Intel Wi-Fi Network Adapter is missing from Device Manager

[Kiko4alina]

Intel (R) Wifi adapter is missing from the device manager and will not install when I scan the drive. I don't know which model I would need to install under the "Add Legacy Hardware" option within the Intel or Intel Corp. 

I've tried, 

• Reset network 
• Command Prompt with "netsh....." 
• Control Panel network and Internet troubleshooting
• Services with WLAN Auto Config, WWAN AutoConfig, 
• Device manager - update, disable, enable, uninstall, 
• Unplug everything from the core connection, wall plug, 

Nothing worked....Please help! 

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

I can see how frustrating this must be, especially after trying so many steps with no success. You’ve put in a lot of effort, and I appreciate you sharing everything you've done so far. Let’s take this from here and work together to get your Wi-Fi adapter back up and running.

Try these troubleshooting steps:

1. Show Hidden Devices in Device Manager

Sometimes, the adapter is hidden:

1. Open Device Manager (Win + X → Device Manager).
2. Click View > Select Show hidden devices.
3. Expand Network adapters and check if the Intel Wi-Fi adapter is listed.
   • If you see it grayed out, right-click and select Enable.
   • If it’s missing, proceed to the next step.

2. Check BIOS to Ensure Wi-Fi is Enabled

1. Restart your PC and press F2 / Del / F10 / Esc (varies by brand) to enter BIOS Setup.
2. Look for Wireless / LAN / Wi-Fi settings.
3. Ensure Wi-Fi is enabled and Save & Exit.

3. Run Intel Driver & Support Assistant

1. Download and run the Intel Driver & Support Assistant.
2. Let it scan for missing drivers and install the latest Wi-Fi drivers.
3. Restart your PC after installation.

4. Reinstall Wi-Fi Driver Manually

If the Intel tool does not detect the adapter:

Identify Your Adapter Model:

• Go to HP Support > Enter your laptop model > Find the Wi-Fi driver for your system.
• Alternatively, check your PC specs on the manufacturer’s website.

Download and Install the Correct Driver:

• Go to the Intel Wireless Drivers page.
• Select the driver for your Wi-Fi adapter and Windows version.
• Install and restart your PC.

 

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

5. Add Legacy Hardware (If Missing in Device Manager)

If the adapter is not detected at all, manually install it:

1. Open Device Manager.
2. Click Action > Add Legacy Hardware.
3. Choose Install the hardware manually.
4. Select Network Adapters.
5. Select Intel > Choose the appropriate Wi-Fi adapter model (if unsure, check your PC’s official specs).
6. Complete the setup and restart.

6. Perform a Hard Reset (Power Drain)

If the issue persists, try this:

1. Shut down the PC.
2. Unplug the power cable & battery (if removable).
3. Hold the power button for 30 seconds.
4. Reconnect everything and turn on your PC.

7. Check for Hardware Failure

If none of the above works:

1. Boot into a Linux USB (Ubuntu Live USB) and check if Wi-Fi is detected.
2. If not detected, the Wi-Fi card may be physically damaged.
3. Contact HP Support or consider replacing the Wi-Fi card.

Your time and effort matter, and I want to make sure we get this resolved for you. I hope the steps provided help, but if the issue persists, don’t hesitate to reach out, we’ll keep working on it until we find a solution!

Let me know if you need further help! 😊

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?"—your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,