Strange Wi-Fi Issue

[etiennefromage]

After many hours, I successfully downgraded my laptop from pre-installed Windows 10 to Windows 8.1. After installation, my MicroSD card reader no longer works and I have lost the ability to use Wi-Fi. The laptop still detects Wi-Fi networks, but it cannot recognize any signal (the bars are all grayed out). The driver adapter is supposedly working fine. I tried updating, which makes no difference. I am ready to throw my laptop in the garbage. I am so frustrated. If someone can help me, I'd be so grateful. The two USB ports still work despite these other problems.

In Properties -

Manufacturer: Broadcom

Description: Broadcom 802.22n Network Adapter

Driver Version: 6.30.223.102

Physical Address: 60-6D-C7-ED-37-73

I'm not sure what other information could be useful.

[kyle_b]

If it was a fresh install of Windows 8.1, you would need to install the Windows 8.1 drivers, including the chipset drivers from the hp.com site if you have not already.

[etiennefromage]

I appreciate your reply. But I'm not sure which drivers to select from. HP doesn't give a simple Windows 8.1 download pack. After entering my model number and being forced to select Windows 10 (since that's what it came with), it gives me a breakdown of different drivers and chipsets I can choose from for my system: http://support.hp.com/us-en/drivers/selfservice/hp-stream-11-r000-notebook-pc/8499339/model/8961279#...

But these would not be accurate for me anyway since I need everything for 8.1. I am blown away by how challenging and frustrating this whole situation has been. I have literally spent my entire weekend trying to do this downgrade properly.  

I found this link, but of course my model is not listed there:

http://ftp.hp.com/pub/caps-softpaq/cmit/HP_Driverpack_Matrix_x64.html

I am ready to SCREAM!

[kyle_b · Accepted solution]

Actually, it makes sense to me that since your notebook came with Windows 10, HP is not offering drivers for Windows 8.1.  I would not think they normally support a downgrade.  There is also no complete guarantee that Windows 8.1 drivers exist for all of your devices. 

You could attempt to use drivers from a Windows 8.1 version of the Stream 11, here for example.  One difference is the original Stream 11's only supported 2.4 GHz Wifi so the Windows 8.1 Wifi drivers may not be valid.

[etiennefromage]

Thank you for your advice. The link you shared for the similar Streambook laptop had drivers that actually worked. After HOURS and HOURS of trying, something worked. Thanks again.