Ultimate Guide to Troubleshooting Chromebook Wi-Fi Disconnections

Have you ever experienced the frustration of your Chromebook keep disconnecting its WiFi connection at the worst possible time?

Furthermore, maybe you were in the middle of an important video call, or working on a deadline, or just trying to relax with some Netflix.

As a result, whatever the case, you’ve probably wondered why your Chromebook keeps disconnecting from WiFi and how to fix it.  

Consequently, here are some potential causes and solutions to address this annoying issue

• Poor Wi-Fi connection

• Automatic network switching

• Defective Wi-Fi card

• Network congestion

• Power-saving mode

• Outdated Chrome OS version

• No internet access

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the common causes in details and solutions for Chromebook WiFi disconnections.

Furthermore, we will also show you how to fix your Wi-Fi problems using some simple steps and tools.

Consequently, by the end of this post, you’ll have a better understanding of what causes your Chromebook to lose its WiFi connection and how to prevent it from happening again.

What is the reason that Chromebook keeps disconnecting from WiFi ?

There are several possible reasons why your Chromebook keeps disconnecting from the WiFi network, such as:

Automatic network switching: Firstly, your Chromebook can switch to another WiFi network with stronger signals if you have saved multiple networks on your device.

Poor Wi-Fi connection: Secondly, your Chromebook may lose connection if the WiFi signal is weak or unstable.

Defective Wi-Fi card: Thirdly, the WiFi card on your Chromebook may be defective or loose, causing connection issues.

Network congestion: Furthermore, your router may be overloaded with too many devices connected to the same WiFi network.

Power Saving Mode: Additionally, your Chromebook can disconnect from WiFi when it detects no activity to conserve battery life.

Outdated version of Chrome OS: Likewise, your Chromebook may have some software bugs or compatibility issues that affect WiFi performance.

No internet access: In last,your Chromebook may be connected to a Wi-Fi network that requires an additional sign-in step to access the Internet, such as in hotels or airports. You can search for captive portals by opening a new tab and visiting a website.

How to troubleshoot the Chromebook WiFi disconnection issue ?

If you own a Chromebook, you probably enjoy its fast performance, long battery life, and seamless integration with Google services.

However, you may also encounter some annoying WiFi issues that interrupt your online activities.

Furthermore, in this section, we will show you how to fix Chromebook disconnecting from WiFi issue and get back online in no time.

Follow below mentioned methods to solve the issue that Chromebook WiFi disconnection issue:  

Move closer to the router

Moving closer to the router can solve the problem of Chromebook disconnecting from WiFi because it can improve the signal strength and connection quality.

Furthermore, the farther your Chromebook is from the router, the weaker the Wi-Fi signal becomes. Likewise, this can cause intermittent connection drops or slow speeds.

Similarly, by reducing the distance between your Chromebook and the router, you can improve the stability and performance of your Wi-Fi connection.

Additionally, if you can’t bring your Chromebook or router closer, you can also use a Wi-Fi extender or network booster to amplify the router’s signal and extend its range.

Also Check: Why is Chromebook screen glitching ?

Try another Wi-Fi network  

Testing another WiFi network can help you identify the cause of Chromebook disconnecting WiFi, whether it is your Chromebook or the WiFi network that is faulty.

Furthermore, a Wi-Fi network may have changed its password, security protocol, or other settings, and your Chromebook may not be able to connect to it with the old settings.

Similarly, by trying another Wi-Fi network, you can update the network information and establish a stable connection.

Follow below mentioned steps try another Wi-Fi network on your Chromebook:

• First, click the network icon on the Chromebook taskbar, located in the lower right corner of the screen. It looks like a series of curved lines.

• Then, a list of available Wi-Fi networks will appear. Select a different network than the one you are currently connected to. If the network is password protected, enter the network credentials in the appropriate dialog boxes and click Connect.

