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Fix the Wi-Fi error Radio switch is off in 3 easy steps
4 min. read
Updated onApril 29, 2024
updated onApril 29, 2024
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Key notes
Using theWi-Firadio switch (or acombination of keyboard keys) to turnWi-Fion or off was quite useful back in the day. However, since there’s a way to disableWi-Fiwith the software, they somewhat lost their purpose in laptops.
In addition, the presence of dedicated keys or side switches can cause a lot of issues with Windows users. Some users are prompted withWi-Firadio switch is offand thus, they’re unable to connect to a Wi-Fi network.
Even though it sounds obvious, the problem might not be related to the physical switch. For that purpose, we prepared a list of possible solutions that should help you resolve this issue. If you’ve had a hard time with it, make sure to check the list below.
How do I turn on a hardware radio switch?
1. Check the hardware first
Most of the time, users that bump into this problem neglect the fact that there’s always a combination of buttons or a switch that disables/enables theWi-Firadio.
On the majority of laptops, aWi-Firadio can be turned off with the combination of Fn (FuNction dual-purpose key) and one of the F-keys (Function keys). In this example, theWi-Firadio is enabled/disabled by pressingFn + F5. This may vary, depending on the manufacturer.
Furthermore, some older laptops have a side switch for the same purpose. This is analogous to modernAirplane mode, which uses software to disableWi-Fiand Bluetooth radios.
So, take a good look at the peripherals on the side of your laptop and make sure that, if present, theWi-Firadio switch is On.
2. Check the BIOS
Another reason for this occurrence lies in some Wi-Fi-related BIOS settings that can disable theWi-Firadio. The main suspect is the Power Management section in BIOS settings where you can regulate the activity of various hardware features, including theWi-Firadio (Wireless Radio Management).
There’s frequently an option to disable theWi-Firadio while the LAN cable is attached. So, make sure to boot into BIOS and disable it. Also, make sure that you’re running the latest BIOS version. Some users report motherboard incompatibility with the network adapter.
You can resolve that by updating your BIOS, but we strongly advise you to take great caution while doing so. For further insights on BIOS flashing, make sure to check thisarticle.
However, if you’re still stuck with the sameerrorand unable to connect toWi-Fidue to a radio switch, make sure to check the final step.
3. Reinstall drivers
We can’t afford to exclude the wireless LAN driver from a shortlist of possible culprits. On some rare occasions, the conflict between multiple drivers can cause the error we’re addressing today. Moreover, making sure thatWi-Fidrivers are properly installed is also important.
On the other hand, if you’re still stuck with the same problem, we’ll need to change our approach. Namely, the Windows Update forces a driver that’s maybe the latest version, but not always the functional version.
Thus, making you look for a legacy driver on the official site. Luckily, since this is a laptop/netbook-related problem, there’s support for accompanying software on the manufacturer’s official site.
Once you’ve located the proper Wireless LAN driver, install it and look for changes. Also, some manufacturers offer utilities (ancillary applications) for replacing the hardware when it comes to enabling or disabling the various system features, including theWi-Firadio.
For example, a lot of users with Intel-based chips resolved this issue by installing Switch OnWi-FiRadio Using Intel PROSet.
However, there is another option for saving time and ensuring that you are running the most recent versions of your drivers. Using aspecialized third-party driver updating toolthat can accomplish this for you automatically.
That should do it. In case you have some questions or suggestions regarding theWi-Firadio issue, make sure to post them in the comments section below.
More about the topics:Wi-Fi issues,windows 10
Aleksandar Ognjanovic
Aleksandar’s main passion is technology. With a solid writing background, he is determined to bring the bleeding edge to the common user. With a keen eye, he always spots the next big thing surrounding Microsoft and the Windows OS.
Focused on Windows errors and how to solve them, he also writes about the OS’s latest features as well as its interface.
In his free time, he likes to read, listen to music, and enjoy the nature. Hiking is one of his newly found passions.
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