What to Do Before Performing a Network Reset

A network reset removes drivers and settings for the network adapters installed on your PC, reinstalling drivers and settings to the default state. Configured custom settings are also removed. You may need to reinstall and reconfigure VPN software or network virtualization software if it doesn’t function as expected. Before you perform a network reset, save pertinent information and settings.

Network Adapter Settings

Windows 10 users tend to leave the network adapter settings as-is, trusting that the out-of-the-box configuration delivers satisfactory results. If you customized the adapter settings, note these modifications so that you can restore those settings after the reset process finishes. To access these settings, take the following steps.

VPN Settings

If you use Virtual Private Networking (VPN) to connect to a workplace or other secure environment, store the necessary credentials and setup information before resetting your network adapters. Not all relevant information is removed during the reset process, especially when using third-party software. Still, back up usernames, passwords, server addresses, and application-specific details in case this information is deleted.

How to Perform a Network Reset in Windows 10

Now that you’re prepared and have the necessary backups, perform the network reset.