Key takeaways
- Check whether other devices connect, to find out if the laptop or the router is at fault.
- Forgetting and re-adding the network fixes many connection errors.
- A laptop that sees no networks at all may have a driver or antenna fault.
Check the simple things
Make sure airplane mode is off and that Wi-Fi is switched on. Some laptops have a function key or a physical switch for Wi-Fi. Check that you are in range and that the network name is the right one.
Test other devices
If your phone also cannot connect, the problem is the router or the internet service. Restart the router by switching it off for a minute and then on again.
Restart the laptop
A normal restart clears many temporary network faults. Use Restart rather than Shut down, because Windows may keep some settings on shutdown.
Forget the network and reconnect
Open Wi-Fi settings, choose Manage known networks, forget the network and connect again with the password. This clears old or wrong saved settings.
Run the Windows troubleshooter
In Settings, open Network and Internet and run the network troubleshooter. It repairs common adapter and settings errors.
Update or reinstall the Wi-Fi driver
In Device Manager, open Network adapters, find your Wi-Fi adapter and choose Update driver. If that does not help, uninstall the adapter and restart so Windows reinstalls it.
Reset the network settings
In Windows network settings there is a Network reset option. It removes and reinstalls network adapters and returns settings to default. You will need to reconnect to your networks afterwards.
When it is hardware
If the laptop shows no Wi-Fi networks at all, even in Device Manager, the Wi-Fi card or its antenna cable may be loose or damaged. This needs a technician.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my laptop keep disconnecting from Wi-Fi?
Common causes are weak signal, router problems, power saving settings on the adapter or an old driver.
Why can other devices connect but my laptop cannot?
The problem is on the laptop: saved network settings, the driver or the Wi-Fi adapter.
Does a Wi-Fi problem mean I need a new laptop?
Almost never. Most cases are fixed with settings or a driver, and a failed Wi-Fi card can be replaced.
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This guide is general advice. Every device and business is different, so if you are unsure, ask a technician before you act.
