For windows there are a plethora of wireless networking adapters. Sometimes a driver simply does not work for one reason or another. These steps will help ensure your either on the latest driver or assist in downgrading the driver to see if connectivity can be restored.

1. Type "Device Manager" into the search field.

2. Click "Device Manager."
   

3. Double Click "Network Adapters" to expand the list.

4. Locate, & Double Click on your "Wi-Fi network adapter."

   • All Wi-FI adapters should have Wi-FI or Wireless designated in the name.

   • Wi-FI adapters with any sort of symbol over  on top of the icon may indicate a problem with the device.
     
     The image above depicts a wireless network adapter that has been disabled. Other icons may include a yellow triangle with ! point, or a red stop sign. IT helpdesk may be able to assist with these devices. We recommend you bring the device to Anschutz Library Room 201 for in person support.

5. Click "Driver."

6. Click "Update Driver."
   

7. Click "Search automatically for drivers."

If windows indicates the latest driver is already installed please "Roll" the driver back following the steps outlined below. If the driver was updated. Please reboot your computer and try again.

To roll back the driver

1. Once your back to the Wi-Fi driver properties. Simply click "Roll Back Driver."
   

2. Select a reason typically "For another reason."

   • Fill in "Troubleshooting, Other, or something else."
     

Wireless Driver Reinstallation Instructions
For Help Desk Use Only. Proceed at your own Risk. 

We strongly recommend visiting Anschutz Library Room 201 for in-person support. If you choose to proceed with the steps below, please back up your data and proceed with caution.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather Device Information

   • Record the make and model of the laptop.

2. Download Wireless Drivers

   • Visit the manufacturer’s website.

   • Locate and download the wireless network driver specific to your laptop model and wireless card.

   • Save the driver files to a USB flash drive.

3. Uninstall Wireless Device

   • Open Device Manager.

   • Locate your wireless network adapter.

   • Right-click and select "Uninstall Device."

     

   • Important: Do not check the box to delete the driver software unless you have already downloaded the correct drivers from the manufacturer’s website.

   • Click “Uninstall.”

     

4. Reboot Your Computer

   • After the device is uninstalled, restart your computer.

   • Use the USB flash drive to reinstall the wireless drivers if needed.

Next Steps: Advanced Wireless Driver Troubleshooting
For Help Desk Use Only. Proceed at your own Risk. 

If the issue remains unresolved, follow these steps to fully remove and reinstall the wireless driver:

1. Remove Existing Wi-Fi Software

• Open Control Panel > Uninstall a Program.

• Look for any Wi-Fi-related software (e.g., Intel PROSet, Killer Wireless, etc.).

• Uninstall any Wi-Fi software found on the device.

2. Check Device Manager

• Open Device Manager.

• Locate the wireless network adapter under Network Adapters.

3. Evaluate Device Status

• If the adapter is still listed:

  • Proceed with the uninstall steps below.

• If the adapter shows a yellow warning icon or is missing:

  • Reboot the computer.

  • Reinstall the wireless driver using the previously downloaded installer.

4. Uninstall the Wireless Adapter

• Right-click the wireless adapter and select “Uninstall Device.”

  • Important: Check the box to delete the driver software unless you have already downloaded the correct drivers from the manufacturer’s website.

• Click “Uninstall.”

5. Reboot the Computer

• After uninstalling, restart the computer.

• Use the USB flash drive to reinstall the wireless driver if needed.