Windows 10 WiFi Not Working Fix (Step-by-Step Guide)

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Windows 10 WiFi Not Working Fix is usually needed when your computer cannot connect to WiFi or fails to detect available networks. This issue can prevent you from accessing the internet and online services.

In this guide, you’ll learn simple step-by-step solutions to fix WiFi issues in Windows 10 and restore your connection.

Quick Fix

Restart your router and your computer. This resolves many WiFi issues immediately.

Try This First

  • No WiFi networks appear → check if the WiFi adapter is enabled
  • WiFi is connected but not working → restart your router
  • WiFi disconnects frequently → update network drivers

If the issue is not resolved, follow the detailed fixes below.

Why Is WiFi Not Working on Windows 10?

If WiFi is not working, it usually means your computer cannot detect or connect to wireless networks due to system, driver, or network configuration issues.

This issue can appear as no WiFi networks found, WiFi not connecting, or constant disconnections.

What Causes WiFi Not Working in Windows 10?

  • WiFi adapter disabled
  • Airplane mode enabled
  • Router issues
  • Outdated network drivers
  • Incorrect network settings
  • System glitches

How to Fix Windows 10 WiFi Not Working

Try the following solutions one by one until your WiFi works properly.

Restart Your Router and Computer

Restarting both devices can fix temporary issues.

  1. Turn off your router
  2. Unplug it from power
  3. Wait at least 60 seconds
  4. Plug it back in
  5. Wait until all lights stabilize
  6. Restart your computer
  7. Try connecting to WiFi

Make Sure WiFi Is Enabled

WiFi may be turned off in system settings.

  1. Look at the bottom-right corner of your screen (taskbar)
  2. Find the network icon
    • it looks like a WiFi signal (bars) or a small computer/monitor icon
  3. Click the network icon once
  4. A small panel will open showing available networks
  5. Look for the WiFi button
  6. If it is turned off (usually gray), click it to turn it ON
  7. Wait a few seconds
  8. Check if available WiFi networks appear
  9. Try connecting to your network

If no networks appear, the WiFi adapter may not be working properly.

Disable Airplane Mode

Airplane mode disables all wireless connections.

  1. Look at the bottom-right corner of your screen (taskbar)
  2. Click the network icon (WiFi or computer icon)
    • it looks like a WiFi signal (bars) or a small computer/monitor icon
  3. A panel will open with connection options
  4. Look for Airplane mode
  5. If it is turned ON (highlighted), click it to turn it OFF
  6. Wait a few seconds
  7. Your WiFi should turn on automatically
  8. Try connecting to your network again

Enable WiFi Adapter

The WiFi adapter may be disabled.

  1. Press Windows + R
  2. Type ncpa.cpl and press Enter
  3. Find WiFi in the list
  4. If it appears gray, it is disabled
  5. Right-click it and click Enable
  6. Wait a few seconds
  7. Try connecting again

Forget and Reconnect to WiFi

Reconnecting can fix incorrect settings.

  1. Click the network icon
  2. Select your WiFi network
  3. Click Disconnect
  4. Click Network & Internet settings
  5. Click Manage known networks
  6. Select your network and click Forget
  7. Connect again and enter your WiFi password
  8. Test the connection

Run Windows Network Troubleshooter

Windows can automatically detect and fix WiFi problems.

  1. Click Start → Settings
  2. Go to Network & Internet
  3. Click Status
  4. Click Network Troubleshooter
  5. Follow all on-screen instructions
  6. Apply any fixes Windows suggests

If the problem continues, you can follow this guide:
Windows 10 No Internet Access Fix

Update WiFi Drivers

Outdated drivers can prevent WiFi from working.

  1. Press Windows + X
  2. Click Device Manager
  3. Expand Network adapters
  4. Right-click your WiFi adapter
  5. Click Update driver
  6. Select Search automatically for drivers
  7. Install updates if available
  8. Restart your computer

Reset Network Settings

Resetting network settings can fix deeper issues.

  1. Click Start → Settings
  2. Go to Network & Internet
  3. Scroll down and click Network Reset
  4. Click Reset now
  5. Confirm the action
  6. Restart your computer
  7. Reconnect to WiFi

Check for Router Issues

The problem may be with your router.

  1. Try connecting another device to the same WiFi
  2. If it does not connect, the issue is with your router or ISP
  3. Restart your router
  4. Contact your internet provider if needed

How to Prevent WiFi Issues

  • Keep drivers updated
  • Restart router regularly
  • Avoid weak signal areas
  • Keep Windows updated

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is WiFi not showing on Windows 10?

This usually happens when the WiFi adapter is disabled or drivers are outdated.

Can I fix WiFi issues myself?

Yes, most problems can be resolved with simple troubleshooting steps.

Is this a serious issue?

No, it is usually temporary and easy to fix.

You may also want to check our guides on Windows 10 No Internet Access Fix, WiFi Connected But No Internet Fix, and Limited Access Network Fix for related issues.