Lost internet connection after 11 Pro update. Moving on to Linux Mint

Sorry, this is going to be a rant, and I hope you don't mind if I use ElevenForum to get it all out. I have seen a number of complaints of losing internet connection after Windows update, which also happened to me. In my case, Windows 11 Pro. I tried everything to restore Internet, including, troubleshooting through Windows, sfc /scannow, DISM (which apparently needs an Internet connection to work), tried DISM using ISO, tried repair install using ISO, checked to see if registry issues, installed latest Broadcom Ethernet driver, used an Ethernet USB adapter, various terminal commands to reset internet, etc., Safe Mode, clean boot before trying to install from ISO, unplugged peripherals, deleted migration folder in Windows folder, and tried to use a restore point, and probably a couple of other things that I'm forgetting--Nothing worked. I have pretty much lost all patience with Windows.

The only reason I will use Windows going forward is if I have no choice because I need certain apps for work. Otherwise, I want to ditch Windows altogether. Many years ago, I had a problem with Windows 7 where, after an update, it was pretty much gone--except I was able to get it up and running after 3 days of searching the internet on a laptop trying various potential fixes. Thanks to the many knowledgeable people out there who care enough to give simpletons like me information that can eventually restore Windows, I was able to get 7 up and running. But there has been two or three other times that I have run into major issues with Microsoft updates, which have now brought me to the point that I want to be completely done with Windows. A couple of years ago, another update literally deleted all contents in my Documents folder--and I mean deleted, as in unrecoverable. Maybe they were hidden somewhere. The point is, this should not happen. I know some may be inclined to think it had to be a virus, but google it and you will see others have had the same experience. I am tired of wondering if the next Windows update will do damage or simply make me once again have to work to try to get Windows working again. I thought I had a backup image because I do make image backups from time-to-time, but I can't find it. I have a couple of multi-terrabite hard drives where it might be--or maybe not. Regardless, Windows has worn me out.

I am now using latest Linux Mint with a clean install of Windows 11 Pro for those apps that I need for work on a daily basis. I decided to install Mint in dual boot along side the broken Windows 11 Pro. I can see the Windows files when I boot into Mint in a separate folder. Instead of using VMware or Virtualbox, I'm instead using WinBoat. So far, this virtualization app has been impressive. Overall, I think it is as good or better than Virtualbox. I have used VMware for a short period of time and I think I would still prefer WinBoat. If you ever want to go to Linux, I would recommend taking a look at WinBoat. I am not affiliated. I will now see which apps can work on Mint using Wine, PlayOnLinux, Bottles, and I may be CrossOver. Hopefully, I will be able to completely move on from Windows in the near future.

Congratulations?

Windows loves to optimize everything, but for the most reliable connection, especially on WiFi (IPv6 kills it):

1. Setup static IP and DNS
2. Disable everything, but IPv4
3. TCP Optimizer




To get rock stable connection on ethernet (not WiFi), you can disable "Network Store Interface Service", but it has some trade offs.

MAXcaliber said:

If you ever want to go to Linux, I would recommend taking a look at WinBoat.

Click to expand...

Thanks for the tip, I definitely do consider it, since Windows is getting worse and worse and I can not keep up.

Hi TairikuOkami,
I did try a static IP and disabled IPv6 in Properties, and also manually assigned primary DNS to Google and tried Cloudflare, rebooted on each, and nothing. Thanks for reminding me. I figured I would forget a couple of other things I tried. Nothing worked. I also tried to delete Broadcom Ethernet in Device Manager and then just disable Ethernet and then tried a USB to Ethernet adapter, but nothing. The adapters do work because I have used another brand for a laptop and it works flawlessly, which also has Windows 11 Pro installed. The adapter did show in Device Manager and reported as working, yet, no Internet connection. I haven't update the laptop because I primarily use the i9-14900KF desktop you see in my specs. So, it didn't get the update attention like the desktop. Needless to say, I have paused updates in the laptop.

Another one I forgot to mention is that I uninstalled a couple of Windows updates--one the latest 25H2 update which seems to have started the Ethernet problems, and a security update, reported as causing problems, to see if it would trigger Ethernet to work. Uninstalling updates became one of the last resorts because I don't want to uninstall anything if I don't have to. I also uninstalled a few apps I thought might be causing a conflict, but nothing. The working Sager laptop does not have a couple of the updates that the desktop has. I used command line to install the security updated. Again, last resort because I didn't want to uninstall system updates which could further complicate things.

It seems like rather than diagnosing the problem and fixing it, you just threw random things at it. When people do that, it almost invariably
makes the problem worse. If you approach problems the same way in Linux or macOS or whatever, you’re going to have a bad time there as well.

Also, disabling IPv6 is a horrible idea in Windows.

pseymour said:

It seems like rather than diagnosing the problem and fixing it, you just threw random things at it. When people do that, it almost invariably
makes the problem worse. If you approach problems the same way in Linux or macOS or whatever, you’re going to have a bad time there as well.

Also, disabling IPv6 is a horrible idea in Windows.

Click to expand...

