsh int ip reset
     netsh advfirewall reset
     netsh winsock reset
     ipconfig /flushdns
     ipconfig /release
     ipconfig /renew
     

3. Restart Your Computer:
   • After running these commands, restart your computer to apply the changes.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the "Network Cable Unplugged" error in Windows and restore your internet connection.