Can’t connect to WiFi

zane Skinner 5 Reputation points
2026-08-28T23:39:31.7333333+00:00

I bought a windows desktop and didn’t use it very much before leaving for the summer without it. When I got back it was disconnected from WiFi and I’m unable to reconnect. WiFi does not show up in any of my internet settings and I’m not seeing about wireless in my device manager -> network adapters files

Windows for home | Other | Internet and connectivity
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  1. Ivan B 123.5K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-08-29T01:13:12.57+00:00

    Hi ,

    Search for msinfo32.exe in the search bar, take a screenshot, and post it here so we can see the correct laptop model or desktop configuration.

    Thanks

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  2. AI answer

    2026-08-28T23:39:48.4566667+00:00

    If Wi‑Fi does not appear in Settings > Network & Internet and there is no wireless adapter under Device Manager > Network adapters, use this order:

    1. Run the Windows Network Troubleshooter
      • Go to Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other Troubleshooters.
      • Run Network Adapter.
    2. Check whether the network works on another device
      • Try the same Wi‑Fi on a phone or tablet.
      • If other devices also fail, restart the modem and Wi‑Fi router.
    3. Verify whether Wi‑Fi is missing in Device Manager
      • Open Device Manager.
      • Expand Network adapters.
      • If no Wi‑Fi adapter appears, Wi‑Fi may be missing or disabled.
    4. If the adapter appears later, reset it
      • In Device Manager, double-click the Wi‑Fi adapter.
      • Open the Driver tab.
      • Select Disable Device, confirm, then select Enable Device.
      • Restart the PC.
    5. Remove and reinstall the Wi‑Fi driver
      • In Device Manager > Network adapters, double-click the Wi‑Fi adapter.
      • On the Driver tab, select Uninstall Device.
      • Select Delete the driver software for this device, then select OK.
      • Restart the PC.
    6. Install updated drivers if Wi‑Fi is still missing
      • Use another PC with internet access.
      • Download the correct wireless driver package from the PC manufacturer’s support site to a USB drive.
      • Copy it to the desktop and install it, then restart.
    7. Try a hard shutdown if the adapter still does not return
      • Turn off the PC completely.
      • Unplug external peripherals and power.
      • Press and hold the power button for 15–30 seconds.
      • Wait a few minutes, then turn the PC back on.
    8. During Windows setup or if no networks appear anywhere
      • Move closer to the router.
      • Confirm the correct Wi‑Fi password.
      • Try the other Wi‑Fi band if both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz are available.
      • Try Ethernet if available.

    If the wireless adapter still does not appear in Device Manager after reinstalling the driver and restarting, install the latest driver package from the PC manufacturer using another computer and USB media.

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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