What I did is what 99% of people do when it's unclear why a Windows problem exists. I know about log files, but most do not deal with Windows problems by going to log files. And going to log files does not guarantee a fix. I see posts in forums where log files can lead to an understanding of the situation but not provide sufficient information to lead to a fix. But more to the point, I wish Microsoft would fix the problems with its updates before unleashing them, so we, the end users, don't have to suffer through the often-devastating effects they inflict. In fact, the 25H2 update, which I suspected caused the problem, is being cited as causing Wi-Fi and other network issues. There is nothing wrong with using Windows troubleshooting and trying sfc /scannow, DISM, etc. Also, when I attempted to do a repair using an ISO, Windows provided error codes and text information indicating what might be the problem(s). Accordingly, I went to forums to see what was being said about the error message(s)/code(s) and took advice to see if I could fix the problem--which is what 99.9% of home users do when trying to diagnose a Windows problem and trying to determine a fix. So, your criticisms of my efforts are not just aimed at me, they are aimed at pretty much everyone. Nice One! So, Windows was doing some diagnosing as I was attempting to fix. How many times have you suggested or have seen it suggested to do a clean install of Windows (regardless of version) due to issues that are not being solved. I didn't just throw "random things" at the problem. One of the core problems with Windows is that there are too many "random" problems that are sometimes difficult to fix, if at all. By the way, I disabled IPv6 because it was suggested as a potential means to determine what could be causing network failure. It is completely acceptable to try unusual methods to try to determine where a problem exists. In fact, due to Windows unpredictability and endless bugs, end users are often put in a position where they are willing to try anything to get Windows back up and running. Sometimes the fix is unexpected or something discovered rather than arrived at by a logical step-by-step process.

As far as Linux, I have been using Linux Mint on a laptop for about 3 years for accessing Office 365 online, particularly Outlook, during which, I have updated and upgraded it regularly. Over that time, I have never experienced one crash or one problem caused by a Mint update or upgrade. And Mint updates are consistent, even more updates than Windows. My first experience with Linux was back in 1998 when I purchased it from a CompUSA store for about $45. Then, it was sold retail in a box just link Windows. Over the years I have used Linux off and on, but I always stuck with Windows as my main operating system--for obvious reasons. I get it that there are die-hard Microsoft fans and Windows users. There is nothing wrong with it! But I'm wondering how many more times I have to get slapped around by Windows updates that cause nothing but stress and aggravation before I take a serious look at Linux as my main operating system. That time is here. It’s not because I hate Microsoft or hate Windows, it’s because I no longer have the patience to deal with Windows issues, some of which break the operating system.

What entries are there in Reliability History ?
To access it,in the Search box start typing ---reliability ---

No way am I reading that lengthy diatribe @MAXcaliber . Good luck with Linux.

pseymour said:

No way am I reading that lengthy diatribe @MAXcaliber . Good luck with Linux.

Click to expand...

TED talks have gone down hill since I was last at one.

antspants said:

TED talks have gone down hill since I was last at one.

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Well, TED did teach me both the proper way to tie my shoes and to dry my hands, so there's that.

The funny thing to me is when you have a problem with any linux distro, good luck finding a search result online that helps you solve the problem. And if you do, you better understand what they are saying, because if you dont you can really mess something up.

At least with windows there are multiple avenues to find or fix something.

It does suck to have issues for sure. I hope mint treats you well.

I will say I personally have not had windows "break" since like windows xp before service pack 2 existed.

Even during my career in IT so far, I never had a windows machine just simply be completely broken where it wont boot or something because of a windows update. Some problems have certainly come around with windows updates for sure, but nothing so drastic that it wasn't easily fixed. No update mechanism is perfect.

I will say, the more you tinker with windows with 3rd party software the more likely it will break. That is just a fact. A lot of the people I have seen over the years that have constant issues are using stuff like norton antivirus, third party tools like ccleaner, tools that alter windows in some way etc.

Windows is already a ship with duct tape keeping it afloat, adding tweaks and things doesn't surprise me that they add a hole or two for water to get in.

To me, it honestly is impressive windows works as well as it does, considering the backwards compatibility, third party drivers and everything else.

Mac os, Linux etc were designed from the ground up to be secure and stable by default, as well as being better implemented. Windows has had to constantly fix the ship as it sails.

It also fully depends on your need for a computer, what are you doing on it? Most people would be fine with an ipad or chromebook. A lot of them don't need a full fledged operating system like windows or linux.

Just my 2 cents.

@andrew129260

Linux does have ability to fix boot problems and assorted other issues including reinstalling system files from command line and USB. I don’t know how available information is to troubleshoot Linux because I have never experienced a need to do so.

I agree that the more apps installed in Windows, particularly cleaner apps, or any app that tinkers or competes with Windows native programming increases chances of major problems, which is why I decided to uninstall a few apps to see if they were the culprit in breaking Windows for me. Such as, apps that replace Windows Start menu or background images. But after uninstalling, no difference. I have had problems with Windows updates that are unexplainable as to how something I installed could have caused the problem. So, problems with Windows updates are caused by Microsoft, then one should be cautious when it comes third-party apps.