• In the same manner, if you don’t have another Wi-Fi network nearby, you can use your phone’s hotspot as an alternative. Activate the hotspot feature on your phone and follow the same steps above to connect your Chromebook.

• Also, observe the network behavior for a few minutes and see if your Chromebook keeps disconnecting from Wi-Fi or not.

• Likewise, if your Chromebook can connect to another Wi-Fi network without any problems, then the problem is likely with the original Wi-Fi network. You may need to check network settings and configurations, update the router firmware, or reset the router to factory defaults.

• Conversely, if your Chromebook keeps disconnecting from other Wi-Fi networks, then the problem is with your device. You may need to update your Chrome OS, power wash your Chromebook, or check your Wi-Fi card for defects.

​Disconnect and reconnect network

Disconnecting and reconnecting to a WiFi network can resolve the issue of Chromebook disconnecting from WiFi because it can refresh the connection settings and clear up any temporary glitches.

Furthermore, sometimes the WiFi network may have changed its password, security protocol, or other settings, and your Chromebook may not be able to connect to it with the old settings.

Similarly, by disconnecting and reconnecting, you can update the network information and establish a stable connection.

Likewise, here are some steps to disconnect and reconnect to a Wi-Fi network on your Chromebook:

• First, click the network icon on the Chromebook taskbar, located in the lower right corner of the screen. It looks like a series of curved lines.

• Then, a list of available Wi-Fi networks will appear. Find the network you are currently connected to. It will have a check mark next to it.

• In the same manner, click the network name and select Disconnect from the drop-down menu.

• Also, wait a few seconds and then click the network name again. If the network is password protected, enter the network credentials in the appropriate dialog boxes and click Connect.

• Conversely, you can also use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+Alt+Shift+R to quickly disconnect and reconnect to the Wi-Fi network.

Disable Bluetooth or switch your router’s frequency band to 5 GHz

Chromebook disconnecting WiFi can be caused by interference from other devices on the 2.4 GHz band.

Disabling Bluetooth or changing your router’s frequency band to 5 GHz can help solve this issue.

• Furthermore, to turn off Bluetooth on your Chromebook, go to Settings > Bluetooth and turn off Bluetooth.

• Likewise, to change your router’s frequency band to 5 GHz, you may need to go to your router’s settings page and look for the option to change the wireless mode or channel. Similarly, check your router’s manual or website for more details.

• Additionally, you should also check to see if your Chromebook software is up to date. Go to Settings > About Chrome OS and click Check for updates. If an update is available, click Restart to update.

Also Check: How to pair AirPods to Chromebook ?

Check your router settings

Checking your router settings can help you troubleshoot the issue of Chromebook disconnecting WiFi by determining if your WiFi network is compatible with your Chromebook or if your router settings are interfering with your connection.

Furthermore, follow below mentioned steps to check your router settings:

• First, open a web browser on a device connected to the same network.

• Then, type your router’s IP address in the address bar and press Enter. You can find the IP address on your router’s label or in the user manual.

• Likewise, enter the username and password to access the router configuration page. You can use the default settings or get in touch with your Internet service provider if you are unsure of them.

• Similarly, find the wireless settings section and verify the following information:

• Also, the network name (SSID) and password (key) match what you use to connect your Chromebook.

• Likewise, the security type is one of those supported for Chromebooks, such as WEP, WPA, WPA2, or WPA3.

• Similarly, the wireless mode or channel is set to automatic or a specific value that works well with your Chromebook. You can try different values to see which one gives you the best signal strength and speed.

• In the same manner, save the changes you make and restart your router and Chromebook.

• Finally, try connecting to the Wi-Fi network again and see if the issue is resolved. If not try other methods to resolve the issue.

​Update the router firmware

Updating the router firmware can help you troubleshoot the issue of Chromebook disconnecting WiFi by fixing any bugs or compatibility issues that may interfere with your Wi-Fi connection.

