# How to solve the ‘Unidentified network’ error in Windows

If you get the error message `Unidentified network´ in Windows, it usually means that you have no internet access. This can be for trivial reasons such as loose cables or an incorrectly assigned IP address, but it can also be due to a problem with the router or the DHCP server. Possible solutions range from reassigning an IP address to restarting the network adapters.

The error message `Unidentified network´ always appears when there is no internet access or connection to the [network](https://www.ionos.co.uk/digitalguide/server/know-how/what-is-a-network/ "What is a network?"). The error can be detected when you are unable to connect to the internet and this message appears on the network icon in the taskbar. You can also find the error message in the **`Network and Sharing Centre**´ in the Windows Control Panel. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to give a general reason for this error as it varies from case to case. For example, Windows may have assigned an **incorrect IP address** to your computer. A not found DHCP server, a problem with network adapters or the fact that the [DNS server is not responding](https://www.ionos.co.uk/digitalguide/server/know-how/dns-server-not-responding-whats-next/ "DNS server not responding – what’s next?") can also be responsible.

If you have no internet access, it doesn’t necessarily indicate a major problem. To rule out overlooking the simplest solution, try the following two methods first:

- **Restart your computer or router:** Restarting is sometimes the quickest solution because it may only be a temporary issue. If the problem doesn’t resolve itself, turn off your router for at least 20 seconds by unplugging it. As soon as you reconnect it to the mains, it will restart itself.
- **Check cables or reconnect LAN cable:** Check that the router and all cables are plugged in correctly. If you connect by cable via [LAN](https://www.ionos.co.uk/digitalguide/server/know-how/lan/), you can try to reconnect the cables at the mainboard. The latter should have two LAN ports (RJ-45).

If this doesn’t fix the connection problems, try the following solutions:


This is a markdown version of: [https://www.ionos.co.uk/digitalguide/server/configuration/unidentified-network/](https://www.ionos.co.uk/digitalguide/server/configuration/unidentified-network/) for AI/LLM consumption.