Windows 10 updates are important for maintaining the security, stability, and compatibility of your computer. Microsoft regularly drops Windows updates to patch security vulnerabilities and enhance system performance. However bugs and glitches are still present there, and you may notice PC no longer connects to the internet after an update. Or the Network adapter is missing after Windows 10 update. Users report network adapter disappears from Device Manager and Unable to Access internet after Windows 10 update. This issue is really annoying, here this article explores the reason why Network adapter is not working and how to get back online after a Windows 10 update breaks your internet access.
Network adapter is not working windows 10
There can be various reasons why Network adapter is not working on Windows 10. In most cases Malfunctioning drivers Especially after an OS update is the primary reason for Network adapter missing on Windows 10. Again some cause incorrect settings can affect its functionality and break internet access on your Device.
Windows 10 no longer connects to the internet after an update here are proven solutions that is very effective to fix the problem and restore internet access on your PC.
Restart windows 10
It may be due to a temporary bug or glitch Network adapter is hidden and prevent internet access on your PC. Let’s first restart your PC or laptop and check if you can now find the network adapter.
If you are using a VPN client on your device, uninstall it and restart your laptop Now check if there is a difference.
Also if you’re using a wired connection, make sure the Ethernet cable is securely plugged into both the computer and the router/modem.
Firewall and antivirus programs can sometimes block network connections. Temporarily disable your firewall and antivirus software to see if it resolves the issue.
Scan for hardware changes and hidden devices
It may network adapter is hidden due to driver incompatibility with the current Windows 10 version. And this breaks internet access on your PC.
- Press Windows key + X and select Device Manager
- Open the View menu and click Show hidden devices.
- Click the Action menu, and then select Scan for hardware changes.
Now Expand the Network adapters to see if the Missing network adapter is back and the Internet problem is resolved.
Run network adapter troubleshooter
Windows 10 comes with built-in Network Troubleshooter and it’s very useful tool to check and fix issues with network Adapters.
The troubleshooter identify and eliminate the source of the problem.
- Press Windows key + X and select Settings
- Go to Network & Internet then click Status
- Now Scroll down and click Network Troubleshooter in the Advanced network settings section.
- Select All network adapters (default option) and click Next.
- The network troubleshooter will automatically detect the network problems on your PC.
Use the Network Reset option
If the troubleshooter didn’t fix the problem, you should try the Network Reset option. This will make all network settings default, clear incorrect settings or glitches intering with Windows 10 and fix the Network adapter is not working on Windows 10.
- Press Windows key + X and select Settings
- Go to Network & Internet then select Status
- Now scroll down and click Network Reset
- On the new window, select Reset now and Click Yes to confirm the action.
Now check After resetting the network settings the internet access is restored on your computer.
Update network adapter driver
An outdated or corrupted network adapter driver is the primary reason why Network adapter is not working after Windows 10 update. And you should try updating the driver for Network adapter to fix the problem.
Outdated or incompatible network adapter drivers can cause connectivity issues.
- Press the Windows key + X and select “Device Manager.”
- Expand the “Network adapters” category.
- Right-click on your network adapter and select “Update driver.”
- Choose the option to automatically search for updated driver software.
- Windows will download and install any available updates.
Check Your Power Management Settings
If the internet connection frequently drops after a few minutes you need to check if the Windows 10 power management feature disables the network adapter.
- Press Windows key + X and select Device Manager,
- Expand the network adapter, right-click on network select properties,
- Move to the Power Management tab and Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.
- Click Apply > OK to save the changes.
If you are using an external Network card or USB WiFi adapter check and ensure it is connected properly.
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