Furthermore, follow below mentioned steps to update the router firmware:

• Firstly, find out your router’s IP address, username and password. You can check your router label or user manual for this information.

• Likewise, open a web browser on a device connected to the same network and type your router’s IP address in the address bar. To open the router configuration page, press Enter.

• Similarly, log in with your username and password and look for the firmware section. It may be in System, Administration, Maintenance, or Advanced Settings, depending on your router model.

• Likewise, download the latest firmware file from your router manufacturer’s website and save it to your device. Make sure you choose the correct file for your router model and version.

• Then, on the router configuration page, click the button to browse the firmware file and upload it to the router. Wait for the update process to complete and do not turn off the router or device during this time.

• Finally, once the update is done, restart the router and your Chromebook. Try connecting to the Wi-Fi network again and see if the issue is resolved.

Disconnect other devices

Disconnecting other devices from your Wi-Fi network can help you troubleshoot the issue of Chromebook disconnecting WiFi by reducing congestion and interference that could cause your connection to drop.

Furthermore, follow below mentioned steps to disconnect other devices from your Wi-Fi:

• Initially, identify the devices that are connected to your Wi-Fi network. You can check the list of connected devices on your router’s settings page or use a network scanner app on your phone or computer.

• Similarly, disconnect devices that you do not need or use at the moment. You can do this by turning off their Wi-Fi, putting them in airplane mode, or disconnecting them from the power source.

• Likewise, after disconnecting other devices, try reconnecting your Chromebook to the Wi-Fi network and see if the issue resolves.

Disconnect your VPN or proxy

Disconnecting your VPN or proxy can solve the issue of Chromebook keeps disconnecting from WiFi because some VPNs or proxy servers may interfere with your network settings or cause compatibility issues.

Furthermore, follow below mentioned steps to disconnect your VPN or proxy on your Chromebook.

• Firstly, open your device’s Settings.

• Then, under “Network,” click “VPN.”

• Similarly, choose the VPN or proxy to disconnect.

• Finally, click “Disconnect.”

Restart your router and Chromebook

Restarting your router and Chromebook can solve the issue of Chromebook keeps disconnecting from WiFi because it can eliminate any temporary glitches or cache issues that may be affecting your network settings or performance.

Furthermore, follow below mentioned steps to reset your router and Chromebook:

• Initially, unplug the power cord from the router, wait a few seconds, and plug it back in.

• Secondly, press and hold the power button on your Chromebook for a few seconds to force it to restart.

• Similarly, once both devices reboot, reconnect to your Wi-Fi network and enter the correct password.

• In last, check if your Chromebook can now access the Internet over the Wi-Fi network. If not try other troubleshooting steps.

​Disable preferred networks

Disabling preferred networks can solve the issue of Chromebook keeps disconnecting from WiFi because it can prevent your Chromebook from switching to a different network that might have a weaker signal or a different password.

Follow below mentioned steps to disable preferred networks on your Chromebook:

• First, ensure that you have a Wi-Fi connection.

• Second, at the bottom right, select the time and then Settings.

• Similarly, in the “Network” section, select Wi-Fi and then Known Networks.

• Then, click the three-dot button next to a preferred network and select Remove from preferred.

• Finally, repeat this for any other preferred networks you want to disable.

Update your Chromebook to the latest version

Updating your Chromebook to the latest version can solve the issue of Chromebook keeps disconnecting from WiFi because it may fix some bugs or compatibility issues that could affect your network settings or performance.

Follow below mentioned steps to update your Chromebook in no time:

• First, connect to Wi-Fi and go to Settings > About ChromeOS.

• Next, select Check for updates and wait for the download to finish.

• Finally, select Restart to update and restart your Chromebook.

Check for captive portals that require an extra sign-in step

Searching for captive portals can solve the issue of Chromebook keeps disconnecting from WiFi because some WiFi networks require you to sign in or agree to the terms of service before you can access the Internet.

