Fix Wireless Adapter Missing on Windows 10
Many users may encounter the issue of a missing wireless adapter in Windows 10. This article provides effective solutions to help you quickly fix this problem and restore your network connection.
1. Update Device Drivers
Outdated or corrupted drivers are one of the most common reasons for a missing wireless adapter in Windows 10. Checking and updating drivers can often resolve this issue. It is recommended to use Driver Sentry for automatic driver updates, which saves time and prevents errors from downloading or installing incorrect drivers.
Click the Download button to get the latest version of Driver Sentry. After installation, open the software and click "Scan".
Once the scan is complete, it will show a list of missing or outdated drivers. Locate the wireless network adapter driver and click "Upgrade".
After the update is complete, restart your computer to ensure the new driver takes effect properly.
2. Show Hidden Devices
Right-click the Start menu and select "Device Manager".
In the Device Manager window, click the "View" menu and select "Show hidden devices".
Expand Network adapters and check if the wireless adapter appears as a hidden device.
If you find the wireless adapter with a grayed-out icon, right-click it and select "Enable device".
After enabling the adapter, restart your computer and check if the wireless adapter is visible again.
3. Reset Winsock Settings
Type "Command Prompt" in the search bar and select "Run as administrator".
In the command prompt, enter the following command and press Enter: netsh winsock reset
After executing the command, restart your computer and check if the wireless adapter is restored.
4. Run the Network Troubleshooter
Press Win + I to open Settings, then click "Update & Security".
Select "Troubleshoot", then click "Additional troubleshooters".
Find "Network Adapter", then click "Run the troubleshooter".
The system will automatically scan and fix issues related to the wireless adapter. Follow the on-screen instructions, then check if the adapter is restored.
5. Reset Network Settings
Press Win + I to open Settings, then go to "Network & Internet".
Select "Status", then scroll down and click "Network reset".
Click "Reset now", then confirm the reset operation. This will clear all network adapter settings and restore them to default.
Once the reset is complete, your computer will restart automatically. Check if the wireless adapter is working again.
6. Check for Hardware Issues
For laptop users: Check if there is a hardware switch to enable or disable the wireless adapter. Make sure the switch is turned on.
For external wireless adapters: Try unplugging the adapter from the USB port and reinserting it to see if it starts working.
For built-in wireless adapters: Ensure the adapter is securely connected to the motherboard. You may need to open the laptop's back cover to inspect the connection.
If possible, try inserting the wireless adapter into another computer to check if it works. If it does not function on another device, the adapter may have a hardware failure.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue of a missing wireless adapter in Windows 10. If the problem persists, consider contacting technical support or repair services for further assistance.
See also:
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