Intel AC 7260 is a popular Wi-Fi adapter used in many laptops and desktops. Sometimes, its driver may stop working properly on Windows 11, causing connectivity issues. Fixing this problem is usually straightforward with the right approach.
This guide will walk you through simple, step-by-step solutions to get your Intel AC 7260 driver working again. Each step is explained clearly, so even beginners can follow along.
By the end, you should have a stable wireless connection restored on your device. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into troubleshooting.
These steps cover everything from basic restarts to driver updates, ensuring you find the best fix for your situation.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks
Before you start, make sure of the following:
- Your Windows 11 is up to date. Updates often include important fixes for hardware compatibility.
- Your device has a stable power source. Avoid interruptions during driver updates or system changes.
- Check if Airplane mode is off. This can disable your wireless adapter.
- Ensure the Wi-Fi switch (if any) on your laptop is turned on. Some laptops have a physical switch for wireless connectivity.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, a simple restart can solve driver-related issues. Restarting refreshes system processes and reloads drivers fresh.
- Click the Start menu.
- Select Power and then Restart.
- Wait for your computer to reboot and check if the Intel AC 7260 driver works correctly.
If the problem persists, move on to the next step.
Step 2: Run the Network Troubleshooter
Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix common network problems automatically.
- Click the Start menu and open Settings.
- Navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Find Network Adapter and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions and allow the troubleshooter to detect issues.
This tool may restart your network adapter or reset some settings to fix the driver problem.
Step 3: Update the Intel AC 7260 Driver Manually
Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause your Wi-Fi adapter to malfunction. Updating the driver often resolves these issues.
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Network adapters category.
- Right-click on Intel(R) Dual Band Wireless-AC 7260 and choose Update driver.
- Select Search automatically for drivers. Windows will look for the latest driver online.
- If a new driver is found, install it and restart your computer.
If Windows doesn’t find an update, you can also visit the Intel Download Center to manually download the latest driver for your model.
Step 4: Roll Back the Driver (If the Issue Started After an Update)
Sometimes, a recent driver update can cause problems. Rolling back to a previous version can help.
- Open Device Manager again.
- Right-click your Intel AC 7260 adapter and select Properties.
- Go to the Driver tab.
- Click Roll Back Driver if the option is available.
- Follow the prompts and restart your computer afterward.
If the rollback option is grayed out, it means there’s no previous driver version stored on your system.
Step 5: Disable and Re-enable the Network Adapter
Disabling and then re-enabling the adapter can reset its state and clear temporary glitches.
- In Device Manager, right-click the Intel AC 7260 adapter.
- Select Disable device and confirm.
- Wait a few seconds, then right-click it again and choose Enable device.
- Test your Wi-Fi connection.
Step 6: Reset Network Settings
If the driver is fine but connectivity issues persist, resetting all network settings might help. This will remove all saved Wi-Fi networks and reset adapters.
- Open Settings via the Start menu.
- Go to Network & Internet > Advanced network settings.
- Click Network reset.
- Select Reset now and confirm.
- Your PC will restart automatically. After reboot, reconnect to your Wi-Fi.
Alternative Method: Use Intel Driver & Support Assistant
Intel offers a tool called Intel Driver & Support Assistant that automatically detects and installs the correct drivers for your hardware.
- Download the tool from Intel’s official site: Intel Driver & Support Assistant.
- Install and run the tool.
- Let it scan your system and recommend driver updates.
- Follow prompts to install updates and restart your PC.
FAQs
Why is my Intel AC 7260 driver not working on Windows 11?
Driver issues can be caused by outdated software, Windows updates, corrupted files, or hardware conflicts. Sometimes, settings like Airplane mode or disabled adapters also cause problems.
Can I use generic drivers for the Intel AC 7260 adapter?
While generic drivers might work temporarily, it’s best to use the official Intel drivers to ensure full compatibility and performance.
Will uninstalling and reinstalling the driver fix the issue?
Yes, uninstalling the driver and then reinstalling it can fix corrupted driver files. This can be done via Device Manager.
Is it safe to download drivers from third-party websites?
No, downloading drivers from unofficial sources can pose security risks. Always download drivers from Intel’s official website or use Windows Update.
What if my Wi-Fi adapter is not showing up in Device Manager?
This could indicate a hardware problem or disabled BIOS setting. Check your BIOS settings and consult your device manufacturer if needed.
When Nothing Works
If none of the above solutions fix the Intel AC 7260 driver issue, consider these final steps:
- Contact Intel Support: Visit Intel official support for professional help.
- Check your device manufacturer’s website: They may offer custom drivers or firmware updates for your specific model.
- System Restore: Restore your computer to a point before the issue started, if you have restore points enabled.
- Consider hardware diagnostics: Your wireless card might be faulty; running hardware tests or consulting a technician can confirm this.
Conclusion
Fixing the Intel AC 7260 driver not working on Windows 11 can be simple if you follow the right steps. Start with basic restarts and troubleshooting, then update or roll back drivers as needed. Resetting network settings and using Intel’s support tools may also help.
Remember to always keep your system updated and use official drivers to avoid compatibility issues. If problems persist, professional support and hardware checks are the best route.
With these solutions, you should be able to restore your wireless connection and enjoy a stable internet experience on your Windows 11 device.