Furthermore, follow below mentioned steps to find captive portals on your Chromebook:

• Initially, connect to the Wi-Fi network and open a web browser.

• Next, type the URL of a captive portal, such as http://neverssl.com or http://captive.apple.com, in the address bar and press Enter.

• Then, if you see a login page or terms of service page, follow the instructions to complete the process.

• Alternatively, if you don’t see any pages, try another captive portal URL or refresh the page.

• Finally, after signing in or agreeing to the terms of service, check if your Chromebook can now access the Internet over the WiFi network.

Reset your router to the default settings  

Resetting your router to default settings can solve the issue of Chromebook keeps disconnecting from WiFi because you can restore the original network settings and eliminate any errors or conflicts that may be affecting your connection.

Furthermore, follow below mentioned steps to reset your router shortly:

• Initially, look for the reset button on the back or bottom of your router. It is usually a small hole that needs to be pressed with a pin or paper clip.

• Next, press and hold the reset button for about 10 seconds until the router lights flash.

• Then, wait for the router to reboot and then reconnect your Chromebook to the Wi-Fi network using the default network name and password. You can find them on the label of your router or in the user manual.

• Alternatively, if you want to change the network name, password, or other settings, you must access the router’s configuration page using a web browser and the router’s IP address.

• Finally, check your router’s manual or website for more details.

Powerwash your Chromebook

Power washing your Chromebook can solve the problem of Chromebook keeps disconnecting from WiFi because it can erase all local data and settings that could cause network problems.

Furthermore, follow below mentioned steps to power wash your Chromebook:

• Initially, sign out of your Chromebook user account

• Next, hold Ctrl + Alt + Shift + R

• Then, click Restart

• Subsequently, when prompted, select Powerwash > Continue

• Finally, follow the on-screen steps to create a new user account

Look for a Wi-Fi switch at the back of your Chromebook

Some Chromebooks have a physical switch that lets you turn Wi-Fi on or off.

This switch can affect Chromebook disconnecting WiFi. If the switch is off, your Chromebook will not be able to connect to any wireless networks.

Furthermore, follow below mentioned steps to switch on physical switch in your Chromebook:

• Initially, locate the Wi-Fi switch on your Chromebook. It is usually on the side or back of the device and has an antenna icon.

• Next, slide or press the switch to the on position. You should see a blue or green light indicating that Wi-Fi is enabled.

• Finally, try connecting to your Wi-Fi network again and enter the correct password.

Make sure Wi-Fi is enabled in your Chromebook

Making sure Wi-Fi is enabled on your Chromebook can solve the issue of Chromebook keeps disconnecting from WiFi because sometimes Wi-Fi can be accidentally turned off by a physical switch or a software switch.

Furthermore, follow below mentioned steps to enable Wi-Fi on your Chromebook:

• Initially, press the Wi-Fi key on your keyboard or click the network icon in the lower right corner of the screen.

• Next, turn on the Wi-Fi toggle and select your network.

• Finally, enter your password and log in.

Contact your Chromebook manufacturer

To begin with, contacting your Chromebook manufacturer can help you resolve your Chromebook’s WiFi disconnection issue by providing technical support, warranty service, or hardware replacement.

Furthermore, depending on the model and problem, your manufacturer may be able to offer a solution via phone, online chat, or email.

In addition, you can find the contact information for your Chromebook manufacturer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, several factors can cause Chromebook disconnecting WiFi, such as automatic network switching, poor Wi-Fi connection, faulty Wi-Fi card, network congestion, power saving mode, outdated version of Chrome OS or lack of Internet access, as we have seen in this article.

Furthermore, to fix these issues, you can try some simple solutions, such as moving closer to the router, trying another Wi-Fi network, resetting Wi-Fi settings, updating your Chrome OS, or contacting customer support.

Likewise, by following these steps, you can enjoy a stable and fast Wi-Fi connection on your Chromebook and avoid interruptions to your online activities.

Frequently Asked Question’s (FAQ’s)