Windows 11 · Windows
Install a Wi-Fi driver in Windows 11
Source-checked About 10 minutes
Answer
Use Windows Update first, then download the exact Wi-Fi driver from the PC or adapter manufacturer if Windows does not provide a working driver.
Check the exact Wi-Fi adapter before changing anything
Identify the exact device, app, account, error, and affected feature for the exact Wi-Fi adapter. Keep the current result visible or record it first, so the page's later actions can be tested against one clear starting point.
Use the supported controls for the exact Wi-Fi adapter
Follow the specific control path in the next steps and change only the setting or component that matches the observed problem. Do not combine resets, driver changes, account changes, or third-party tools before checking the documented route.
Identify the adapter and PC
Open Device Manager > Network adapters and record the adapter name plus the PC model.
Check Windows Update
Open Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates and install an applicable network driver.
Use the manufacturer source
If no working driver is offered, download the exact Windows 11 driver from the PC or adapter manufacturer's support site.
Install and verify
Run the signed installer or update the driver through Device Manager, restart, and reconnect. Do not use third-party driver-download sites.
Verify the result for the exact Wi-Fi adapter
Device Manager reports the intended adapter and driver version and Wi-Fi reconnects after a full restart. Repeat the original task once after reopening the relevant app or settings page, so a temporary screen refresh is not mistaken for a completed result.
Narrow down problems with the exact Wi-Fi adapter
If the installer says no compatible hardware, rollback is unavailable, the adapter vanishes, or connectivity is lost before a replacement is ready, stop broad resets and return to the last known state. Capture the exact error, versions, hardware or account scope, and failed step before using the linked official support channel.
Video walkthrough
If it does not work
- If the exact Wi-Fi adapter is unchanged after the documented check, return to the first observed condition and identify whether it affects one app, account, device, or every task before repeating steps.
- If the labels differ after an update or the device is managed, retain the exact condition and use the linked owner source before removing data, resetting Windows, or installing an unrelated tool.
Sources and verification
Checked against official documentation on . Scope: Windows.
Follow the linked first-party guidance if labels differ after a platform or app update.