- No WiFi option in Quick Settings
- “No networks found” message
- WiFi toggle missing completely
- Airplane mode stuck on
- Unable to detect nearby networks
This guide provides step-by-step solutions to fix Windows 11 WiFi not showing networks safely and effectively.
Why Is Windows 11 Not Showing WiFi Networks?
The issue usually occurs due to one of the following reasons:
- Outdated or corrupted WiFi drivers
- Windows Update conflicts
- Network adapter disabled
- Incorrect network settings
- System file corruption
- Router or hardware-related issues
Let’s go through the fixes in order.
Fix 1: Restart Your PC and Router
This may sound basic, but temporary network glitches are often resolved with a restart.
- Restart your Windows 11 PC.
- Turn off your router for 2–3 minutes.
- Turn it back on and check for networks.
If WiFi networks still do not appear, continue below.
Fix 2: Enable the WiFi Adapter
Sometimes the WiFi adapter gets disabled.
- Press Windows + R
- Type ncpa.cpl and press Enter
- Locate your WiFi adapter
- If disabled, right-click and select Enable
Check whether available networks appear.
Fix 3: Update WiFi Drivers
Corrupted or outdated drivers are one of the most common causes.
- Right-click Start and select Device Manager
- Expand Network adapters
- Right-click your wireless adapter
- Select Update driver
- Choose Search automatically for drivers
Restart your PC after updating.
Alternative: Reinstall the Driver
- In Device Manager, right-click the WiFi adapter
- Select Uninstall device
- Restart your computer
Windows will automatically reinstall the driver.
Fix 4: Run Network Troubleshooter
- Open Settings
- Go to System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters
- Click Run next to Network Adapter
Follow the on-screen instructions.
Fix 5: Reset Network Settings
If settings are corrupted, a network reset can help.
- Open Settings
- Go to Network & Internet
- Click Advanced network settings
- Select Network reset
- Click Reset now
Your PC will restart automatically.
Fix 6: Enable WLAN AutoConfig Service
- Press Windows + R
- Type services.msc
- Find WLAN AutoConfig
- Ensure Startup type is set to Automatic
- Click Start if it is stopped
Fix 7: Run SFC and DISM Commands
System file corruption can cause network detection problems.
Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:
sfc /scannow
After completion, run:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Restart your PC after both commands finish.
Fix 8: Check for Windows Updates
Sometimes Microsoft releases patches for network issues.
- Open Settings
- Click Windows Update
- Select Check for updates
Fix 9: Check BIOS WiFi Settings
In rare cases, WiFi may be disabled in BIOS.
- Restart your PC
- Enter BIOS (usually F2, F10, DEL, or ESC)
- Look for Wireless or Network settings
- Ensure WiFi is enabled
When the WiFi Option Is Completely Missing
If WiFi does not appear anywhere in Settings:
- Check Device Manager for missing drivers
- Scan for hardware changes
- Install official drivers from your laptop manufacturer website
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my WiFi disappear after a Windows 11 update?
Updates sometimes replace or corrupt drivers, disable services, or reset network configurations.
How do I reinstall WiFi on Windows 11?
Uninstall the WiFi adapter from Device Manager and restart the system. Windows will reinstall it automatically.
Can a virus cause WiFi networks not to show?
While rare, malware can interfere with network settings. Running a full system scan is recommended.
Does resetting network settings remove saved WiFi passwords?
Yes. A network reset removes saved networks and passwords.
Final Thoughts
The Windows 11 WiFi not showing networks issue is usually caused by driver problems, disabled services, or configuration errors. In most cases, updating or reinstalling the WiFi driver resolves the problem quickly.
If none of the above solutions work, your wireless adapter may be experiencing hardware failure.
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