Enable Wireless Display to Restore Connect on Windows 11 Miracast Receiver

If the Connect app seems to have vanished on your Windows 11 PC, it hasn’t—Microsoft simply moved it behind an optional component called Wireless Display. Reinstalling it takes just a few clicks, and with the right settings and drivers, your computer can again act as a Miracast receiver for Windows, Android, and other compatible devices.

Overview​

Windows 11 streamlines the built‑in app set by placing certain tools, including the Connect app, behind “optional features.” The Connect app is the receiver that lets your PC accept a wireless screen projection using the Miracast standard. Install the Wireless Display feature and the Connect app returns to Start search (and to Settings pages where it integrates with “Projecting to this PC”).
The fastest route is through Settings: install Wireless Display, wait a minute or two, and you can start receiving casts. Power users and IT admins can add it with a single DISM or PowerShell command, and organizations can deploy it offline using Features on Demand. This guide covers each method, explains requirements, and includes tested troubleshooting steps for “Miracast not supported” or “feature install failed” errors.

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Background​

What the Connect app actually does​

• The Connect app turns your PC into a wireless display receiver using Miracast (Wi‑Fi Direct).
• It’s primarily for scenarios like presenting from a laptop or mirroring an Android phone to a larger PC monitor without cables.
• Windows can also act as a sender without the Connect app, but to receive a cast, the Wireless Display capability (which includes the Connect app) must be installed.

Why it’s “missing” on Windows 11​

• On Windows 10, Connect shipped preinstalled.
• On Windows 11, it’s an optional feature to keep the default image leaner and reduce background components many users never touch.
• The functionality remains first‑party, supported, and fully integrated once you add Wireless Display.

Miracast in plain terms​

Miracast uses Wi‑Fi Direct to create a local peer‑to‑peer connection from the sender to the receiver. It doesn’t require an existing Wi‑Fi network, though both devices often work more reliably when Wi‑Fi is enabled and drivers are current. Unlike Chromecast or AirPlay, Miracast is a standards‑based approach built into Windows and widely supported by many Android vendors.

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Install the Connect app from Settings​

The Settings path is the simplest way to enable Wireless Display and bring back the Connect app.

Quick steps​

• Press Windows + I to open Settings.
• Navigate to Apps > Optional features.
• Click Add an optional feature (sometimes labeled View features).
• Search for Wireless Display.
• Check Wireless Display and select Install.
• Wait for installation to complete, then search Start for Connect to launch the receiver.

Tip: You can also reach the feature from Settings > System > Projecting to this PC. If Wireless Display isn’t installed, this page provides a direct link to Add the Wireless Display optional feature.

Verify it installed correctly​

• Open Start and type Connect. You should see the app in results.
• Open Settings > System > Projecting to this PC. You should now see configuration options instead of a prompt to install Wireless Display.
• Optional: Pin the Connect app to Start for faster access.

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Install via PowerShell or DISM (one‑line commands)​

If you prefer the command line or you’re automating deployment, use one of the following methods. Run these in an elevated window (Run as administrator).

PowerShell​

Add-WindowsCapability -Online -Name App.WirelessDisplay.Connect~~~~0.0.1.0
To confirm installation:
Get-WindowsCapability -Online | Where-Object Name -like '[I]WirelessDisplay[/I]'
To remove later:
Remove-WindowsCapability -Online -Name App.WirelessDisplay.Connect~~~~0.0.1.0

Command Prompt (DISM)​

DISM /Online /Add-Capability /CapabilityName:App.WirelessDisplay.Connect~~~~0.0.1.0
Check status:
DISM /Online /Get-Capabilities | findstr WirelessDisplay
Remove it:
DISM /Online /Remove-Capability /CapabilityName:App.WirelessDisplay.Connect~~~~0.0.1.0
Notes:

• “Online” targets the running OS.
• The capability name must match exactly, including tildes.
• Installation downloads the package from Windows Update unless your device uses a managed source.

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Enterprise and offline installs (Features on Demand)​

In corporate or offline environments—especially those using WSUS/SCCM or disconnected networks—Windows may not download optional capabilities by default. In that case, install Wireless Display from Windows Features on Demand (FOD) media.
High‑level steps:

• Obtain the Windows 11 Features on Demand ISO that matches your OS release.
• Mount the ISO (right‑click > Mount) so it appears as a drive letter.
• Use DISM to add the capability and point to the media with /Source and optionally /LimitAccess.

Example:
DISM /Online /Add-Capability /CapabilityName:App.WirelessDisplay.Connect~~~~0.0.1.0 /Source:X:\ /LimitAccess

• Replace X:\ with the mounted FOD media.
• Your environment may organize FOD packages in subfolders or via a network share; consult your deployment documentation for the exact path.

Group Policy tip: On managed PCs, enabling “Specify settings for optional component installation and component repair” and checking “Download repair content and optional features directly from Windows Update” often resolves installation errors when WSUS is configured to block external sources.

