Examining the Root of the Problem
Before attempting to fix Wi-Fi connectivity problems after an adapter reset in Windows 11, we must first understand what causes them. Typically, the network drivers become unstable or corrupted during the reset process. Windows may fail to properly reinstall them, leaving your PC unable to detect wireless networks.
Resetting the adapter essentially wipes its drivers to default settings. So the inability to see or connect to Wi-Fi networks points to missing, outdated or incompatible drivers. The solution lies in reinstalling the latest driver versions.
Running the Network Troubleshooter
Windows 11 has a built-in Network Troubleshooter that diagnoses and automatically fixes various connectivity issues. It’s wise to run it first before trying any manual methods.
To do so, head to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other Troubleshooters. Locate Network Adapter, hit Run and follow the on-screen prompts. The troubleshooter checks for problems like disabled Wi-Fi, incorrect IP and DNS settings etc. It will either fix the issue automatically or give you specific tips to resolve it yourself.
Updating Wireless Network Drivers
If the troubleshooter doesn’t help, your next step should be updating the drivers. Device Manager allows you to manually check for and install the latest versions.
Press Windows + X and select Device Manager from the context menu. Expand the Network Adapters section and locate your Wi-Fi adapter. Right-click on it and choose Update driver. Pick Search automatically for drivers. Windows will now search online and install suitable driver software for your adapter.
Alternatively, you can visit your PC or hardware manufacturer’s website and download the newest wireless driver available. After installation, reboot your machine and see if Wi-Fi connectivity is restored.
Uninstalling and Reinstalling Drivers
If the drivers are corrupted, updating won’t fix the problems. You’ll need to uninstall the present driver and reinstall it afresh.
Open Device Manager, expand Network Adapters, right-click the Wi-Fi adapter and select Uninstall device. Check the box to delete the driver software too.
Restart your PC and Windows will automatically reinstall the Wi-Fi adapter along with its default drivers. This often resolves driver corruption issues faced after an adapter reset.
Resetting Network Settings
Along with drivers, an adapter reset also restores network settings to default. Any customizations to IP address, DNS server etc. will be lost. Resetting these settings can therefore help revive Wi-Fi access.
Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network reset. Confirm that you want to reset and wait for the process to complete. After signing back in, check if the Wi-Fi networks are now visible and functioning.
Changing Router Frequency Band
In some cases, the adapter reset may have switched your router connection to a incompatible frequency band. Typically, 2.4Ghz offers greater range while 5Ghz delivers faster speeds.
If your router was previously connected to 5Ghz, try changing it to 2.4Ghz after the reset. Also ensure that the router and Windows Wi-Fi settings now match. Connecting to the correct band can fix certain connectivity issues.
Booting into Safe Mode
Corrupted system files may also prevent proper driver installation and connectivity after an adapter reset. Booting into Safe Mode loads only the essential files necessary to start Windows. This allows you to eliminate any potential driver conflicts.
Press Windows + R, type msconfig and hit Enter. Go to the Boot tab, check Safe boot and click OK. Restart your PC and it will now boot into Safe Mode. Try updating or reinstalling your Wi-Fi drivers here. If the connectivity issues are resolved in Safe Mode, corrupted files were likely the culprit.
When All Else Fails, Reset Your PC
If you still can’t get Wi-Fi working after the adapter reset, the nuclear option is resetting your Windows 11 installation completely. Backup your data and go to Settings > System > Recovery. Under Reset this PC, select Remove everything. This will reinstall a fresh Windows copy and install default drivers.
You should now be able to connect to Wi-Fi networks normally. Reinstall apps and restore data afterwards. With the wide range of troubleshooting steps covered, you should be able to revive Wi-Fi functionality after those pesky adapter resets. Let us know if any issues persist!
