How to reset your network adapter (Winsock Reset)

If your modem's default gateway address is starting with “169.254”, then resetting your network adapter to default settings may help fix the issue.

This process may also be known as a "winsock reset", or "comms reinstall".

Select one of the links below to jump to a query:

Winsock Reset for Windows

  1. Click the Search icon (magnifying glass) in the bottom left-hand corner of the screen and type "cmd" into the search bar. 

    Windows 10 Winsock reset 1

  2. Right-click on the Command Prompt app and select Run as administrator.
    You may need to enter an administrator password before you can continue. 

    Windows 10 Winsock reset 2

  3. Type “netsh winsock reset” and then hit Enter on your keyboard.

    You’ll see the message “Winsock reset completed successfully” when it's done.

    Windows 10 Winsock reset 3

  4. Restart your computer to finish.

Network restart for macOS

Mac OSX and macOS don't have Winsock, but you can try restarting your network.

  1. Hit the Network icon in the top right-hand corner, then select Turn Wi-Fi/Airport Off.

    Mac Airport reset 1

  2. Wait 1-2 minutes, then hit Network > Turn Wi-Fi/AirPort On. 

    Mac Airport reset 2

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