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Hardware and driver requirements​

Wireless Display relies on both graphics and wireless network drivers exposing Miracast support. If your PC is older, or its Wi‑Fi adapter doesn’t support Wi‑Fi Direct, the Connect app will install but projecting may still fail.

How to check Miracast readiness​

• Run:
• netsh method (Command Prompt):
  netsh wlan show drivers
  Look for: Wireless Display Supported: Yes.
• DirectX Diagnostic method:
• Press Windows + R, type dxdiag, press Enter.
• Click Save All Information.
• Open the saved text and search for Miracast. It should read “Available” (often “Available, with HDCP”).
• In Device Manager, under Network adapters, a “Microsoft Wi‑Fi Direct Virtual Adapter” usually appears on systems that can do Miracast.

Drivers to update first​

• Wi‑Fi adapter: Get the latest driver from your PC or adapter manufacturer (Intel, Realtek, Qualcomm, etc.).
• Graphics: Update GPU drivers (integrated or discrete). Miracast uses the graphics stack; outdated drivers can block support.
• Chipset and BIOS/UEFI: On some systems, firmware updates resolve flaky Wi‑Fi Direct behavior.

If you see “Your PC doesn’t support Miracast,” it typically points to one of the above issues, or to a virtualization/VPN component intercepting the network stack.

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Configure “Projecting to this PC”​

After installing Wireless Display, configure the Connect receiver options in Settings.

• Go to Settings > System > Projecting to this PC.
• Set “Some Windows and Android devices can project to this PC” to Available everywhere or Available everywhere on secure networks.
• Set “Ask to project to this PC” to Every time a connection is requested for maximum control, or First time only for convenience.
• Toggle Require PIN for pairing for shared environments.
• Choose whether the PC can be projected to only when plugged in, and set standby behavior for the receiver.

Security best practices:

• On public networks, prefer “Available everywhere on secure networks” and require a PIN.
• In offices and classrooms, keep “Ask to project” set to Every time and consider renaming the PC to a clear label (e.g., “ConfRoom‑A‑Display”) so users don’t cast to the wrong device.

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How to cast to your Windows 11 PC (sender side tips)​

With the Connect app running (or with the PC discoverable from the Projecting page), try casting from your other device.

From another Windows PC​

• Open Quick Settings (Win + A), click Cast, then select your receiver.
• Or go to Settings > System > Display > Multiple displays > Connect to a wireless display.
• Or press Win + K to open the Connect flyout directly.

From Android​

• Use the device’s screen cast feature (often labeled Cast, Smart View, Screen share, or Wireless display).
• Choose your PC’s name from the device list and approve the prompt on the Windows receiver.

Compatibility note:

• Many Android devices support Miracast, but not all. Some vendors emphasize Google Cast instead. iPhone and iPad use AirPlay, which won’t connect to the Windows Connect app without third‑party software.

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Troubleshooting: feature won’t install​

If Wireless Display refuses to install or the Connect app won’t appear in Start search, work through the following.

Common installation blockers​

• The PC uses WSUS/SCCM and is prevented from downloading optional capabilities from Windows Update.
• Group Policy disables “contact Windows Update directly.”
• An offline image or metered connection blocks downloads.
• Corrupted component store or pending servicing operations.

Quick fixes​

• Temporarily connect to an unmetered network and try again.
• Open Services and ensure Windows Update and related servicing services are running.
• In elevated Command Prompt:
  
  Code:

  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  sfc /scannow

  Then retry the installation.
• On managed devices, enable the policy to allow downloading optional components directly from Windows Update, or provide FOD media and use DISM with /Source and /LimitAccess (covered earlier).

Error codes to recognize​

• 0x800F0954: Often indicates WSUS is blocking capability downloads. Fix via Group Policy or use FOD media.
• 0x800F081F / payload missing: Provide a valid source (FOD) and retry with DISM.
• 0x8024402C or similar: Network or update service proxy misconfiguration; test on a different network.

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Troubleshooting: Miracast won’t connect or stutters​

Once the feature installs, the next most common pain point is unstable connections.

Baseline checks​

• Confirm “Wireless Display Supported: Yes” for both the Wi‑Fi and graphics drivers (see earlier commands).
• Update Wi‑Fi and GPU drivers to the latest OEM versions.
• Reboot both receiver and sender to reset Wi‑Fi Direct negotiation.

Performance tips​

• Use the 5 GHz band or Wi‑Fi 6/6E if available for higher throughput and lower latency.
• Move the devices closer; Miracast is sensitive to interference and walls.
• Pause large downloads and briefly disable VPN clients—they sometimes insert virtual adapters that interfere with peer‑to‑peer connections.
• For presentations, switch Windows power mode to Balanced or Best performance to reduce frame drops.

Firewall and security​

Windows enables the necessary firewall rules when you install Wireless Display. If you run a third‑party firewall or security suite, ensure it trusts the Connect app and allows Wi‑Fi Direct traffic. In managed environments, verify that network isolation or AP/client isolation policies don’t prevent peer‑to‑peer connections.

