Wi-Fi is not being detected on Windows 11

If Wi-Fi is not being detected on Windows 11, start by running the Network and Internet troubleshooter in the Get Help app. If that doesn't resolve the issue, check the following: enable the wireless adapter in Device Manager, update or rollback the Wi-Fi driver, and ensure the device's power management settings don't prevent Wi-Fi from working. You can also try running the Network Troubleshooter from Settings.

9/5/20241 min read

green and black circuit board
green and black circuit board

Detailed Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. 1. Run the Network and Internet troubleshooter:

    • Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.

    • Locate Network and Internet and click Run.

    • Follow the on-screen instructions.

  2. 2. Check Device Manager:

    • Open Device Manager.

    • Expand Network adapters.

    • If your Wi-Fi adapter is disabled, right-click it and select Enable.

    • If the adapter is shown as disabled, right-click it and select "Enable device".

  3. 3. Update or Rollback the Wi-Fi driver:

    • In Device Manager, right-click your Wi-Fi adapter and select Properties.

    • Go to the Driver tab.

    • If prompted, update the driver to the latest version.

    • If the update doesn't work, try rolling back the driver to a previous version.

  4. 4. Check Power Management settings:

    • In Device Manager, right-click your Wi-Fi adapter and select Properties.

    • Go to the Power Management tab.

    • Make sure "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power" is unchecked.

  5. 5. Run the Network Troubleshooter from Settings:

    • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.

    • Click Network Adapter and then Run the troubleshooter.

  6. 6. Other potential solutions:

    • Check for Airplane mode: Ensure Airplane mode is not enabled in your device settings.

    • Reset network settings: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network reset.

    • Check for faulty WiFi card or physical switch issues: If the WiFi card is damaged or has a loose connection, it may not function properly.