Intel(R) Wi-Fi 6 AX201 160MHz not working

Hi Stephan js ,

Since you’ve already reinstalled the driver and tested basic settings, the next things to check are:

1. Advanced adapter properties – In Device Manager → AX201 → Properties → Advanced tab, confirm that “Channel Width for 5GHz” or “802.11ax Bandwidth” is set to allow 160 MHz (not just 80 MHz).
2. Router/AP configuration – Some routers disable 160 MHz automatically if DFS channels are not enabled. Check your router’s wireless settings and confirm 160 MHz is active.
3. Verify actual connection width – Run netsh wlan show interfaces in a command prompt to see what channel width your connection is negotiating. This will tell if the adapter is falling back to 80 MHz.
4. Cross-test with another AP – If possible, try connecting to a different router that supports 160 MHz. If it works there, the limitation is likely on your current router rather than the AX201.

If the adapter consistently negotiates only 80 MHz even on a known-good 160 MHz AP, it could point to a hardware limitation, in which case testing on another machine or user profile can help confirm.

Hope this helps!

Hi Stephan Js,

Thank you for posting in the Microsoft community. I understand your network adaptor isn’t working and a reset, restart and reinstall didn’t resolve the issue. To provide more accurate support, please share the brand and model of your device so I can tailor the troubleshooting steps accordingly.

In the meantime, take a moment to check advanced adapter settings in Device Manager and ensure that the “Channel Width for 5GHz” or “802.11ax Bandwidth” is set to 160 MHz. And don’t forget to check if your router actually supports 160 MHz and has those DFS channels enabled.

Let me know how it goes. I will be more than happy to assist you.

Regards,
Carlo

Stephan,

Have you always had this issue, or is it a new problem? You mentioned that it 'started again after a Windows Update'. Which update? Was it a driver update for this Intel device?

What brand and model router or wireless gateway all in one do you have?

Thanks to everyone for all the suggestions.

It is my opinion that the problem is with the Surface laptop itself.

When the wifi adapter stops working it affects any/all wifi systems. All of my other devices remain unaffected.

Also, by playing around with the settings and restarting, I can often get to to work again.

What are the known problems with the hardware of software on a Surface laptop 3?

Hi Stephan js ,
For your question about known problems with Surface Laptop 3:
Surface Laptop 3 is generally a solid device, but like any product, there are a few areas where users have reported challenges. Most of these can be addressed with updates or simple troubleshooting:

Common observations from the community

• Wi-Fi connectivity: Some users have noticed intermittent drops or the adapter disappearing after updates. This is usually resolved by reinstalling the latest drivers from Microsoft or Intel and running the Surface Diagnostic Toolkit.
• Driver and firmware updates: Keeping your device fully updated often fixes performance and connectivity issues. If problems persist, a network reset or recovery image can help restore stability.
• Hardware aging: Over time, components like batteries may show wear, which is normal for any laptop. Microsoft provides guidance for battery care and replacement options if needed.

Hope this answer your question, please accept my answer kindly if you found it helpful!