While we always recommend an Ethernet connection to Windows PC users, it may not be convenient for everyone. If you want to set up a wireless connection on Windows PC, get a USB Wi-Fi adapter from the local shop or Amazon. But what if the USB Wi-Fi adapter fails to work on your PC? Here are the best ways to fix the problem.
You can’t access the internet on your Windows PC when the Wi-Fi adapter stops working. You are limited to playing offline videos and music only. To unleash the true potential of your PC, you should establish a Wi-Fi network on it. Go through the tricks below to troubleshoot the problem.
1. Replug the Adapter
Let’s start with some basics first. You should remove the Wi-Fi adapter from the USB port, clean it, and plug it back in. Now, open the Wi-Fi menu from the Windows taskbar and check if the adapter is detecting wireless connections.
2. Use Another USB Port
If a specific port on your Windows PC is malfunctioning, it won’t detect the Wi-Fi adapter, flash drive, hard drive, SSD, keyboard, mouse, and other devices. You should try another USB port on your PC.
3. Connect to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Network
Most entry-level Wi-Fi adapters only support 2.4GHz frequency. They don’t support the high-speed 5GHz frequency. When you use such Wi-Fi adapters, you can’t connect to a 5GHz network. It won’t even show up on your Windows PC.
4. Run Network Adapter Troubleshooter
You can run the default troubleshooter tool to fix such issues on your Windows PC.
Step 1: Launch Windows Settings by pressing the Windows + I keys.
Step 2: Navigate to the System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters menu.
Step 3: Run the Network adapter troubleshooter and follow the on-screen instructions.
5. Reset Network Drivers
Corrupt or outdated network adapter drivers can lead to issues like Wi-Fi adapter not working on Windows.
Step 1: Open the Device Manager menu from the right-click menu on the Windows key.
Step 2: Expand Network adapters and right-click on the Wi-Fi adapter. Select Uninstall device.
Restart the Windows PC and check if the Wi-Fi is working as excepted.
6. Change Wi-Fi Adapter Value
When our Windows PC’s Wi-Fi adapter stopped working, this trick worked like a charm for us. It’s time to change the Wi-Fi adapter value from the Device Manager menu.
Step 1: Launch the Device Manager menu (check the steps above).
Step 2: Right-click on the Wi-Fi adapter and open Properties.
Step 3: Select Advanced. Select Wireless Mode and change the Wi-Fi adapter value from the sidebar.
Now, replug the Wi-Fi adapter on your PC. It should work as expected now. If the issue persists, try the tricks below.
7. Disconnect Other Devices
Did you connect several devices to your PC? It may create interference with the Wi-Fi adapter function. You should remove other devices and try again. You can always connect your keyboard and mouse wirelessly to the Windows PC.
8. Get a New USB Adapter
You can try connecting the Wi-Fi adapter to another PC. If the issue persists on all the devices, the Wi-Fi adapter is the main culprit here. It’s time to get a new Wi-Fi adapter for your workstation. We recommend getting a Wi-Fi adapter that supports dual-band Wi-Fi.
9. Restart Router and Update the Firmware
Do you have Wi-Fi issues on all the connected devices at home or office? It’s time to troubleshoot the router.
Rebooting the router is one of the best ways to fix network issues at home or office. You can remove the router from the power plug, wait for around 30 seconds, and plug it back in.
If the issue persists, you need to update the router firmware to the latest version. You can read Asus and TP-Link’s dedicated guides to complete installing the firmware update. Both companies are well-known in the router market.
10. Setup an Ethernet Connection
Nothing beats a dedicated Ethernet connection on a PC. It offers robust, no-nonsense, high-speed internet speeds to your PC. You can seamlessly update Windows and download large files, games, and more without missing a beat or running into errors. You should ditch the Wi-Fi adapter and get help from a professional to establish the Ethernet network at the home or office.
Enjoy Wireless Network on Your PC
A Wi-Fi adapter not working or keeps disconnecting can break your workflow and waste productivity hours. Which troubleshooting step worked for you? Share your findings in the comments below.
