Can I upgrade my wifi card?

[steliosx]

Hello.

I have an HP 15-ay117ns. My wifi card has some issues finding networks lately and also it can't detect 5G networks.

Is it possible to upgrade my wifi card and if so, which cards are compatible with my laptop?

Is it something I could do myself (watching youtube videos) or do I need a technician?

Thank you very much in advance

[Paul_Tikkanen · Accepted solution]

Hi:

Yes, you can replace the existing wifi adapter with this one...

Realtek RTL8821CE 802.11 ac 1x1 WiFi + Bluetooth 4.2 Combo Adapter (MU-MIMO supported)      HP part # L17365-005.

The only place I have been able to find this model is on eBay.

https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_nkw=L17365-005&_sacat=0&_sop=15

The Realtek 8821CE wifi card will have a maximum throughput of 433 MBPS on the 5.0 GHz wifi band with an AC router.

Here is the link to the service manual where you can find the wifi card removal and replacement procedure...

http://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c05087748

[steliosx]

Thank you very much for the help.

Is that the only model that is compatible with my laptop?

[Paul_Tikkanen]

You're very welcome.

It is the only model wifi adapter that will work with the one antenna cable your notebook comes with.

You could install an Intel wifi card up to the 9260 non-Vpro, if you are willing and able to take the whole notebook apart including the display panel area to run the required second antenna cable.

You would have to purchase the antenna cable listed in the service manual for your notebook in order for it to fit correctly.

Or you could jury-rig the second antenna and route it some other way.  I don't recommend that, but some folks do it.