Error: Could Not Detect a Properly Installed Network Adapter

If you are seeing the message "Could not detect a properly installed network adapter" on your computer, it indicates that the system cannot find the driver or hardware responsible for network connectivity. Let’s go through the possible causes and solutions to fix this issue.

Main Causes of the Error

  • Missing Network Adapter Drivers: After updating or reinstalling the operating system, drivers may be missing or incompatible.
  • Faulty Network Adapter: The network adapter itself could be damaged or disabled in BIOS/UEFI.
  • Adapter Disabled in Device Manager: Sometimes, the network adapter may be accidentally disabled by the user or the system.
  • Hardware Conflicts: Other devices or software may conflict with the network adapter, causing it to malfunction.

How to Fix the Error?

1. Check for Drivers in Device Manager

  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Look under Network Adapters for any devices. If you see a warning icon or a question mark, it may indicate a driver issue.
  3. Right-click on the adapter and choose Update Driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for drivers. If the update fails, try downloading drivers from the manufacturer’s official website.

2. Install Drivers Manually

If automatic updates do not help, download the drivers from the official website of your network adapter or motherboard manufacturer and install them manually.

3. Check BIOS/UEFI Settings

  1. Restart your computer and enter BIOS/UEFI (typically by pressing F2, Delete, or Esc).
  2. Navigate to the Integrated Peripherals or Advanced section and make sure the network adapter is enabled.
  3. Save the changes and restart your computer.

4. Use Windows Network Troubleshooter

Windows has built-in tools for diagnosing network problems:

  1. Press Win + R and type msdt.exe /id NetworkDiagnosticsNetworkAdapter, then press Enter.
  2. Follow the on-screen instructions to diagnose and fix the problem.

5. Check Physical Connections

If you are using a desktop computer, ensure the network cable is properly connected. For Wi-Fi, make sure the adapter's antenna is securely attached.