We use our laptops every day, to watch movies, TV shows, and work. BUT Wi-Fi is necessary for that, and sometimes it just won’t connect. Although wireless connections are largely a simple process, sometimes some factors result in disrupted connections. However, some hacks can fix this issue, if followed correctly. Read on to find more about it!
How to Set up the Wireless Network
Firstly, the right equipment should be bought for this purpose. The device should have access to a broadband internet connection, a wireless router, and a wireless network adapter. After this, the start button on the laptop should be clicked, and the device manager should be typed in the search box.
The option for device manager should be clicked and should be expanded to network adapters. Adding on, the wireless router needs to be kept in a central location away from walls and metal objects. The wireless network also needs to be secured by changing the default username and password, plus adding a password for the network. Towards the end, the network icon should be clicked, and the assigned network should be connected from the list.
How To Fix a Laptop That Won’t Connect To Wi-Fi?
Issues To Address First
Just before we jump onto the heavy stuff, take a look at these.
- Check if the router is unplugged or if the power is unavailable, as that can disrupt the Wi-Fi connection with the laptop.
- Determine whether the laptop is trying to establish a connection with another Wi-Fi network since it will be unable to connect if the Wi-Fi connection is under use.
- Check if the Wi-Fi password was recently changed since that would prevent Wi-Fi connection with the laptop.
- Determine if other websites are working, as certain websites are down at times and make the Wi-Fi connection appear to be down.
- Also, determine if the Wi-Fi is connected by moving closer to the router
Steps To Restore Wi–Fi Connection (H3)
Occasionally, the laptop refuses to connect with the Wi-Fi regardless of following the laid out steps. Upon encountering that issue, certain steps can be followed.
Restart The Modem and Router
The very first step is to restart the modem and router, as this method can easily troubleshoot the issue. Following are the steps for this process.
– Remove cables connected to the modem and router
– Wait for around 30 seconds
– Insert the modem back in and turn on the power button
– Wait for around 1 minute
– Insert in the router and turn on the power button
– Wait for around 2 minutes
Restarting The Laptop
Another potential method is restarting the laptop. If restarting the modem and router does not work, the laptop should be restarted instead. The Wi-Fi can easily be connected, once the laptop reboots.
Troubleshoot
Laptops with windows have an automatic tool for troubleshooting. This tool can easily diagnose the root cause of the problem. Following are steps to easily use this tool:
– Turn on the Wi-Fi in the laptop through the wireless key
– Click on the start option and type troubleshooting the search bar
– Press the troubleshooting button two times, to select it from the options
– Press the Network and Internet option
– Press Internet Connections after that
– Up next, press the advanced option
– Press the administration option after seeing it
– Then click on the apply repairs automatically option, and click next after that
– The user account control window will show up, and press yes
– Wait while the troubleshooting process completes
– Read the results
– Information will be displayed on how to solve the issue
– Perform the suggested actions
Reset The Wi–Fi Driver
The third potential method is to reset the Wi-Fi driver, as occasionally the adapter can have problems with the other devices and that can impact the power of the driver. Consequently, the laptop is unable to connect with the Wi-Fi. Hence, the laptop can be connected to the Wi-Fi by resetting the Wi-Fi driver. Following are the steps for this method:
– Press the Windows logo key on the keyboard, and press the pause option after that
– Pres the device manager
– Double-click on the network adapter
– Clock right on the software for Wi-Fi driver and then click on uninstall device
– After that, the laptop should be restarted
After the laptop is restarted, it is advised to wait for a few seconds to determine if the Wi-Fi has connected. By this point most laptops can connect to the Wi-Fi, however, in case it is not connected there is another method to try.
Update The Wi–Fi Driver
Sometimes the laptop is unable to connect with Wi-Fi due to the reason that, the Wi-Fi driver is corrupt or old. In this case, the Wi-Fi driver needs to be updated to the latest version, and the network issue will be solved. There are two possible methods for this process, manual and automatic.
Manual Updating for Wi–Fi Driver
The Wi-Fi driver can be updated by accessing the manufacturer’s website of the wireless network. Examples include websites like Broadcom and Atheros. Through this, the website will be able to update the Wi-Fi driver in the laptop. However, it is important to employ the driver compatible with the laptop from the website.
Automatic Updating for Wi–Fi Driver
Updating the Wi-Fi driver manually can be a time-consuming and draining process. Hence, another method is to update it automatically with Driver Easy. This software is capable of recognizing the system and finding the required wireless network card, and windows system. The Wi-Fi driver is downloaded and installed automatically. Following are the required steps.
– Download the Driver Easy software
– Run the software and click on the Scan Now option
– Driver Easy shall scan the laptop and identify any problems in the driver
– Press on the Update All option, which will download and install drivers missing in the system
IP Address Renewal
Occasionally, the IP address comes in conflict with the laptop and prevents it from connected with the Wi-Fi. This issue can easily be solved by renewing the laptop IP address. Following are the required steps:
– Press the Windows logo key on the keypad, and press the R button
– This will open the Run box
– Type cmd in the Run box, and click on enter
– This will open up a black window
– Type ipconfig/release there, and then click on enter
– Wait while the command is completed
– Type ipconfig/renew and then click on enter
– Wait while the command is completed
– After this, connect the laptop with the Wi-Fi to determine if the process was successful.
Turn Off the Third-Party Antivirus Software on The Laptop
The third-party antivirus software can block Wi-Fi connections with the laptop. This method should be followed if all the other methods have failed since it risks the entry of viruses into the laptop.
Takeaway
Wi-Fi is a basic necessity and if your laptop is not connecting to it, then it is a problem. All these steps can help you fix this issue so you can get back to your work or Netflix binge!