Wifi hardware problem in laptop

10 steps to fix wireless adapter or access point issues on PC

Wifi hardware problem in laptop
by Milan Stanojevic
Windows & Software Expert
Milan has been enthusiastic about PCs ever since his childhood days, and this led him to take interest in all PC-related technologies. Before joining WindowsReport, he worked as a front-end web developer. Read more
Affiliate Disclosure
  • Sometimes, it's more convenient to access the Internet using the wireless adapter.
  • The problems with the wireless adapter or access point are mainly caused by problematic drivers.
  • For any information about wireless connections, explore our Network & Internet section.
  • Our Windows 10 Hub covers a world of information from news to tips and guides about the OS.
Wifi hardware problem in laptop
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Many Windows 10PCs access the Internet using the wireless adapter. Still, wireless adapters can cause problems, especially if you dont configure them properly.

One issue that users reported is the Problem with wireless adapter or access point error message, and in this guide, well show you how to fix it.

This issue mainly shows up on certain laptop models. Thats not surprising at all, as laptops mainly use wireless networks after all.

Also, these are laptop brands that are most prone to this issue (although it may occur on basically any laptop): HP, Dell, Toshiba, Asus, Lenovo, Acer.

How can I fix the problems with the wireless adapter?

  1. Update the wireless drivers
  2. Switch to wired connection
  3. Delete your wireless profile
  4. Check if your password is correct
  5. Use some Command Prompt solutions
  6. Check if your wireless adapter is disabled
  7. Remove your antivirus software
  8. Change the name and password for your WiFi connection
  9. Reset your router
  10. Check for Windows Updates

1. Update the wireless drivers

You can update your drivers manually by using Device Manager.

Open Device Manager, look for your network adapter, right-click on it, and select Update Driver. Next, click on Search automatically for drivers and see if the system finds a new one.

There is also the option to visit your network adapter manufacturers website, locate your device, and download the latest drivers for it.

You can also try installing the drivers using the CD you got with your wireless adapter. Installing drivers from a CD is a great solution if you dont have an Internet connection.

Still, bear in mind that those drivers probably arent the latest.

Alternatively, if you want to save some time and be sure to have an error-free update, you can use a dedicated driver updater software. It can automate the task and update multiple drivers at once.

2.Switch to a wired connection

Using a wired connection on a laptop really kills the vibe. Still, if youre unable to connect to a WiFi network, you really have no choice, at least until the problem gets resolved.

So, connect your laptop to your router with the LAN cable. If the WiFi connection is the only problem, you should connect to the internet without any problems.

Also, since some of the upcoming solutions require an Internet connection, we advise you to keep that LAN cable by your side, until we find a proper solution.

If youre still unable to connect to the Internet, even though youre using the wired connection, something is wrong with your router. There are many possible reasons why Windows cant connect to the router, including faulty hardware equipment.

3. Delete your wireless profile

  1. Type cmd in Windows Search and click on Run as administrator to open Command Prompt.
    Wifi hardware problem in laptop
  2. Enter the following command and press Enter (replace WirelessProfileName with the actual name of your wireless connection): netsh wlan delete profile name="WirelessProfileName"
  3. Wifi hardware problem in laptop
  4. Reconnect and reconfigure the network in order to fixwireless adapterproblems.

4. Check if your password is correct

You should always protect your Wi-Fi network with a password. Sometimes, you might accidentally enter the wrong password while trying to connect to the wireless network.

To fix this problem, disconnect from your network and reconnect again, but be sure that your password is correct.

Users reported that in some rare cases your keyboard might enter different characters, especially if you use different input languages on your PC. Therefore, be sure to double-check your password.

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Also, you can use a password manager from this list to remember all your passwords.

5. Use Command Prompt

Wifi hardware problem in laptop
  1. Start Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Enter the following lines:
    • netsh winsock reset
    • netsh int ip reset
    • ipconfig /release
    • ipconfig /renew
    • ipconfig /flushdns

6. Check if your wireless adapter is disabled

  1. Press Windows Key + X and select Device Manager from the list of options.
    Wifi hardware problem in laptop
  2. Locate your wireless adapter and double click it to open its properties.
  3. Go to the Driver tab and look for the Enable button. If you dont see the Enable button, it means that your device is enabled and working.
    Wifi hardware problem in laptop

7. Remove your antivirus software

Antivirus software is important for your online safety. Unfortunately, some antivirus programs can interfere with your wireless connection and cause the Problem with wireless adapter or access point error.

To fix this issue you need to temporarily disable or remove all third-party antivirus tools from your PC. Users reported that McAfee is causing this problem.

If that was the cause, we strongly recommend you switch to a different antivirus. Windows Defender is a good tool, but additional software is recommended.

You can find a lot of good Windows 10 compatible antivirus software that will keep you protected without causing problems in other apps.

Dedicated antivirus software have large and continuously updated threat databases that ensure real-time protection against all types of incoming attackers.

8. Change the name and password for your Wi-Fi connection

According to users, you can fix this issue simply by changing the name and password of your wireless network.

This is a pretty simple procedure. If you dont know how to do it, check your routers instruction manual for details.

9. Reset your router

This error can be caused by improper router configuration. According to users, you can fix this problem by resetting your router.

To do that, just press the reset button on your router, or open the router settings and select the reset option.

Before resetting your router you might want to save and export your configuration so you dont have to enter it manually.

For more information on how to reset your router or how to export your routers configuration, be sure to check your routers manual.

10. Check for Windows Updates

Microsoft partners with many hardware manufacturers. Therefore, theres a legit chance youll get your wireless adapter update through Windows Update.

So, connect that LAN cable, and check for updates. In case theres a new update for your router, the system will install it automatically

Other common network errors on Windows 10

This isnt by far the single problem in Windows 10 when it comes to Internet connectivity. You might have encountered other similar ones, and we have solutions for quite a few of them:

  • Microsoft wireless display adapter issues in Windows 10
  • Netgear wireless adapter problems
  • Wireless display adapter connection problems after Windows 10 v1709 update
  • Wi-Fi range issues (caused by wireless adapter) in Windows 10

Note: These solutions are not only for Windows 10 PC. You can try them for Windows 8 and 8.1.

Let us know in the comment section which one worked for you. We will be glad to recommend them in the first place.

Wifi hardware problem in laptop
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This article covers:Topics:
  • Fix WiFi problems
  • wireless adapter