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Fix Wi-Fi Adapter Not Working/Not Available: 9 Easy Tips
Did you check if other devices can connect to the same hotspot?
10 min. read
Updated onSeptember 16, 2024
updated onSeptember 16, 2024
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To fix various driver issues on your PC, you will need a dedicated tool to find the freshest and the original drivers. You can use PC HelpSoft Driver Updater to do it in 3 easy steps:
If the Wi-Fi adapter is not working after a system update, youcan’t connect to any network. But don’t worry, we have plenty of solutions for this problem.
The Wi-Fi adapter is not working mainly because of driver problems, but it may also be caused by improper settings or when the adapter is malfunctioning or damaged.
Before proceeding with the solutions below, restart your PC and your router and check if other devices can connect to your hotspot.
How do I fix Wi-Fi adapter issues on Windows?
1. Use the Internet Connections troubleshooter
When you’re encountering issues with your Wi-Fi adapter on your PC, a reliable option is theInternet Connectionstroubleshooter to identify and eliminate the source of the problem.
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Press theWindowskey +Ito openSettings,then head toUpdates & Security.
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SelectTroubleshootfrom the left pane and click onAdditional troubleshooters.
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SelectInternet Connectionsand click theRun the troubleshooterbutton.
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Follow further on-screen instructions and let the process finish.
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Restart your computer.
A problematic Wi-Fi adapter may also cause theSuspect ARP Probe Failed error. Read the highlighted guide for more information.
2. Update the network drivers (Internet needed)
Updating the driverwill work only if you have an Ethernet cable connection besides your Wi-Fi. If unavailable, download the necessary drivers on another computer or device and run the setup on the affected PC.
3. Reset the network adapters
Once done, restart the computer and verify whether the Wi-Fi adapter is still not working
4. Perform a registry tweak with Command Prompt
This should solve the issue, but if you receive the error 0x80004002 after entering the command, this value needs to be deleted slightly differently.
Here’s what to do if you receive this error code:
5. Change the adapter settings
6. Reinstall the network adapter
7. Reset your router
Resetting the router can do wonders, as cliche as it sounds. Though the steps to reset the router are different for each manufacturer, every router usually has a reset button. So, find the instructions for your manufacturer and finish the process.
8. Update the router firmware
For more information, we suggest that you visit our guide on how toupdate your router firmware guideand avoid this and other like errors such aserror code 10.
9. Switch to the Maximum Performance mode
Just keep in mind that theMaximum Performancemode will put some extra pressure on your device, so your laptop battery may drain more quicker. But, it should, in all likelihood, fix the problem with the Wi-Fi adapter.
What do I do if the Wi-Fi adapter is not working on Windows 11?
If you’re still having problems, visit our guide on what to do ifWi-Fi disappears in Windows 11for more solutions.
What are other common Wi-Fi adapter issues?
Here are some similar issues reported by our users that you can also resolve with the fixes presented below:
How do I avoid Wi-Fi connection problems?
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Choose a less crowded channel
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Move between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
If you have a dual-band router, switching between the two frequencies can be a good idea.
You can usually find the frequency settings in theWireless Settingsmenu on your router, just like in the image above.
Just like we mentioned before, they may differ on your device. Therefore, feel free to consult the manual of your device.
- Remove unwanted devices
You might have forgotten that you gave the router password to some friends, especially neighbors who may still connect to your Wi-Fi network.
To get them off your network, go into your router’s settings, look for connected devices, and delete the ones you don’t recognize.
- Upgrade your device (change the Wi-Fi card)
The Wi-Fi card or adapter is usually embedded in your motherboard, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use an external one.
If you conclude that your one is not working correctly, you can use anew Wi-Fi adapterthat will fit your needs better.
- Get the right router for your needs
When talking about your home network, ensure that the router can provide signal coverage wherever you are in the house.
If the connection fails occasionally, it’s either a problem with the router itself or the signal power to your device.
You can even choose one of thebest routers with an internal antenna, but remember to stay with your device within range.
- Keep your drivers updated
As you’ve read in our guide, drivers can cause a lot of mess when it comes to Wi-Fi adapters, so it’s recommended that you regularlyupdate the network drivers.
- Pick the correct Wi-Fi hotspot
Although it may sound hilarious, sometimes we can connect to another network by mistake, a slower or a more crowded one.
That is why, when encountering an Internet connection problem, you first need to ensure that you have the correct link from the ISP and that your router or access point is working correctly.
After that, check if other devices can connect to the Wi-Fi network; if they do, you can conclude that there might be a problem with your device.
Should I use a 5GHz or 2.4GHz wireless network?
5GHz networks offer incredible speed and less latency, so if you want a fast connection with low ping, this is the better option.
However, 2.4GHz offers a better range, and its signal is better at penetrating through obstacles, such as walls. Also, remember that many devices aren’t fully compatible with 5GHz networks.
As a basic rule, troubleshoot the most common possible issues and gradually move on to the more complex ones.
Once you have managed to fix things, find out how toboost the performance of a Windows PCfor a better experience.
Many also reported thatEthernet works but not WiFi, so you might want to check our dedicated guide on that issue for more solutions.
We also have a guide explaining what to do ifno WiFi networks are found, as well as a guide onThere might be a problem with the driver for the WiFi adaptererror, so don’t miss them.
Many also reportedNetwork cable is not properly plugged or may be brokenmessage, but we covered this issue in another guide.
If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, let us know in the comments below.
More about the topics:Fix WiFi problems,windows 10 fix,Windows 11
Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.
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Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
