Network security key not working? While connecting to a wireless network, if you are getting a Network Security Key Mismatch error in a pop-up window on Windows 11/10, here is how you can fix it. It is not a major issue, and you can fix it within moments. Let’s take a look at the possible causes and solutions.
What is Network Security Key Mismatch error?
Network Security Key Mismatch error occurs when you try to connect to a Wi-Fi network. Let’s say you used to connect to a particular network earlier. However, you changed the security type (WPA, WPA2, WEP, etc.) when the computer was not connected to the network. Now, if you try to connect to the network, you may get this error message.
Fix Network Security Key Mismatch error on Windows 11
To fix Network Security Key Mismatch issue, you need to follow these steps:
- Restart the router
- Forget the wireless network and reconnect
- Release TCP/IP
- Reset network settings
- Revert the wireless security settings of your router
Let’s check out these solutions in detail.
Network security key not working
1] Restart the router
Restarting the router is probably the first thing you’ve already done. If not, restart your router and see whether the problem resolves. If your router cannot update the security change automatically, you may get this problem. To fix this, restart your Wi-Fi router.
2] Forget the wireless network and reconnect
This is the ‘restart’ part you can perform on your computer. Windows 11/10 automatically tries to connect to the previously saved Wi-Fi network to save your time. However, this same thing can also cause the issue. Also, if you delete the saved Wi-Fi network profile and reconnect to the router, it will do a ‘restart’-like job. Therefore, follow these guides to forget the wireless network profile and delete the Wi-Fi network profile.
3] Release TCP/IP
At times, you might have to release and renew TCP/IP on your Windows 11/10 computer to fix this issue.
4] Reset network settings
An internal conflict often causes this problem, and that is why resetting the network settings might solve it. Resetting network settings deletes everything related to the network adapter. Following that, when you reconnect to a network, it connects as if it is the first time. Therefore, follow this step-by-step guide to reset Network Adapters using the Network Reset feature.
5] Revert the wireless security settings of your router
If nothing is working and you need the internet connection immediately, it is better to revert the security settings changed in the router. At times, your computer might not comply with the security change for some reason. That is why reverting the security settings to the original ones might resolve your problem.
You can also temporarily disable your firewall and antivirus software, then try connecting to the network. If you have a VPN app enabled, turn it off or close it before connecting to the network.
That’s all! Hope these solutions help you to fix the Network Security Key Mismatch error.
How do I fix Network Security not working?
To fix Network Security not working issue, you need to follow these steps: Restart the router, Forget the wireless network and reconnect, Release TCP/IP, Reset network settings, Revert the security settings.
Is the Network Security Key the same as Wi-Fi password?
In this case, the network security key is the same as the Wi-Fi password. However, depending on the situation and router manufacturer, it may denote something different.
