No WiFi Networks Found in Windows 11 (Quick Fix Guide)

If you’re seeing no WiFi networks found in Windows 11, even though you’re sure they’re available, the issue could stem from your system settings, drivers, or the network adapter itself. Here’s how to fix WiFi in Windows 11 and get reconnected fast.

Why Is My WiFi Not Showing Available Networks?

Several reasons may cause this issue:

• Missing or corrupted WiFi drivers
• Disabled or unrecognized wireless adapter
• Airplane mode enabled
• Software conflicts or recent updates
• Hardware issues or incorrect BIOS settings

In some cases, your system may show WiFi connected but not working, which could be caused by misconfigured DNS settings or a malfunctioning adapter. You can troubleshoot such cases using this guide for WiFi connected but not working.

Alternatively, issues with the network interface may come from a miscommunication between the wireless adapter and the access point, especially on dual-band routers or after OS changes.

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How to Fix WiFi in Windows 11

1. Enable WiFi Services

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Network & Internet > WiFi.
3. Ensure WiFi is turned On and Airplane Mode is off.

2. Restart the WLAN AutoConfig Service

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Scroll to WLAN AutoConfig, right-click it, and choose Restart.
3. Set the Startup Type to Automatic.

If WiFi still won’t show up, you might be dealing with a more serious hardware issue. You can follow this fix for a WiFi adapter not working in Windows 10, which also applies to newer builds of Windows 11.

3. Reinstall the WiFi Driver in Windows 11

1. Open Device Manager with Windows + X.
2. Expand Network adapters, right-click your WiFi adapter, and uninstall it.
3. Restart your PC so Windows reinstalls it automatically.

This step often helps if your WiFi network adapter is failing to detect networks or randomly disconnects. If the issue is consistent, check for possible WiFi not working on a laptop due to power-saving features or preinstalled OEM tools.

4. Scan for Hardware Changes

1. In Device Manager, go to Action > Scan for hardware changes.
2. This can detect any missing network devices or newly installed hardware.

5. Install WiFi Adapter Drivers Manually

If your WiFi option vanished after a system update or reset, it may indicate a missing driver. This issue is common when WiFi has disappeared in Windows 11, particularly after major OS changes.

Also, if you’re using any tunneling software, check whether a VPN is affecting your WiFi connection. Some VPNs disable native WiFi adapters temporarily or prevent network discovery.

6. Reset Network Settings

1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings.
2. Click Network reset, then select Reset now.
3. Restart and reconnect to WiFi.

If you’re troubleshooting in Safe Mode with Networking, note that Safe Mode with networking in Windows 11 may lack internet access due to driver limitations.

7. Additional Fixes to Try

1. Look out for system flags like WiFi Action Needed on Windows 10 if your device fails to authenticate on a public or secured network.
2. More universal steps are outlined in this WiFi won’t work on Windows 10 fix, which includes flushing DNS, renewing IPs, and checking adapter settings.

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FAQs