Quick answer: Turn Wi-Fi off for a clean test, try a known-good cable and router port, then check whether Ethernet receives a valid IP address before resetting networking.
When Wi-Fi works but Ethernet does not, focus on the cable, link lights, adapter, IP address, gateway, and network profile. Work through one test at a time so the result identifies the layer that is failing.
Why this happens
The best clue is the boundary of the problem: one file or every file, one device or several, one network or every network. Note when it began and any update, hardware change, permission prompt, or account alert that happened just before it.
- The cable or router port has no physical link.
- Ethernet has a self-assigned address because DHCP failed.
- A static IP, VPN filter, or old virtual adapter conflicts with the gateway.
- The exact Ethernet or dock driver is missing or power-managed.
Fix it in the safest order
- Disable Wi-Fi temporarily and inspect link lights on the PC, dock, and router.
- Test a known-good cable and a different LAN port.
- Run Windows network status or ipconfig and look for a valid local address, gateway, and DNS.
- Remove an unintended static address and renew DHCP; pause VPN software for one controlled test.
- Install the PC or dock maker’s Ethernet and chipset driver, then test without the dock if possible.
Repeat the same small test after each change. Keep a note of the original setting so you can restore it if the change does not help.
How to confirm the fix
Ethernet should receive the expected local address and load several websites after two reconnects with Wi-Fi disabled.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not bridge Wi-Fi and Ethernet as a troubleshooting shortcut.
- Do not download a generic driver updater.
- Do not reset the router before testing cable, port, and DHCP.
FAQ
What does an address beginning with 169.254 mean?
It usually means Windows did not receive an address from the router’s DHCP service, so check the link, cable, port, VLAN, and DHCP path.
Should I reset or reinstall everything?
No. A factory reset destroys useful evidence and is rarely the first step. Back up important data, test a second file, account, network, or device, and use the narrowest reset that matches the confirmed cause.
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