Wi-Fi or Ethernet Adapter Is Missing
If your Wi-Fi or Ethernet adapter disappears from Windows, you may lose internet access completely or no longer see the expected network options.
This can happen after driver changes, Windows updates, BIOS changes, network resets, or hardware issues.
Step 1: Restart Your PC
Restart Windows before making any changes.
Temporary driver or service issues can sometimes resolve after a reboot.
Step 2: Check Device Manager
Right-click Start.
Select Device Manager.
Expand Network adapters.
Look for your Wi-Fi or Ethernet adapter.
If the Adapter Is Disabled
If the adapter appears disabled:
Right-click it.
Select Enable device.
Restart your PC.
Check Hidden Devices
In Device Manager:
Select View.
Select Show hidden devices.
Check Network adapters again.
If the adapter appears faded, Windows may no longer be detecting it correctly.
Look for Warning Icons
A yellow warning icon can indicate a driver or hardware issue.
Right-click the adapter and select Properties to view the Device Status message.
Save the error code if one is shown.
Step 3: Reinstall the Network Driver
If the adapter appears but does not work correctly:
Download the correct network driver from your motherboard, laptop, or network adapter manufacturer.
Install the driver.
Restart your PC.
For custom-built desktops, check your motherboard manufacturer's support page.
Step 4: Check Windows Network Settings
Open:
Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings
Check whether your adapter appears there.
If it is disabled, enable it.
Step 5: Check the BIOS
Some motherboards and laptops allow onboard Wi-Fi or Ethernet controllers to be disabled in the BIOS.
If the adapter does not appear anywhere in Windows, confirm that onboard networking is enabled in your BIOS.
Only change settings you understand.
Step 6: Check Physical Connections
For Ethernet:
Reseat the Ethernet cable
Try another cable
Try another router or switch port
Check for activity lights around the Ethernet port
For Wi-Fi:
Make sure Airplane Mode is disabled
Confirm any physical wireless switch is enabled
Check that external antennas are connected if your PC uses them
Still Missing?
If the adapter does not appear in Device Manager even after reinstalling drivers and checking the BIOS, the issue may be hardware-related.
Contact EXM Support if the problem appeared after changing network settings through EXM.