You have a problem when you can't connect to the Internet because Wi-Fi doesn't show up on your device. It helps if you know the cause, but even if you don't, you can take steps to correct the situation.
Problems with your router, ISP, or device may prevent your Wi-Fi network from showing up in the list of available networks. It can be caused by the following issues and more:
- Device out of range
- Network adapter is down or disabled
- There is some wireless interference
- This is a hidden Wi-Fi network
- Your device has a virus
- ISP has a problem
Try these troubleshooting steps in the order we've listed them (from easiest to most complex) until the Wi-Fi network appears:
Close to the router. This is the number one reason why your laptop, mobile phone, tablet, etc. lose Wi-Fi network. Routers have limited range, so getting closer to the router is the best way to see if there's an issue.
If you're having trouble connecting to Wi-Fi from a non-removable device like your TV, you may need to upgrade your network with a remote router. However, distance is only one possible reason for losing Wi-Fi, so before you decide to buy a new router or Wi-Fi range extender, try these other solutions.
Make sure the correct project is connected and open. Here are some things to note:
- Is the router plugged in? If you are using cable internet, the answer is yes. Check if you are unsure.
- Does your laptop have a Wi-Fi switch? Some are physical switches and some are toggle switches on your keyboard. If you set it to the off position, just turn it on to see all Wi-Fi networks around you.
Turn off Wi-Fi, wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on. It's like a mini reboot of Wi-Fi.
Restart the modem and router. Power cycling this hardware can fix internet connection issues and resolve wireless connection issues.
Restart your device. The router is just one piece of the puzzle; if a problem with your device causes the Wi-Fi network to disappear, restarting your computer or phone can also fix the missing Wi-Fi network.
In some cases, you may need to hold down the power button for a full minute to force shut down the computer. This is not a common method for rebooting, but it may be necessary to resolve the issue. After closing, please wait a few seconds before opening again.
Connect to a hidden network, assuming it is actually hidden. A Wi-Fi network can set its SSID not to be broadcast to devices, making it look like it's missing when in fact it's not easily visible.
Look for distractions. This is one of the many reasons why Wi-Fi connectivity drops. There are many objects around your home or office that can interfere with your wireless router. Potential problems include thick walls, appliances, fluorescent lights and other wireless devices such as security cameras.
Neighboring wireless networks may also interfere with your own wireless network. Changing the Wi-Fi channel number can solve the problem.
If the Wi-Fi network disappears on your Windows computer, restart the WLAN Autoconfiguration service. This service is responsible for finding Wi-Fi networks, so if this service is stopped or there is a problem, your computer may not be able to find the network.
Log in to the router and turn on the 2.4G network. Some devices (mostly older devices) cannot connect on the 5 GHz band, so do this if your router supports broadcasting on both bands.
If you are using a VPN, disable it. VPNs may interfere with normal network functionality.
You may be using a VPN without knowing it. They are included with some security software, so check your antivirus program and ad blocker for mention.
Uninstall the wireless device in Device Manager and then restart the computer. Windows will automatically add it back, hopefully fixing the problem in the process.
To do this, open Device Manager and go to View > Show hidden devices . Expand the network adapter group, right-click the wireless device, and select Uninstall device . Don't forget to reboot!
Install any missing device drivers. Missing network adapter drivers may be the reason why you don't see your Wi-Fi network, but this is almost always a problem only if you recently installed Windows.
If the wired network doesn't work either, you will need to use an available computer to download the driver. You can then put it on a flash drive to install it on a non-work computer.
Scan your computer for malware. Virus infection can cause various problems, one of which may be related to connecting to Wi-Fi networks.
Please contact your ISP. If your troubleshooting efforts don't resolve the Wi-Fi problem, the ISP that provides Internet service to your home can provide additional assistance. It's even possible that the company's entire network is down, in which case you can only wait.
To fix slow Wi-Fi speeds, close background programs, avoid signal interference, troubleshoot network devices, scan for malware, and contact your Internet service provider.
To protect your Wi-Fi network, turn on WPA2 encryption, change the network name, create a strong password, turn on your router's firewall, and turn off administrator rights.
If you see the "Wi-Fi does not have a valid IP configuration" error, restart the router, change the SSID and password, reset the firewall, or perform a network reset.
