network diagnosis

Internet Says Connected but Websites Do Not Load

Use a focused DeviceOK test first, then follow the evidence from browser/device state before changing drivers, firmware, or hardware.

Reviewed 2026-08-11
What this symptom tells you

the device appears online but web pages fail or stall

This symptom concerns the network path. Start with a neutral DeviceOK test where available so the next step is based on evidence rather than a generic reset sequence.

Collect evidence →
Before you change anything

Do not jump to the most invasive fix

Avoid destructive resets, unofficial driver packages, firmware flashing, or replacing hardware before the simpler detection, permission, connection and configuration checks are exhausted.

What success looks like

Retest the same condition

After every meaningful change, repeat the same test under the same conditions and compare the result.

First 3 checks

Rule out the simple causes

  1. 1

    Run DeviceOK Online Status Test.

  2. 2

    Open one other known-good website and compare.

  3. 3

    Temporarily disable a VPN/proxy only if you know how to restore it.

Evidence-led sequence

Work through the problem in order

  1. 1

    If DeviceOK loads and its ping endpoint responds, the browser has working connectivity to at least this service.

  2. 2

    If only one site fails, investigate that service, DNS filtering, browser extensions, or account/network restrictions.

  3. 3

    If many sites fail, restart the network connection/router and inspect DNS/VPN/firewall settings.

If it works in DeviceOK

If the matching DeviceOK test succeeds, prioritize the affected app, browser policy, operating-system setting, or configuration before assuming complete hardware failure.

If it also fails here

If the same capability also fails in DeviceOK and another trusted diagnostic path, broaden the investigation to connection, operating-system/device state, official driver or firmware support, and finally hardware.

Made a change?Run the same test again instead of assuming the problem is fixed.
Retest Online status