If your wireless adapter is missing in Windows 10, you might notice that the WiFi icon has disappeared, and there’s no option to connect to wireless networks. This can be frustrating — especially when everything worked perfectly before. Don’t worry — this guide will help you fix the issue and get your WiFi back up and running.
The problem usually occurs after a Windows update, driver corruption, or hardware conflicts. Follow the step-by-step solutions below to restore your missing wireless adapter quickly and safely.
Common Causes of Wireless Adapter Missing Issue
Before diving into the fixes, it’s important to understand why this problem happens. Here are the most common causes:
- Outdated or corrupted WiFi drivers
- Disabled wireless adapter in Device Manager
- Windows update glitches or rollback issues
- Incorrect BIOS or network settings
- Hardware malfunction or loose connection (for laptops/desktops)
Let’s fix it step-by-step.
Fix 1: Restart Your Computer and Router
A simple restart can often fix temporary glitches in the network system.
- Shut down your computer completely.
- Unplug your router/modem from power for 30 seconds.
- Power them back on and reconnect to your WiFi.
Once the system restarts, check if your WiFi adapter reappears.
Fix 2: Enable the Wireless Adapter in Device Manager
Sometimes, Windows may disable the WiFi adapter automatically.
- Press Windows + X → click Device Manager.
- Expand the Network adapters section.
- Look for your wireless adapter (it may have names like Intel Wireless, Realtek, or Qualcomm Atheros).
- If it’s disabled, right-click → choose Enable device.
After enabling it, restart your PC and check if WiFi is working.
Fix 3: Show Hidden Devices in Device Manager
If your adapter doesn’t appear, it might be hidden.
- Open Device Manager again.
- Click View on the top menu → choose Show hidden devices.
- Expand Network adapters and look for any greyed-out or hidden wireless adapter.
- If found, right-click → Enable device.
This often helps when Windows hides inactive or missing drivers.
Fix 4: Reinstall or Update the Network Driver
A corrupted driver is one of the most common reasons for missing WiFi adapters.
- Open Device Manager.
- Expand Network adapters → locate your wireless adapter.
- Right-click → choose Uninstall device → confirm.
- Restart your PC — Windows will reinstall the driver automatically.
If not, manually install it:
- Visit your laptop or motherboard manufacturer’s website.
- Download and install the latest WiFi driver compatible with your system.
Fix 5: Use Command Prompt to Reset Network Settings
If the issue is caused by a corrupted network configuration, reset it through Command Prompt.
- Type cmd in the Start menu → right-click → Run as administrator.
- Enter the following commands one by one:
netsh winsock reset netsh int ip reset ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew ipconfig /flushdns - Restart your PC and check if the adapter reappears.
Fix 6: Enable WiFi Adapter in BIOS
In some cases, the wireless adapter is disabled in BIOS settings.
- Restart your PC and press the BIOS key (usually F2, F10, Del, or Esc) during startup.
- Look for Wireless, Network, or LAN settings.
- Ensure the Wireless Network Adapter is set to Enabled.
- Save and exit the BIOS (usually F10).
After booting back into Windows, your adapter should appear again.
Fix 7: Run Windows Network Troubleshooter
Let Windows detect and fix the problem automatically.
- Press Windows + I → go to Network & Internet.
- Click Status → then select Network Troubleshooter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
Windows will scan your system and suggest automatic repairs if any adapter issues are detected.
Fix 8: Check for Windows Updates
Sometimes Microsoft releases updates that fix missing driver issues.
- Press Windows + I → go to Update & Security.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install all pending updates and restart your system.
After rebooting, check if your wireless adapter appears.
Fix 9: Reset Network Settings
If none of the above works, a full network reset might fix it.
- Press Windows + I → open Network & Internet.
- Scroll down and click Network reset.
- Click Reset now and confirm.
- Your PC will restart automatically.
Once done, reconnect to your WiFi — your network adapter should be restored.
Fix 10: Perform a System Restore
If your WiFi adapter disappeared after a recent change, use System Restore.
- Press Windows + R → type
rstrui→ press Enter. - Choose a restore point from before the problem started.
- Follow the prompts to complete the restore.
This will revert your system settings to a previous working state without affecting personal files.
Additional Tips
- Always keep your network drivers updated.
- Avoid using random driver update software — download directly from official sites.
- Regularly update Windows to prevent driver conflicts.
- If using a USB WiFi adapter, try plugging it into another port.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why did my WiFi adapter disappear after updating Windows 10?
A1: Some updates may cause driver conflicts or disable the adapter. Updating or reinstalling drivers usually fixes it.
Q2: Can I use an external USB WiFi adapter instead?
A2: Yes, an external adapter is a good temporary solution until your internal adapter issue is resolved.
Q3: Will resetting network settings delete my saved WiFi passwords?
A3: Yes, after a network reset, you’ll need to re-enter all WiFi credentials.
Q4: Is the missing adapter a hardware problem?
A4: It can be, especially if you’ve recently dropped your laptop or made hardware changes.
Conclusion
When the wireless adapter is missing on Windows 10, it’s usually due to software or driver issues rather than permanent hardware failure. Start with simple fixes like enabling hidden devices, reinstalling drivers, or resetting network settings.
If the adapter still doesn’t appear, it could be disabled in the BIOS or physically damaged — in that case, consider contacting technical support or using a USB WiFi adapter as a backup.
With these steps, your WiFi should be back online in no time!
