Windows Can't Detect Network Adapter: What to Do?

If your Windows PC isn't recognizing your network adapter, it can be frustrating, especially if you need internet access. Let’s go through the common causes and how to fix them.

1. Check the Physical Connection of the Adapter

If you're using an external USB network adapter, ensure it is correctly plugged in. Try switching it to a different USB port or testing it on another computer. Sometimes, simply reconnecting the device solves the issue.

2. Verify Network Adapter Settings in BIOS/UEFI

If the issue involves an integrated network adapter, it might be disabled in BIOS or UEFI settings. To check this:

  • Restart your PC and enter BIOS/UEFI by pressing Delete or F2 (depending on your motherboard).
  • Navigate to the Integrated Peripherals or Advanced section.
  • Ensure the network adapter is enabled.
  • Save the changes and restart your computer.

3. Install or Update Network Adapter Drivers

Often, Windows can’t detect a network adapter because the drivers are missing or corrupted. To fix this:

  1. Open Device Manager by pressing Win + X and selecting it from the menu.
  2. Expand the Network Adapters section. If your adapter isn’t listed or has a yellow exclamation mark, there’s a driver issue.
  3. Right-click on the adapter and select Update Driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers. If this doesn’t work, download the driver manually from the manufacturer’s website and install it.

4. Check Network Connection Settings

Sometimes the issue is due to incorrect network connection settings:

  • Open Network Connections by pressing Win + R and entering ncpa.cpl.
  • Find your network connection and ensure it’s not disabled. Right-click and select Enable if necessary.

5. Restart Network Services in Windows

Network services might not be working correctly, causing the adapter to be undetectable:

  1. Open Services by pressing Win + R and entering services.msc.
  2. Locate DHCP Client and Network Connections services. Right-click on them and choose Restart.

6. Reset Network Settings Using Command Prompt

A reset of TCP/IP and Winsock settings can sometimes resolve the issue:

netsh int ip reset
netsh winsock reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns

After running these commands, restart your computer.

7. Check for Windows Updates

Windows updates often include fixes for network drivers. To check for updates:

  • Go to Settings, navigate to Update & Security, and click Check for updates.

8. Scan for Viruses and Malware

Malware or viruses can sometimes block the network adapter. Run a scan with your antivirus software and remove any detected threats.