When your Wi-Fi is acting up on your Windows 10 computer, it might be time to update your Wi-Fi drivers. You can do this by accessing the Device Manager, locating your network adapter, and checking for updates. This guide will walk you through the steps to get your Wi-Fi back in top shape.
How to Update Wi-Fi Driver on Windows 10
Updating your Wi-Fi driver on Windows 10 can resolve connectivity issues and improve network performance. Follow these steps to ensure your Wi-Fi driver is up-to-date.
Step 1: Open Device Manager
First, you need to open the Device Manager on your Windows 10 computer.
You can do this by right-clicking the Start menu and selecting "Device Manager" from the list of options. The Device Manager is like the control center for all the hardware on your computer. It lets you see and manage all the connected devices.
Step 2: Locate Network Adapters
Next, find the "Network adapters" section in the Device Manager.
Expand the list by clicking the small arrow next to "Network adapters." This will show you all the network-related hardware in your computer, including your Wi-Fi adapter.
Step 3: Select Your Wi-Fi Adapter
Now, identify and select your Wi-Fi adapter from the list.
Your Wi-Fi adapter is usually labeled with terms like "Wireless" or "Wi-Fi." Right-click on it to open a context menu with several options.
Step 4: Update Driver
In the context menu, select the "Update driver" option.
This will open a new window where you can choose how to search for drivers. You can either let Windows search automatically or browse your computer for driver software.
Step 5: Search Automatically for Updated Driver Software
Choose the "Search automatically for updated driver software" option.
Windows will now search the internet and your computer for the latest driver software. If it finds an update, it will download and install it for you.
Step 6: Restart Your Computer
After the update is complete, restart your computer.
Rebooting ensures that any changes made to your system are properly applied. Once your computer restarts, your updated Wi-Fi driver should be functioning properly.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your Wi-Fi driver should be up-to-date. This can help to fix any connectivity issues you were experiencing and improve the overall performance of your network connection.
Tips for Updating Wi-Fi Driver on Windows 10
- Make sure your computer is connected to the internet before starting the update process.
- If the automatic search doesn’t find a new driver, visit the manufacturer’s website for your Wi-Fi adapter.
- Regularly check for updates to keep your Wi-Fi driver up-to-date.
- Create a system restore point before updating drivers, in case you need to revert the changes.
- If you encounter issues after updating, try rolling back to the previous driver version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I update my Wi-Fi driver?
Updating your Wi-Fi driver can fix connectivity issues, improve speed, and ensure compatibility with the latest network standards.
What if Windows can’t find an updated driver?
If Windows can’t find an updated driver, visit the manufacturer’s website and download the latest driver for your specific Wi-Fi adapter model.
Can I roll back to the previous driver version if something goes wrong?
Yes, you can roll back to the previous driver version through the Device Manager by selecting the "Roll Back Driver" option.
How often should I update my Wi-Fi driver?
It’s a good idea to check for driver updates every few months or whenever you experience connectivity issues.
Will updating my Wi-Fi driver affect my other network settings?
Updating your Wi-Fi driver shouldn’t affect your other network settings, but it’s always a good idea to note your settings before making changes.
Summary
- Open Device Manager.
- Locate Network Adapters.
- Select your Wi-Fi Adapter.
- Update Driver.
- Search Automatically for Updated Driver Software.
- Restart Your Computer.
Conclusion
Updating your Wi-Fi driver on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can significantly improve your computer’s network performance. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your Wi-Fi adapter is operating with the latest features and security patches. Regular maintenance, such as checking for driver updates, can prevent many common connectivity issues.
If you encounter any problems during the update, refer to the manufacturer’s website for troubleshooting tips or seek help from technical support. Staying proactive about driver updates is a small step that can make a big difference in your overall internet experience. So, don’t wait for your Wi-Fi to start acting up—keep your drivers updated and enjoy a smoother, faster connection today!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.