If your internet isn’t working, disable and re-enable the connection to reset network-specific functionality without restarting your computer. This reset can resolve specific network issues, just as a full reboot would. This guide will show you how to disable and re-enable a network connection on any device running Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, or XP.

You can disable and re-enable network connections through the Control Panel.

In Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista, select Network & Internet. Alternatively, right-click the Internet icon in the taskbar (next to the clock) and select Open Network & Internet settings.

In Windows XP, go to Category view, select Network and Internet Connections > Network Connections, and then proceed to step 4.