Top 10 Ways to Fix Network Adapter Not Working in Windows

A reliable internet connection has become an essential part of our daily lives, both at work and at home. However, there are times when your network adapter in Windows decides to misbehave, leaving you frustrated and disconnected.

Whether you’re unable to connect to Wi-Fi or Ethernet, a malfunctioning network adapter can disrupt your workflow and online activities. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various methods to fix network adapter issues in Windows, ensuring you stay connected and productive.

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Table of Contents to Fix Network Adapter

Identifying Network Adapter Problems
- Checking for physical issues
- Verifying software-related problems
Basic Troubleshooting Steps
- Restart your computer and router
- Disable and enable the network adapter
- Check for Windows updates
Updating Network Adapter Drivers
- Manual driver update
- Automatic driver update
Resetting Network Settings
- Resetting network settings via Command Prompt
- Resetting network settings via Network & Internet settings
Reconfiguring Network Services
- Restarting network-related services
- Resetting TCP/IP stack
Using Windows Network Troubleshooter
- Running the built-in troubleshooter
- Using the Internet Connections troubleshooter
Checking for Software Conflicts
- Disabling third-party firewall and antivirus software
- Uninstalling recent software updates
Checking Hardware Issues
- Testing with a different network adapter
- Inspecting the network cable and router
Advanced Network Adapter Settings
- Adjusting power management settings
- Tweaking adapter settings in the Device Manager
Creating a New Network Profile
- Deleting the existing network profile
- Creating a new network profile
Performing a System Restore
- Restoring your system to a previous state
Seeking Professional Help
- Contacting your ISP
- Consulting a technician

1. Identifying Network Adapter Problems

Before diving into troubleshooting steps, it’s crucial to pinpoint the source of the problem. Network adapter issues can be broadly categorized as physical or software-related.

Checking for physical issues:

Inspect your Ethernet cable for any damage.
Ensure that the cable is securely plugged into your computer and router.
If using Wi-Fi, make sure your router and computer are in close proximity.

Verifying software-related problems:

Check if the network adapter is enabled in Windows settings.
Look for error messages or codes in the Windows Network and Sharing Center.
Ensure that your IP address is assigned correctly.

2. Basic Troubleshooting Steps

Sometimes, simple solutions can resolve network adapter issues.

Restart your computer and router:

Restarting both your computer and router can clear minor glitches and often restores connectivity.

Disable and enable the network adapter:

Right-click on the network icon in the taskbar.
Select “Open Network & Internet settings.”
Under “Change your network settings,” click on “Change adapter options.”
Right-click on your network adapter and choose “Disable,” then right-click again and select “Enable.”

Check for Windows updates:

Outdated software can cause compatibility issues. Make sure your Windows operating system is up to date.

3. Updating Network Adapter Drivers

Obsolete or corrupted network adapter drivers can lead to connectivity problems.

Manual driver update:

Go to the manufacturer’s website and download the latest driver for your network adapter.
Install the driver by following the provided instructions.

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Automatic driver update:

Right-click on the Start button and select “Device Manager.”
Expand the “Network adapters” section.
Right-click on your network adapter and choose “Update driver.”
Select “Search automatically for updated driver software” and follow the on-screen prompts.

4. Resetting Network Settings

If you suspect that your network settings are causing problems, consider resetting them.

Resetting network settings via Command Prompt:

Open Command Prompt with administrative privileges (search for “cmd” in the Start menu, right-click, and select “Run as administrator”).
Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:
- netsh winsock reset
- netsh int ip reset
Restart your computer.

Resetting network settings via Network & Internet settings:

Open “Settings” (Windows key + I).
Go to “Network & Internet” > “Status.”
Scroll down and click on “Network reset.”
Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your network settings.

5. Reconfiguring Network Services

Network-related services can sometimes stop unexpectedly.

Restarting network-related services:

Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
Type “services.msc” and press Enter.
Locate and right-click on services like “WLAN AutoConfig” and “DHCP Client,” then select “Restart.”

Resetting TCP/IP stack:

Open Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
Type netsh int ip reset and press Enter.
Restart your computer.

6. Using Windows Network Troubleshooter

Windows provides built-in troubleshooters to automatically diagnose and fix network problems.

Running the built-in troubleshooter:

Open “Settings” (Windows key + I).
Go to “Update & Security” > “Troubleshoot.”
Click on “Internet Connections” and run the troubleshooter.

Using the Internet Connections troubleshooter:

Open Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
Type msdt.exe /id NetworkDiagnosticsNetworkAdapter and press Enter.
Follow the on-screen instructions to troubleshoot your network adapter.

7. Checking for Software Conflicts

Third-party software, particularly firewall and antivirus programs, can interfere with network connections.

Disabling third-party firewall and antivirus software:

Temporarily disable your firewall and antivirus software.
Test your network connection.
If the problem is resolved, consider configuring the software to allow network traffic.

Uninstalling recent software updates:

Go to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Windows Update.”
Click on “View update history.”
Select “Uninstall updates.”
Uninstall any recent updates that might have caused network issues.

8. Checking Hardware Issues

Hardware problems can also lead to network adapter malfunctions.

Testing with a different network adapter:

If possible, try using a different network adapter to rule out hardware issues.
If the new adapter works, your original adapter may be faulty.

Inspecting the network cable and router:

Examine the Ethernet cable for damage and replace it if necessary.
Restart your router and ensure it is functioning correctly.

9. Advanced Network Adapter Settings

Adjusting advanced settings can sometimes improve network performance.

Adjusting power management settings:

Right-click on the network adapter in Device Manager.
Go to the “Power Management” tab and uncheck “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.”

Tweaking adapter settings in the Device Manager:

Right-click on the network adapter in Device Manager.

10. Creating a New Network Profile

If none of the previous steps have resolved the

Conclusion

In the fast-paced, interconnected world we live in today, a working network adapter is the gateway to our digital universe. When it falters, it can disrupt our work, entertainment, and communication. However, armed with the knowledge and troubleshooting techniques outlined in this guide, you can overcome network adapter issues in Windows and regain your seamless connection to the online realm.

We’ve explored a plethora of solutions, ranging from basic troubleshooting steps to advanced configurations, ensuring that you have a comprehensive toolkit at your disposal. Whether your problem was caused by a simple glitch, outdated drivers, or even deeper software conflicts, you now have the means to tackle it effectively.

Remember, patience and a systematic approach are your allies in troubleshooting network adapter problems. Begin with the basics, like restarting your computer and router, and gradually progress to more advanced techniques if necessary. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can become your own network technician and resolve network adapter issues with confidence.

In some cases, the problem may be more complex or rooted in hardware issues. If you’ve exhausted all the options presented here and your network adapter is still not working, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or consult a professional technician. They can provide specialized assistance and ensure that your network infrastructure is in optimal working condition.

In the ever-connected digital landscape, a reliable network adapter is an indispensable tool, and with the knowledge gained from this guide, you’re well-equipped to conquer any network-related challenge that comes your way. So, stay connected, stay informed, and never let network issues hold you back from the boundless possibilities of the online world. To know more please visite itechbook.