How To Fix Computer is Not Detecting any Wi-Fi Networks

Your computer is not detecting any Wi-Fi networks because your network drivers are either outdated or corrupted. You will be able to verify if this is the issue by connecting a different device to your Wi-Fi. If you are able to connect other devices, it is likely that the problem is your PC’s Wi-Fi network.

Sometimes, restarting your router or WiFi modem will fix this issue. However, there will be instances when you need to go beyond just a simple reboot. The methods that we are sharing today will give you solutions when your computer is not detecting any Wi-Fi Networks.

Method 1 – Use Your Keyboard To Turn On Your WiFi’s Physical Switch

Laptops have shortcut keys that are dedicated to turning on your Wi-Fi. By pressing on these keys, you should be able to enable or disable your Wi-Fi network. Carefully review your keyboard and search for the Wi-Fi icon. Press the keys to toggle between enabled and disabled. In most cases, it is the Function Key + F2.

If you do not see any Wi-Fi switch on your laptop, then follow these steps:

1. Hold down the “Windows” and “R” keys on your keyboard and type in “ncpa.cpl”

2. Right-click the Wi-Fi adapter. You can toggle between enabled and disable. 

2. Connect to your wireless network.

If the issue persists try this fix

1. Right-click on the Windows Icon and click on “Settings”.
2. Click on “Wi-Fi” on the left pane of the window.
3. Toggle your Wi-Fi between disable and enable.

4. Try to connect to your Wi-Fi network again.

Method 2: Restart your Router

One reason your computer is not detecting any Wi-Fi network is when your router or modem is seemingly “hanging”. You can fix this by restarting your router.

1. Turn off the modem or Wi-Fi router.
2. Unplug the router or modem from the power source
3. Wait for at least 10-20 seconds before plugging the power cable again.
4. Switch the router on and try connecting the device again.

Method 3 – Enable Wireless Network Related Services

Your computer is not detecting any Wi-Fi networks when your wireless network services is down. So make sure that all of the following services are running:

1. Hold down the “Windows” and “R” keys to bring up the run dialog box.
2. In the run dialog box, type “services.msc” and hit Enter.

3. Check that the following services are started. Right-click on each service and choose “Properties”. You also need to check that their Startup type is set to Automatic. Click apply and hit Enter.

• DHCP Client
• Network Connected Devices Auto-Setup
• Network Connection Broker
• Network Connections
• Network Connectivity Assistant
• Network List Service
• Network Location Awareness
• Network Setup Service
• Network Store Interface Service
• WLAN AutoConfig

4. Restart your PC and try connecting to your network again.

Method 4 – Run Network Troubleshooter

Windows have a built-in Network Troubleshooter which can help you understand what is causing the issue.

1. Click on the Windows icon and type “troubleshoot settings” and press “enter”

2. At the left pane, choose “Troubleshoot” and click “Additional Troubleshooting”

3. Click on “Internet Connections” and click “Run the troubleshooter”

4. Follow the troubleshooting steps and once it is done, restart your computer and check if the issue is fixed.

Method 5 – Update Network Adapter Driver

Using an outdated network adapter driver will also cause connection issues. You can fix this issue by updating the adapter driver.

1. On your keyboard press the Windows key and R.
2. Type “devmgmt.msc” in your Run dialog box and hit Enter.

3. In your device manager, expand the Network adapter.
4. Next, right-click on the Wi-Fi controller and select Update Drivers.

3. In the Update Driver Software window, choose “Search automatically for drivers”

3. If you already have the latest drivers, then you will see the above message.
4. If that did not work you can go to the manufacturer’s website to get the most updated drivers.
5. Restart your PC.

Final Thoughts

It can be frustrating when your computer is not detecting any Wi-Fi network. Sometimes, this issue can delay your work or school tasks. Thankfully, fixing this issue is not difficult at all. Remember, if no other device can connect to your Wi-Fi network, it may be a case that your modem or router needs to be replaced.