How to fix any Wi-Fi problem on Windows 10

UPDATED 1/4/2024: On Windows 10, network connectivity is among the most common problems on laptops and desktop computers. You will always find comments and forum posts complaining about slow Wi-Fi speeds and error messages like “Limited access,” “Unidentified Network,” and no internet access.

Although Microsoft proactively releases updates to improve the overall experience, it’s like a never-ending story. And this isn’t just a problem for Microsoft. Companies like Intel, Realtek, and others also deal with similar networking issues with the adapter drivers.

The good news is that if you’re having any wireless networking issues, Windows 10 includes several ways to troubleshoot and resolve virtually any problem, including a feature that allows you to reset any network adapter to fix the most common connectivity problems. (I have tried it, and it works.)

In this guide, I will teach you the steps to fix virtually any problem with wireless network adapters on Windows 10 (no matter if you’re using version 22H2, 21H2, or an older version).

Fix Wi-Fi using network reset

Windows 10 includes a network reset feature that removes and reinstalls all the network adapters, which can resolve most wireless problems, including slow speeds or other issues trying to connect to the internet.

To reset the Wi-Fi adapter on Windows 10 to fix any connectivity problems, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Network & Internet.
3. Click on Status.
4. Click the Network reset option.

   

5. Click the Reset now button.

   

6. Click Yes to confirm.
7. Click the Close button.
8. Restart your computer.

After you complete the steps, you may need to reinstall some networking software, such as a VPN client or virtual switch software, as necessary. Also, you will need to reconnect to the wireless network manually, which may require entering the password again.

If this method works, you are all done, but if the problem persists, try the method below.

Fix Wi-Fi using network troubleshooter

If the reset option doesn’t work, the operating system also includes troubleshooters, which are scripts that you can run on your device to resolve common problems, including networking issues.

To resolve Wi-Fi issues on Windows 10 automatically, use these steps:

1. Open Settings on Windows 10.
2. Click on Update & Security.
3. Click on Troubleshoot.
4. Click the Additional troubleshooters option.

   

5. Select the Network Adapter option.
6. Click the “Run the troubleshooter” button.

   

7. Select the wireless adapter from the list.

   

8. Click the Next button.

Once you complete the steps, the troubleshooter will scan, detect, and resolve the Wi-Fi problem on Windows 10. You can confirm the fix by opening the browser and testing the internet connection.

If the wireless works again, you do not need to do anything else. If it is still not working, try the following method.

Fix Wi-Fi updating network adapter driver

In the event that the slow Wi-Fi connectivity or another problem persists, the problem could be that the device is using an older version of the wireless adapter driver. You can resolve this issue by installing the latest driver from the manufacturer’s support website.

To update the wireless adapter driver on Windows 10, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for Device Manager, and click the top result to open the app.
3. Expand the Network adapters branch.
4. Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter and select the Update driver option.

   

5. Click the “Browse my computer for driver software” option.

   

6. Click the Browse option to locate the adapter driver.
   Quick note: This is the folder where you downloaded and uncompressed the driver files.
7. Check the Include subfolders option.

   

8. Click the Next button.

Once you complete the steps, the computer should connect to the wireless network and internet.

If you cannot find a newer update for the network adapter, you may want to try a beta version of the software. Sometimes, it might work with a newer version of Windows 10. Also, it is recommended to use the manufacturer’s instructions to install the latest version of the driver. Alternatively, you could also use an older version of the Wi-Fi adapter driver designed for Windows 8.1 or Windows 7, which might mitigate the problem until there is a permanent fix.

Fix Wi-Fi uninstalling buggy updates

If you are still dealing with the same wireless problem after trying the above tips, then it could be a bug with a particular update, in which case, you will need to wait until the next system or driver update.

Alternatively, you may be able to able to uninstall the specific update causing the problem.

In addition, it’s recommended to check the network settings on Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network Connections, double-clicking the adapter and opening the properties page. In the past, there have been cases where the TCP/IP settings have been disabled and DNS settings reset after the upgrade.

Also, you should always restart the router and access point to confirm these devices are not the problem.

Updated January 4, 2024: This guide has been updated to ensure accuracy and add other methods that can help troubleshoot and resolve wireless problems.