Can't load any websites even though connected to the internet

Symptoms

• Device shows connected to Wi-Fi or Ethernet with signal but no page loads
• Error messages mention DNS, timeout, or 'can't reach this page'
• Apps that don't rely on a browser (like some games or streaming apps) may still work while browsers fail
• Problem is the same across multiple browsers on the same device

Likely causes

• CommonDNS resolution failureThe connection to the internet may be technically fine, but without working DNS, website names can't be translated to addresses.
• CommonRouter or modem needs a restartA stuck router can maintain a local Wi-Fi connection while failing to properly pass traffic to the internet.
• PossibleRecent, brief provider outage not yet reflected in connection status indicatorsA device can still show 'connected' even during a brief upstream outage since it only checks the local link.
• PossibleBrowser-specific cache or extension issueA corrupted cache or a misbehaving extension can block all sites in one specific browser.

What to do

1. Try loading a website's numeric IP address directly (searchable online) to check whether it's a DNS-specific problem versus a full outage.
2. Restart the router and modem.
3. Try a different browser on the same device to rule out a browser-specific issue.
4. Try a different device on the same network to see if the problem is specific to one device or affects the whole network.
5. Clear the browser's cache and disable extensions temporarily, especially ad blockers or VPN extensions, and retest.
6. Change the device or router's DNS server to a public option like 8.8.8.8 or 1.1.1.1.
7. If nothing loads on any device or browser even after these steps, treat it as a connectivity issue and follow the 'no internet connection' troubleshooting steps, including checking for an outage.

When to call a pro

Not usually needed unless the underlying cause turns out to be an ISP-side outage or line fault, in which case contact your provider.

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