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How to Fix WiFi Driver Not Working Errors on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

WiFi driver issues on Windows 11 can be frustrating, especially when you rely on your internet connection for work or entertainment. These errors often prevent your computer from connecting to wireless networks properly. Fortunately, most WiFi driver problems have straightforward fixes.

This guide will walk you through simple and detailed steps to resolve WiFi driver not working errors on Windows 11. Whether you’re a beginner or someone with basic computer knowledge, these instructions are easy to follow.

Before diving into the solutions, it’s important to understand why these errors occur. Drivers act as a bridge between your hardware and software, so if a driver is outdated or corrupted, WiFi connectivity can fail.

Let’s explore practical ways to get your WiFi working again quickly and safely.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

  • Check your hardware: Make sure your WiFi adapter is properly connected and enabled. On laptops, some have a physical switch or function key (like Fn + F2) to turn WiFi on or off.
  • Restart your computer: Sometimes a simple reboot can fix temporary glitches affecting your WiFi.
  • Ensure Airplane Mode is off: Windows 11 has an Airplane Mode that disables all wireless connections. Check and turn it off if enabled.
  • Confirm router functionality: Verify that your WiFi router is working by connecting other devices to it.

Step 1: Run the Windows Network Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter designed to detect and fix common network problems automatically. This is the easiest first step because it requires no technical knowledge.

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Network Adapter and click Run.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions and apply any recommended fixes.

This tool can detect if your WiFi driver is disabled or needs resetting. It’s a quick way to solve common issues without manual intervention.

Step 2: Update Your WiFi Driver

Outdated or incompatible drivers often cause WiFi problems. Updating the driver ensures your hardware communicates properly with Windows 11.

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Network adapters section.
  3. Right-click your WiFi adapter (usually includes words like “Wireless” or “WiFi”) and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for drivers. Windows will look for the latest driver and install it.
  5. Restart your computer after the update completes.

If Windows doesn’t find a new driver, you can also visit your PC or WiFi adapter manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver manually.

Step 3: Reinstall the WiFi Driver

If updating doesn’t help, reinstalling the driver can fix corrupted files that cause connectivity issues.

  1. Open Device Manager again.
  2. Expand Network adapters, right-click your WiFi adapter, and choose Uninstall device.
  3. In the confirmation window, tick Delete the driver software for this device if available, then click Uninstall.
  4. Restart your computer. Windows will automatically detect the hardware and reinstall the driver.

This process refreshes the driver completely, which can resolve deeper driver-related problems.

Step 4: Enable WiFi Adapter in Network Settings

Sometimes the WiFi adapter is disabled in Windows settings, causing the connection to fail.

  1. Click Start and open Settings.
  2. Navigate to Network & internet > Advanced network settings > Network adapters.
  3. Look for your WiFi adapter. If it says Disabled, click it and select Enable.

Enabling the adapter ensures Windows can use the hardware to connect to wireless networks.

Step 5: Reset Network Settings

If all else fails, resetting network settings restores all network configurations to default, which can clear problematic changes.

  1. Go to Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings.
  2. Click Network reset at the bottom.
  3. Hit Reset now and confirm.
  4. Your PC will restart and remove all network adapters, then reinstall them with default settings.

Note that after resetting, you will need to reconnect to WiFi networks and re-enter passwords.

Alternative Method: Use Command Prompt to Reset WiFi

If you prefer using commands, the following commands can refresh your network stack and reconnect your WiFi:

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

To run these commands:

  1. Search for Command Prompt, right-click it, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Type each command one by one, pressing Enter after each.
  3. Restart your computer once done.

These commands reset network configurations and can fix deeper connectivity issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is my WiFi driver not working after Windows 11 update?

Windows updates sometimes change system files or drivers, causing incompatibility. Updating or reinstalling the driver usually resolves this.

How do I know which WiFi driver to install?

Check your PC or WiFi adapter manufacturer’s website for the exact model and download the driver labeled for Windows 11.

Can I roll back a WiFi driver if a new version causes problems?

Yes. In Device Manager, right-click the WiFi adapter, select Properties > Driver tab, and click Roll Back Driver if available.

What if my WiFi adapter does not show up in Device Manager?

This could mean a hardware issue or the adapter is disabled in BIOS. Try enabling it in BIOS settings or check with a technician.

Is it safe to download drivers from third-party websites?

It’s recommended to download drivers only from official or trusted manufacturer websites to avoid malware or compatibility issues.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and your WiFi still does not work, consider the following options:

  • Use Windows Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support page for additional help and tools.
  • Check for hardware issues: Your WiFi adapter might be faulty. Test with a USB WiFi dongle or consult a professional technician.
  • Perform System Restore: Restore your PC to a previous state when WiFi was working by searching System Restore in Windows.
  • Reset or reinstall Windows 11: As a last resort, resetting or reinstalling Windows can fix deep system problems but make sure to back up your data first.

Conclusion

WiFi driver not working errors on Windows 11 are common but usually fixable with simple steps. Starting with the built-in troubleshooter and progressing through updating, reinstalling drivers, enabling adapters, and resetting network settings covers most issues.

Always begin with the easiest solutions to save time and avoid unnecessary complications. If you face persistent problems, advanced commands and official support can provide further assistance.

By following this guide, you should be able to restore your WiFi connection and stay connected without hassle.

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