How to fix wi-fi not connecting

Since laptop #2 works on the same Wi‑Fi, the problem is likely on laptop #1 rather than the router or ISP.

Try these steps on laptop #1 in order:

1. Test another network
   • Connect laptop #1 to a different trusted Wi‑Fi network or a phone hotspot.
   • If it works there, the issue is likely with how laptop #1 is connecting to the current router.
2. Move closer to the router and try the other Wi‑Fi band
   • If the router shows both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks, try the other one.
   • This can help if one band has a weak or unstable signal.
3. Double-check the connection path
   • On another device, try the same Wi‑Fi network. Since laptop #2 already works, that confirms the network itself is available.
   • If possible, try a wired Ethernet connection on laptop #1. If Ethernet works, that narrows the issue to Wi‑Fi on that laptop.
4. Reset the network stack
   • This requires Command Prompt as administrator.
   • Run these commands in this order:

          netsh winsock reset
          netsh int ip reset
          ipconfig /release
          ipconfig /renew
          ipconfig /flushdns
     

   • Then restart the PC.
   • Note: these commands reset network settings and may temporarily disconnect the device until it reconnects.
5. Check the Wi‑Fi adapter driver
   • If Wi‑Fi still does not work, reinstall the Wi‑Fi adapter driver.
   • In Device Manager, expand Network adapters, find the wireless adapter, uninstall it, and restart the laptop so Windows can reinstall it.
   • If needed, download the correct Wi‑Fi driver from the PC manufacturer on another device and copy it over.
6. If the issue started after sleep or resume
   • Open Control Panel > System and Security > Device Manager.
   • Expand Network adapters.
   • Open the Intel wireless device Properties > Power Management.
   • Make sure Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power is checked.
   • A reboot can also work around this specific issue.
7. If the laptop will not shut down and only spins
   • That can indicate the system is hung, which can also affect networking.
   • After collecting any needed work, force a power-off by holding the power button until the device turns off, then start it again.
   • If the Wi‑Fi problem keeps returning after sleep or resume, focus on the adapter driver and power management steps above.

A likely cause in this case is a problem on laptop #1 with the Wi‑Fi adapter, driver, TCP/IP stack, or power-management state, especially since another laptop beside it connects normally.

References:

• Get connected when setting up your Windows device
• Fix Ethernet connection problems in Windows
• Intel's My WiFi Technology stops working after resuming from sleep or hibernate in Windows 7