Windows 11 24H2 Update: How to Fix Network Connectivity Issues

On October 30, 2024, users reported various network connectivity problems following the update to Windows 11 version 24H2. If you've recently updated your system and find that your internet connection is less reliable than a sputtering soda machine, you're not alone. The culprit appears to be the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) feature, which seems to have taken a vacation—or worse, malfunctioned entirely. Lucky for you, we’ve got a series of troubleshooting steps that may get your network back on track.

Understanding the Issue​

What's DHCP Anyway?
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol is a handy networking protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on your network. However, the 24H2 update has seemingly kicked DHCP off its pedestal, leading to connectivity mishaps. The problem may lie not just in your PC’s failure to acquire an IP address from the DHCP server, but also in the DHCP server itself potentially misconfiguring addresses.

Step-by-Step Fixes​

Here are practical solutions that might help rectify your networking woes:

Tip 1: Query the IP Address Again​

Your first stop is the command line. Here’s how to release and renew your IP address:

1. Open Terminal as Administrator:
   • Right-click the Start menu.
   • Select Terminal (Admin).
2. Enter the following commands:
   

   bash ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew

   While this fix might feel trivial, it could just work—after all, it’s easier than trying to convince your router to play nice.

Tip 2: Set Static DNS Servers​

If DHCP is being temperamental, let’s take matters into our own hands:

1. Open Network Connections:
   • Search for "View network connections" in the Start menu.
   • Right-click on your active connection, select Properties.
2. Modify DNS Settings:
   • Double-click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
   • Select Use the following DNS server addresses.
   • Enter 8.8.8.8 (Google DNS) as preferred, and 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare) as the alternate.
   • Click OK, and see if the internet fairy has come back to your device.

Tip 3: Set a Static IP Address​

If setting DNS did nothing but tickle your fancy:

1. Back in the IPv4 Properties, you can set a static IP.
2. Choose Use the following IP address.
3. Enter a suitable IP, subnet, and gateway. You can find your PC's current IP using ipconfig.

Tip 4: Reset the Network Settings​

Still no joy? It might be time to hit the reset button:

1. Go to Settings:
   • Use the Windows key + I shortcut.
   • Navigate to Network & internet > Advanced network settings.
2. Scroll to Network reset and follow prompts.

Reboot your machine and see if network connectivity has returned.

Tip 5: Reinstall Network Adapter Driver​

As a last resort, you might want to reinstall your network adapter driver:

1. Open the Start menu and type devmgmt.msc to access Device Manager.
2. Locate Network adapters, right-click your adapter, and select Update driver.
3. Choose Browse my computer for drivers, and then Let me pick from a list of available drivers.

Closing Thoughts​

While these steps might seem straightforward, they are the bread and butter of network troubleshooting for Windows users. If these suggestions don't do the trick, your last option might be rolling back to a previous version of Windows—because sometimes, if it ain't broke, you shouldn’t fix it! Keep your chin up; technology has its hiccups just like we do, and with these handy tips, you’ll be surfing the web smoothly in no time.
Feel free to join the conversation on the forum if you have insights or other tips! Your fellow Windows users might benefit from your experience.
Source: PCWorld Try fixing your Windows 11 24H2 network issues with these steps