NIC shows "No Connection" in Windows 11 - works in Linux

If you are experiencing a "No Connection" issue with your Network Interface Card (NIC) in Windows 11, but it works fine in Linux, don't worry! This article will guide you through some troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the problem.

Check Physical Connections

The first step is to ensure that all physical connections are properly established. Follow these steps:

1. Make sure the Ethernet cable is securely plugged into both the NIC port on your computer and the router or modem.
2. If you are using a wireless connection, ensure that your computer is within range of the Wi-Fi network and that the wireless adapter is turned on.
3. Try using a different Ethernet cable or connecting to a different Wi-Fi network to rule out any issues with the current setup.

Restart Your Computer and Router/Modem

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve connectivity issues. Follow these steps:

1. Shut down your computer.
2. Unplug the power cable from your router or modem.
3. Wait for about 30 seconds.
4. Plug the power cable back into the router or modem.
5. Start your computer and check if the "No Connection" issue persists.

Update Network Drivers

Outdated or incompatible network drivers can cause connectivity problems. Follow these steps to update your network drivers:

1. Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard and select "Device Manager" from the menu.
2. In the Device Manager window, expand the "Network adapters" category.
3. Right-click on your network adapter (it might be labeled as Ethernet controller, Wi-Fi adapter, or something similar) and select "Update driver".
4. Choose the option to automatically search for updated driver software.
5. Wait for the process to complete and then restart your computer.

Disable Power Saving Settings

In some cases, power saving settings can interfere with the network connection. Follow these steps to disable power saving settings for your network adapter:

1. Go to the Device Manager as explained in the previous section.
2. Right-click on your network adapter and select "Properties".
3. In the Properties window, go to the "Power Management" tab.
4. Uncheck the option that says "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power".
5. Click "OK" to save the changes.

After following these troubleshooting steps, your NIC should start working properly in Windows 11. If the issue persists, consider seeking further assistance from a professional or your network administrator.

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