How to Fix a Windows Network Adapter

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Run the built-in network troubleshooter

   Open the Settings app by pressing Win + I. Navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters. Click the Run button adjacent to Network and Internet to allow Windows to automatically identify and resolve common configuration errors.

   Note: This tool resets the network adapter state before checking for IP conflicts.
2. 1 min

   Flush the DNS and reset the network stack

   Search for cmd in the Start menu, right-click it, and select Run as administrator. Execute the following commands in sequence, pressing Enter after each: netsh winsock reset, netsh int ip reset, ipconfig /release, ipconfig /renew, and ipconfig /flushdns. Restart your computer immediately after the final command.

   Note: A restart is mandatory for these changes to take effect.
3. 2 min

   Reinstall the network adapter driver

   Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager. Expand Network adapters, right-click your primary wireless or Ethernet controller, and select Uninstall device. Check the box labeled Attempt to remove the driver for this device and click Uninstall.

   Note: Ensure you have the driver installer downloaded elsewhere if you are removing the driver entirely.
4. 1 min

   Scan for hardware changes

   Within the Device Manager, click the Action menu at the top of the window. Select Scan for hardware changes to trigger a refresh of your hardware tree. Windows will detect the adapter and automatically reinstall the base driver.

5. 2 min

   Disable power management settings

   In Device Manager, right-click your network adapter and select Properties. Navigate to the Power Management tab and uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power. Click OK to apply the changes.

   Note: This prevents Windows from putting the adapter into a sleep state that may fail to wake.