WiFi Connection Problem Solved on Ubuntu with NetworkManager

Common Network Issues

If you’re experiencing network connectivity issues on Linux, especially with WiFi, these commands can help resolve common NetworkManager problems.

Basic NetworkManager Commands

1. Enable NetworkManager at Boot

sudo systemctl enable NetworkManager

• Ensures NetworkManager starts automatically on system boot
• Creates necessary symlinks for systemd

2. Start NetworkManager Service

sudo systemctl start NetworkManager

• Immediately starts the NetworkManager service
• Use this if NetworkManager is not running

3. Edit NetworkManager Configuration

sudo vi /etc/NetworkManager/NetworkManager.conf

• Opens the NetworkManager configuration file in vi editor
• Common settings to check:
  • [ifupdown] managed=true - Ensures NetworkManager manages network interfaces
  • [device] wifi.scan-rand-mac-address=no - Disables MAC address randomization

4. Restart NetworkManager

sudo systemctl restart NetworkManager

• Applies any configuration changes
• Restarts the NetworkManager service

Troubleshooting

To check NetworkManager status:

systemctl status NetworkManager

To view NetworkManager logs:

journalctl -u NetworkManager -b

Common Issues Resolved

1. WiFi not showing up
2. NetworkManager not starting on boot
3. Connection issues after system update
4. Interface management conflicts

Remember to test your network connection after applying these changes. If issues persist, check system logs for specific error messages.