I have two Wi-Fi networks, N1 and N2. N1 is visible on both my Android phone and my PC, which dual-boots Debian 13 and Windows 10. N2 is only visible on the PC. Initially, N1 worked on my phone but connected without loading pages on either operating system. N2 worked somewhat on Windows 10, while Debian stayed stuck at "configuring interface" before eventually failing. The PC connects normally to Wi-Fi at university and at my parents' house, so the hardware seems functional. After using it more, I found that N1 also works normally on Windows 10, leaving Debian as the main problem. What could cause these network-specific differences, and how can I troubleshoot them?
2 Answers
This may be caused by compatibility settings on the router. Check whether the networks allow older Wi-Fi clients and whether they support both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz instead of forcing one band. Security modes, Wi-Fi standards, and band steering can all result in a network being visible but refusing to connect or failing to pass traffic. If you cannot access the router because you are renting, you may need to ask the landlord or network administrator to check those settings.
A Linux wireless driver or firmware problem is another strong possibility, especially if the adapter is using a Realtek chipset. Check the kernel messages immediately after a failed connection with `dmesg` or `journalctl -k` and look for firmware errors, authentication failures, deauthentication messages, or repeated interface resets. Identifying the exact Wi-Fi chipset and installed driver would also help narrow it down. USB or phone tethering can be used for temporary internet access while installing firmware or driver updates.
I was able to connect through phone tethering and collect the kernel logs. I’ll use those along with the adapter’s chipset information to check whether the Debian driver or firmware is reporting errors.
Unfortunately, I’m renting and don’t have access to the router settings, so I’ll need to ask whoever manages the network.