The three ways to connect: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or mobile hotspot

Most computers connect to the internet through one of three methods: Wi-Fi (wireless), Ethernet (a cable plugged into your computer and router), or a mobile hotspot (using your phone's data connection). Wi-Fi is the most common for home use because it works from anywhere in range of your router. Ethernet is faster and more stable but requires a cable run to your computer. A mobile hotspot works anywhere you have phone signal but uses your phone's data plan.

Your choice depends on what equipment you have, where your computer sits, and how much speed you need. A laptop in your living room will typically use Wi-Fi. A desktop in a home office might use Ethernet if the router is nearby. A laptop at a coffee shop will use the café's Wi-Fi or your phone's hotspot.

Key Takeaways

  • Wi-Fi requires your computer to have a wireless adapter (built into most modern laptops and desktops) and a router within range.
  • Ethernet requires an Ethernet cable and an Ethernet port on your computer, but gives you faster and more stable speeds than Wi-Fi.
  • A mobile hotspot turns your phone into a wireless router and works anywhere you have cell signal, but counts against your phone's data plan.
  • Once connected, your computer should automatically stay connected to the same network each time you power on, unless you change your password or move out of range.

Connecting via Wi-Fi on Windows

Click the network icon in the bottom right corner of your taskbar—it looks like a fan or radio waves. A list of available networks will appear. Find your router's name (called the SSID) and click it. If the network is password-protected, a box will ask you to enter the password. Type it exactly as it was set up, including capital letters and numbers, then click Connect.

Once you see "Connected" next to your network name, open a web browser and try visiting a website like google.com. If the page loads, you are connected. If a login page appears instead, you may need to enter a username and password for a public network (like at a library or hotel).

If your network does not appear in the list, your router may be too far away, turned off, or broadcasting its name as hidden. Move closer to the router and try again. If it is still not there, restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in.

Connecting via Wi-Fi on Mac

Click the Wi-Fi icon in the top right corner of your menu bar—it looks like radio waves. A dropdown menu shows available networks. Click your router's name and enter the password when prompted. The Wi-Fi icon will fill in once you are connected.

Open a web browser and visit google.com to confirm the connection works. If you see a login page instead, you are on a public network that requires you to sign in through a browser first.

If your network does not appear, move closer to the router and click "Scan" at the bottom of the network list. If it still does not show up, restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds.

Connecting via Ethernet cable

Plug one end of an Ethernet cable into the port on the back or side of your computer. It looks like a phone jack but slightly wider. Plug the other end into an available port on your router—these are usually on the back and labeled with numbers like 1, 2, 3, or 4. Do not plug into the port labeled "Internet" or "WAN," as that is where the cable from your internet provider connects.

Most computers recognize an Ethernet connection automatically and connect within a few seconds. You should see a wired connection icon appear in your network settings. Open a web browser and visit google.com to test the connection. Ethernet is typically faster than Wi-Fi and does not drop out if you move around, so it is ideal for gaming, video calls, or large file downloads.

If the connection does not work, try a different port on the router. If none of the ports work, the cable may be damaged—try a different Ethernet cable if you have one available.

Using your phone as a mobile hotspot

A mobile hotspot lets your computer connect to the internet through your phone's cellular data. On an iPhone, go to Settings, then Cellular, then Personal Hotspot, and turn it on. Your phone will display a Wi-Fi network name and password. On an Android phone, go to Settings, then Network & Internet, then Hotspot & Tethering, and turn on Wi-Fi Hotspot.

On your computer, connect to your phone's hotspot network the same way you would connect to any Wi-Fi network—find it in your available networks list, enter the password, and click Connect. Your computer will now use your phone's data plan to access the internet.

Keep in mind that using a hotspot consumes your phone's data allowance quickly, especially if you are streaming video or downloading large files. Most phone plans have a monthly data limit, and exceeding it can slow your speeds or cost extra money. Hotspots are best for occasional use or when Wi-Fi and Ethernet are not available.

Troubleshooting a connection that keeps dropping

If your Wi-Fi connection disconnects frequently, move your computer closer to the router. Walls, metal objects, and other electronics can weaken the signal. If moving is not possible, consider switching to Ethernet for a more stable connection.

Restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. This often fixes temporary connection problems. If the problem persists, restart your computer as well. If you are still having trouble, log into your router's settings (usually by typing 192.168.1.1 into a web browser) and check that the Wi-Fi is turned on and broadcasting its name.

If only one website or service is slow or not working, the problem is likely not your connection—it may be that website's server. Try visiting a different website to confirm your internet is working. If multiple websites are slow, contact your internet provider to check whether there is an outage in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a password to connect to Wi-Fi?

Most home Wi-Fi networks are password-protected for security. Public networks at libraries, cafés, or hotels may not require a password, or they may ask you to enter your email address or agree to terms before connecting. Your router's default password is usually printed on a sticker on the back of the device.

What is the difference between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi?

5 GHz is faster but has a shorter range and does not pass through walls as well as 2.4 GHz. If your router broadcasts both, use 5 GHz if you are close to the router and need speed, and 2.4 GHz if you are far away or in another room. Most modern routers handle this automatically.

Can I use both Ethernet and Wi-Fi at the same time?

Yes, but your computer will prioritize one over the other. Ethernet is usually prioritized because it is faster and more stable. If you want to use Wi-Fi instead, you can disable Ethernet in your network settings, though this is rarely necessary.

Why does my computer say "no internet" even though I am connected to the network?

Being connected to a network does not always mean you have internet access. The router itself may not be connected to your internet provider, or there may be an outage. Restart your router and modem (the device your internet provider gave you) by unplugging both for 30 seconds. If the problem continues, contact your internet provider.

How do I find my Wi-Fi password if I forgot it?

Log into your router's settings by typing 192.168.1.1 into a web browser. You will need the router's username and password, which are usually printed on a sticker on the back. Once logged in, look for a section called Wireless, Wi-Fi, or Security to find your network password. If you cannot access the router settings, you can reset it by holding the reset button for 10 seconds, but this will erase all your settings.