As far as the 25H2 update, which is reportedly causing WiFi and general network problems, and stability issues, reports indicate problems are widespread, which is certainly not the first time an update created widespread problems. Given the amount of crap (a/k/a bloatware) Microsoft has installed in Windows, I agree it is impressive Microsoft somehow keeps it running. I think they are geniuses for being able to make Windows 11 a functioning operating system. I mean, seriously. Good overall job with making Windows work quite well. And on the flip side, Linux Mint has little to no bloat, no integrated spyware (that I know of), or other assorted crap that makes it susceptible to catastrophic malfunctions. In other words, less can be better. Btw, one reason I’m now more inclined to move on from Windows is Microsoft’s persistent monitoring and/or desire to monitor everything I do with its operating system. It’s not that I’m involved in illicit activity, but I would think it offends most that some corporation essentially does everything it can to monitor and log everything end users do. The constant update issues is the main problem for me, but then the intrusive and scummy manner Microsoft monitors and gathers personal information is just another good reason to say goodbye to Microsoft—at least, dump their operating system—hopefully completely in the near future.

Actually, those responsible over the years for Linux (Mint) have had a deliberate strategy of not rolling out quick changes in order to protect the stability of the operating system, which is why it seems to never change. Visually, it’s generally the same look and feel today as it was 20 years ago. But again, less can be better when it comes to less aggravation. From what I have read and seen on YouTube, people are turning away from Windows.

Below is a quote found on Google:

Windows has lost over 15% of its userbase over the last decade, with its global desktop market share dropping from over 86% in 2015 to around 67%–70% by early 2026. While still dominant, Windows has faced a long-term decline, losing share to macOS, Linux, and the rise of mobile-first computing.

Click to expand...

This is a good thing, in my opinion.

Reference Post 7.
What results ?

andrew129260 said:

I will say, the more you tinker with windows with 3rd party software the more likely it will break. That is just a fact. A lot of the people I have seen over the years that have constant issues are using stuff like norton antivirus, third party tools like ccleaner, tools that alter windows in some way etc.

Windows is already a ship with duct tape keeping it afloat, adding tweaks and things doesn't surprise me that they add a hole or two for water to get in.

Click to expand...

To me, personally, it's mostly about knowing what works and what doesn't. Finding all the right places to learn and to build on experience is always the key. The Windows userbase is big enough to make that possible. The only real downside is that there also exists a lot of outdated and incomplete/faulty information out there. Trial-and-error still plays a very important role. As does learning to recognize misinformation based on what one already knows. Doing a lot of fact-checking, and doing it properly. To verify that one's conceptions are still correct, and to build rigorous strategies over time while also re-evaluating these strategies when re-evaluation may be necessary.

Yes, of course bad software often tends to break various stuff more easily than Botch Tuesdays. But no, not all third-party software is evil. I know plenty of third-party software applications, tools, and utilities that actually helped me save my bacon on more than several occasions.

Without this particular type of software, I probably wouldn't be on Windows right now. And this also includes tweak/maintenance software to "tinker" like Open-Shell, ExplorerPatcher, Windhawk, portable MiniTool Partition Wizard Free, Driver Store Explorer (RAPR), Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU), Better ClearType Tuner, OfflineReg, Ventoy used together with the bootable Rescue Media ISO of Acronis True Image, rEFInd to chainload iPXE with a custom script, etc., just to name only a few examples.

I have a bit of a knack for the kind of stuff that prevents me from getting in trouble on Windows. You don't like the fact that File Explorer with tabs bugs keeps giving you a bad headache? Then apply the tweak that brings back the classic File Explorer of Windows 10. Problem solved. You don't like the bugs that plague the Windows 11 taskbar? Use ExplorerPatcher for that one too. Two problems solved. I could go on, but I think I already made my point.

joeandmarg0 said:

Reference Post 7.
What results ?

Click to expand...

Sorry, but I'm not able to boot into Windows at this point. I will see if it can be salvaged by using a USB to repair. Thank you for the information though. I would like to salvage Windows, but not sure it's going to happen.

Just to add one more fix to the list:

If your wired network is suddenly not working and you have tried everything else, check to see if the adapter
is still showing up in device manager. Regardless, the oddball fix is to pull the power cord, pop out the cmos battery,
make sure it is good, hold the power button down for 20sec, pop a good battery back in and boot it up.
Check that the adapter is now showing in device manager. Install a driver if needed.

This has fixed more than one "no wired internet" situation.

tns1 said:

Just to add one more fix to the list:

If your wired network is suddenly not working and you have tried everything else, check to see if the adapter
is still showing up in device manager. Regardless, the oddball fix is to pull the power cord, pop out the cmos battery,
make sure it is good, hold the power button down for 20sec, pop a good battery back in and boot it up.
Check that the adapter is now showing in device manager. Install a driver if needed.

This has fixed more than one "no wired internet" situation.

Click to expand...

I might just give this a shot... My wired also stopped a few updates ago... It should be working but shows nothing plugged in.. I went to wifi after a few hours... Than added USB to cat 6..