It has happened to all of us at some point, the WiFi signal is strong, but there is no internet connectivity. This is because WiFi and the Internet are two different things, and understanding the difference between the two connections can help you troubleshoot future network problems. And in this post we will tell you why many times you are connected to your WiFI, but not to the Internet.
How is WiFi different from the Internet?
First of all, it is important that you know the difference between WiFi and the Internet. WiFi is a registered trade name for a group of technologies that allow a device, such as a computer, smartphone, or game console, to connect wirelessly to a local area network (LAN) using a radio link. WiFi replaces the need for a physical cable between a networked device and a router, a device that manages the connections between all devices on the LAN.
The Internet, on the other hand, is a general name for hundreds of millions of smaller networks, linked together. Within these smaller networks, there are billions of devices connected via TCP/IP protocols. These devices can be connected to each other using physical cables, optical cabling, radio links or other technologies that have not yet been designed.
So when any of your devices have a WiFi connection, they are connected to a LAN. But this network that you are connected to may not necessarily be connected to the Internet. That’s where the problem lies, so let’s take a closer look.
It is important to understand connection problems
Here is a very simplified network diagram. In it, you can see a device that is linked to a router through a WiFi network, forming a local network, and a local network that is successfully connected to the Internet.
Sometimes the link between your local network (managed by a router or modem) and the Internet goes down. There could be a temporary problem with your Internet Service Provider (ISP) equipment, physical damage to the cables that connect you to the provider’s network, or some other problem. In those cases, you are still connected to the local network, but your local network is not connected to the Internet.
When this happens, your device may show a strong connection or a very good WiFi signal, but it does not have internet connectivity.
What to do when your internet connection is down
When you have problems with your internet connection, first try to restart your device. If that doesn’t work, it’s time to try other options:
First thing’s first
The first thing you should do is start with the basics. In this case you can try to restart or turn off your modem and your router. Then turn on the modem, wait about 30 seconds and also turn on the router. This will correct some connection problems most of the time.
Try to solve the problem from your computer
If you have connection problems, maybe you can fix them from your Windows PC. To do this, you just have to right-click on the Internet icon on the taskbar, select the Troubleshoot option and wait for your computer to do its thing. The process is simple and fast, and it may be the solution you are looking for.
Maybe the problem is with your Internet provider
Sometimes if the WiFi is connected, but there is no Internet, the error may be with the Internet connection and not with any device. It could be due to broken cables, service interruptions, or just about anything else that is not under your control. That said, it is important to know if the problem lies with your Internet provider. For this, check if the Internet light on the modem works. Ideally, the power and DSL lights should be on. Also, check for anything unusual, such as constant flashing lights.
If the lights are not on or if you see flashing lights, contact your Internet service provider immediately, perhaps there is the problem and they can provide you with a prompt solution.