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How to Fix Network Adapter Not Working in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Network adapters are essential for connecting your computer to the internet and other networks. If your network adapter stops working in Windows 11, you might lose internet access or face connectivity problems. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can follow to fix this issue without needing advanced technical skills.

This guide will walk you through easy and detailed solutions to get your network adapter working again. Each step is explained clearly so you can follow along even if you are a beginner. Let’s start by checking a few basic things before diving into the fixes.

By following these solutions from the simplest to more advanced, you can troubleshoot and resolve most network adapter problems on your own. Keep your patience, and don’t skip any step to ensure the best results.

Let’s begin with some quick notes that will help you prepare for troubleshooting.

Quick Note: Basic Checks Before You Begin

  • Restart your PC: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches affecting your network adapter.
  • Check physical connections: Make sure your Ethernet cable is plugged in properly, or if you use Wi-Fi, ensure your router is powered on and working.
  • Verify Airplane Mode is off: Airplane mode disables wireless connections, so ensure it’s turned off in Windows 11.
  • Check for Windows updates: Keeping your system updated can fix bugs that may affect network functionality.

Step 1: Run the Network Troubleshooter

Windows 11 has a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix common network issues automatically. It’s the easiest first step to try.

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Network Adapter in the list and click Run.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions. The troubleshooter will scan for problems and try to fix them automatically.

This step is important because it can quickly identify issues like disabled adapters or incorrect settings without manual intervention.

Step 2: Check and Enable the Network Adapter

Your network adapter might be disabled by mistake. Enabling it is straightforward and often solves connectivity problems.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Network adapters section.
  3. Look for your network adapter (usually contains “Wi-Fi,” “Wireless,” or “Ethernet” in the name).
  4. If you see a down arrow on the icon, right-click the adapter and select Enable device.

Enabling the adapter ensures Windows can use it to connect to networks. Sometimes it gets disabled unintentionally, especially after updates or system changes.

Step 3: Update Network Adapter Drivers

Drivers are software that help Windows communicate with your hardware. Outdated or corrupt drivers can cause your network adapter to malfunction.

  1. Open Device Manager again.
  2. Right-click your network adapter and select Update driver.
  3. Choose Search automatically for drivers. Windows will look for updated drivers online.
  4. If an update is found, follow the prompts to install it.
  5. Restart your PC after updating.

Updating drivers ensures compatibility and fixes bugs, which improves network adapter performance.

Step 4: Reset the Network Settings

If the above steps don’t work, resetting your network settings can help. This will remove and reinstall all network adapters and set other network components back to default.

  1. Open Settings and go to Network & internet.
  2. Scroll down and click on Advanced network settings.
  3. Under More settings, select Network reset.
  4. Click Reset now and confirm.
  5. Your PC will restart, and network settings will be restored to factory defaults.

This step is useful when your network configuration gets corrupted or misconfigured.

Step 5: Reinstall the Network Adapter

Reinstalling the network adapter can fix driver-related problems by forcing Windows to reinstall the device.

  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. Right-click your network adapter and select Uninstall device.
  3. Confirm the uninstallation.
  4. Restart your computer. Windows will detect the adapter and reinstall the drivers automatically.

This method is helpful if drivers are corrupted or if updates didn’t install correctly.

Alternative Method: Use Command Prompt to Reset Network

If you prefer using commands, you can reset network settings via Command Prompt. This can fix deeper network issues.

  1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and choose Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns

After running these commands, restart your PC. These reset network protocols and clear DNS cache, which can resolve stubborn connectivity issues.

FAQs

Why is my network adapter missing from Device Manager?

Your network adapter might be hidden or disabled. In Device Manager, click View > Show hidden devices. If still not visible, hardware problems or driver corruption could be the cause.

Can a Windows update cause network adapter issues?

Yes, sometimes updates can conflict with drivers or settings. Rolling back the update or updating the driver usually helps.

What if my Ethernet cable is working but no internet?

Check your IP settings and router configuration. Try resetting the network or running the troubleshooter to identify the problem.

How do I know if my network adapter is faulty?

If none of the software fixes work and the adapter is not detected, it may be a hardware issue. Testing with another adapter or device can confirm this.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and your network adapter still doesn’t work, it might be time to seek professional help. You can visit the official Microsoft support page for Windows 11 networking issues: Microsoft Network Troubleshooting.

Alternatively, consider consulting with a computer technician to check for hardware problems or more complex software conflicts.

Conclusion

Fixing a network adapter not working in Windows 11 can be simple when you follow the right steps. Start with basic checks and the built-in troubleshooter, then move on to enabling the adapter and updating drivers. If needed, reset your network settings or reinstall the adapter to resolve deeper issues.

Using the command line for network reset offers another powerful option for advanced troubleshooting. Remember to be patient and methodical, as skipping steps may overlook the root cause.

With these clear and easy-to-follow solutions, you can restore your internet connection without hassle and get back online quickly.

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