Sender‑specific gotchas​

• Windows sender: If Cast shows “No wireless displays found,” toggle Wi‑Fi off/on and try Win + K again.
• Android sender: Make sure Location and Wi‑Fi are on; some Android builds require both to discover nearby devices.
• External displays: If the receiver PC uses multiple monitors, open the Connect app’s toolbar to switch between extend and duplicate modes for better readability.

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Best practices for classrooms, conferences, and meetings​

The Connect app is a quiet powerhouse for collaboration when configured well.

• Name the receiver PC clearly (Settings > System > About > Rename this PC).
• Use the Projecting to this PC settings to require approval and a PIN.
• Keep the Connect app pinned to Start or the taskbar for one‑click readiness.
• Maintain up‑to‑date Wi‑Fi and graphics drivers on the receiver; stale drivers are the top cause of glitches.
• If multiple rooms have receivers, publish a quick reference card with the room’s PC name and basic steps (Win + K from Windows, Smart View/Cast from Android).

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Differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11​

• Placement: Preinstalled on Windows 10; optional on Windows 11 via Wireless Display.
• UI integration: Windows 11 consolidates casting controls in Quick Settings and the Display page, with a cleaner “Projecting to this PC” experience once the capability is installed.
• Performance: Modern drivers and Wi‑Fi 6/6E hardware often improve stability and latency versus older Windows 10 setups—assuming your hardware supports it.

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Uninstall or reinstall if needed​

If you no longer need the receiver or you’re troubleshooting by starting clean, remove and reinstall the capability.

Remove from Settings​

• Settings > Apps > Optional features > Installed features > Wireless Display > Uninstall.

Remove and reinstall with commands​

• Remove:
  DISM /Online /Remove-Capability /CapabilityName:App.WirelessDisplay.Connect~~~~0.0.1.0
• Reinstall:
  DISM /Online /Add-Capability /CapabilityName:App.WirelessDisplay.Connect~~~~0.0.1.0

A reboot isn’t always required, but it can help if the Connect app doesn’t appear immediately after changes.

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Frequently asked clarifications​

Where did the Connect app go in Windows 11?​

It’s part of the Wireless Display optional feature. Install it from Settings or with one of the commands above, and the Connect app will be available again.

Is Connect the same as “Cast”?​

Connect is the receiver. “Cast” is the sending action. Windows can send to Miracast devices without installing anything extra, but to receive a cast, you need Wireless Display (Connect).

Do I need a Wi‑Fi network?​

Miracast uses Wi‑Fi Direct, which can work without a traditional network. However, many users see better reliability when both devices have Wi‑Fi enabled and up‑to‑date drivers.

Can I cast from iPhone or iPad to the Connect app?​

Not natively. iOS uses AirPlay. You’ll need a third‑party receiver that supports AirPlay if Apple devices are part of your workflow.

What if my PC says “Miracast not supported”?​

Update Wi‑Fi and graphics drivers first. If support still shows as “No,” your hardware likely doesn’t expose Wi‑Fi Direct or a compatible graphics stack. You can still project out to other devices using alternatives, but this PC won’t act as a Miracast receiver.

Is Wireless Display safe to use?​

Yes—when configured properly. Use “Ask to project” and PIN requirements, and limit discoverability to secure networks. Treat it like any shared resource in a public space.

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Alternatives if your hardware can’t do Miracast​

If you learn that your PC can’t receive Miracast, consider these paths:

• Wired: Use HDMI or USB‑C DisplayPort Alt Mode from the sending device to your display.
• Third‑party receivers: Commercial apps or dongles that support Google Cast or AirPlay can fill gaps, especially in mixed device environments.
• Remote collaboration: Tools that share application windows over the network may be better for long sessions where latency matters less than reliability.

Each option has trade‑offs in quality, latency, and cost. For quick local presentations with compatible hardware, Wireless Display is hard to beat.

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Step‑by‑step recap (Settings method)​

• Open Settings (Windows + I).
• Go to Apps > Optional features.
• Select Add an optional feature (or View features).
• Search for and select Wireless Display.
• Click Install and wait for completion.
• Launch Connect from Start, or open Settings > System > Projecting to this PC to configure discovery, prompts, and PINs.
• From the sender device, choose Cast/Connect and select your PC.

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Final thoughts​

The Connect app hasn’t disappeared from Windows 11—it’s simply moved behind the Wireless Display optional feature. Installing it restores a native, cable‑free way to mirror a screen to your PC using Miracast. Whether you prefer a few clicks in Settings or a single command with DISM or PowerShell, the process is fast and reversible. With the right drivers and a couple of smart security settings, Windows 11 becomes a reliable wireless display receiver for meetings, classrooms, and at‑home collaboration. And if your hardware doesn’t support Miracast, the ecosystem offers sensible alternatives—ensuring there’s always a workable path to share your screen when it matters.

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Source: Windows Report How to Install the Missing Connect app on Windows 11