Fixing Missing WiFi Networks in Windows 10 and 11: Causes and Solutions

In the ever-evolving landscape of Windows operating systems, connectivity remains a cornerstone of user experience. Recently, a notable issue has emerged among Windows 10 and Windows 11 users: certain WiFi networks failing to appear in the list of available connections. This problem not only disrupts daily activities but also raises concerns about the underlying causes and potential fixes. This article delves deep into why this issue occurs and provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to resolve it effectively.

Understanding the Issue​

A segment of Windows 10 and Windows 11 users have reported that their home WiFi networks, despite being operational, do not appear in the list of available networks on their computers. Interestingly, these computers can detect other nearby WiFi networks without any hassle. This selective invisibility points towards specific settings or hardware compatibility issues rather than a widespread system malfunction.

Common Causes​

Before diving into solutions, it's crucial to understand the potential reasons behind this problem:

• Network Discovery Settings Disabled: Windows has a feature called Network Discovery that allows your computer to find other devices and networks on the same network. If disabled, it can prevent your system from detecting certain WiFi networks.
• Router Wireless Mode Configuration: Modern routers operate on different wireless standards (e.g., 802.11a/b/g/n/ac). If the router is set to a mode not supported by your computer's WiFi adapter, the network won't appear.
• Corrupted or Outdated Network Drivers: Drivers facilitate communication between your computer and hardware devices. Corrupted or outdated WiFi drivers can disrupt network detection.
• DNS Cache Issues: A corrupted DNS cache can lead to connectivity problems, affecting how your computer perceives available networks.
• Hardware Compatibility Issues: Certain WiFi adapters might not support newer wireless standards or frequencies, leading to compatibility issues with modern routers.

Step-by-Step Solutions​

Addressing the missing WiFi networks issue requires a systematic approach. Below are comprehensive solutions to tackle the problem:

1. Enable Network Discovery​

Network Discovery is essential for your computer to find other devices and networks. Disabling it can lead to the invisibility of specific WiFi networks.
Steps to Enable Network Discovery:

• Open Settings: Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
• Navigate to Network Settings: Go to Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Advanced sharing settings.
• Adjust Settings:
• Under both Private networks and Public networks, ensure that Network Discovery is turned On.
• Also, enable Automatic setup of network-connected devices.
  [*Restart Your Computer: After making these changes, restart your computer to apply the settings.

Outcome: Enabling Network Discovery should allow your system to detect previously hidden WiFi networks.

2. Power Cycle Your Router​

Sometimes, the issue might lie with the router itself. Power cycling can resolve temporary glitches affecting network broadcast.
Steps to Power Cycle:

• Turn Off the Router: Use the power button or unplug it from the wall socket.
• Wait: Allow the router to remain off for about 5 minutes to clear residual memory.
• Reconnect: Plug the router back into the power source.
• Wait for Reboot: Give the router a few minutes to fully restart and re-establish connections.
  Outcome: Power cycling can refresh the router's settings and potentially restore the visibility of WiFi networks.

3. Run the Network and Internet Troubleshooter​

Windows provides built-in troubleshooters that can automatically detect and fix common connectivity issues.
Steps to Run the Troubleshooter:

• Open Settings: Press Win + I.
• Navigate to Troubleshoot: Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
• Run Troubleshooter: Under Network & Internet, click Run next to the troubleshooter.
• Follow On-Screen Instructions: Let the troubleshooter diagnose and attempt to fix the issues.
  Outcome: The troubleshooter may identify and resolve configuration issues preventing network detection.

4. Update or Reinstall Network Adapter Drivers​

Outdated or corrupted drivers can hinder your computer's ability to connect to WiFi networks effectively.
Steps to Update/Reinstall Drivers:

• Open Device Manager: Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
• Locate Network Adapters: Expand the Network adapters section.
• Update Driver:
• Right-click on your WiFi adapter and select Update driver.
• Choose Search automatically for drivers.
  [*Reinstall Driver (if updating doesn't help):
• Right-click on the adapter and select Uninstall device.
• Confirm and restart your computer. Windows should automatically reinstall the driver.
  [*Manual Installation (if automatic methods fail):
• Visit your computer or WiFi adapter manufacturer's official website.
• Download the latest driver compatible with your system.
• Install the driver manually.

Outcome: Updating or reinstalling ensures that your WiFi adapter communicates correctly with your system and networks.

5. Flush DNS Cache and Reset TCP/IP​

Corrupted DNS caches and TCP/IP settings can disrupt network connectivity.
Steps to Flush DNS and Reset TCP/IP:

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
• Press Win + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  [*Flush DNS Cache:
• Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
  [*Reset TCP/IP Stack:
• Type netsh int ip reset and press Enter.
  [*Restart Your Computer: To apply the changes.

Outcome: This process clears corrupted network configurations, potentially restoring network detection capabilities.

6. Change Wireless Mode in Router Settings​

Mismatch between router's wireless mode and your computer's WiFi adapter can prevent network detection.
Steps to Change Wireless Mode:

• Identify Supported Wireless Standards:
• Open Command Prompt.
• Type netsh wlan show drivers and press Enter.
• Look for the Supported radio types section to identify compatible standards (e.g., 802.11a/b/g/n/ac).
  [*Access Router Settings:
• Open a web browser and enter your router's IP address (commonly 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
• Log in with your credentials.
  [*Navigate to Wireless Settings:
• Find the Wireless or Advanced Wireless section.
  [*Adjust Wireless Mode:
• Change the wireless mode to match the standards supported by your computer (e.g., set to 802.11n if that's the maximum supported).
  [*Save and Restart Router: Apply the changes and reboot the router if necessary.

Outcome: Aligning the router's wireless mode with your device's capabilities ensures compatibility and network visibility.

7. Install Microsoft Driver for WiFi Adapter​

Using a Microsoft-provided driver can sometimes offer better compatibility and stability.
Steps to Install Microsoft Driver:

• Create a System Restore Point:
• Press Win + S, type Create a restore point, and press Enter.
• Click Create, provide a name, and confirm.
  [*Open Device Manager*: Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  [Locate WiFi Adapter**: Expand Network adapters.
  [*Update Driver:
• Double-click on your WiFi adapter to open properties.
• Go to the Driver tab and click Update Driver.
  [*Browse for Drivers:
• Select Browse my computer for drivers.
• Choose Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer.
• Ensure Show compatible hardware is checked.
• Select the driver labeled Microsoft and click Next.
  [*Follow Installation Prompts*: Complete the installation as guided.
  [Restart Your Computer**: To apply changes.

Outcome: Installing Microsoft's driver can enhance compatibility, resolving issues caused by manufacturer-specific driver limitations.

Additional Considerations​

• 5 GHz vs. 2.4 GHz Bands: If your laptop doesn't support the 5 GHz band, it won't detect networks operating exclusively on that frequency. Ensure your router broadcasts on the 2.4 GHz band or consider upgrading your laptop's WiFi adapter.
• Router Firmware Updates: Sometimes, outdated router firmware can cause connectivity issues. Check your router manufacturer's website for firmware updates and follow their instructions to update.
• Physical Interference: Objects or electronic devices can interfere with WiFi signals. Ensure your router is placed in an open area away from potential sources of interference.
• Windows Updates: Keeping your Windows OS updated ensures you have the latest patches and fixes that can resolve underlying connectivity issues.

When to Seek Professional Help​

If after following all the above steps the issue persists, it might indicate a deeper hardware problem or an issue specific to your system's configuration. In such cases, reaching out to a professional technician or the customer support of your device manufacturer is advisable.

Conclusion​

The disappearance of certain WiFi networks from Windows 10 and 11 users' systems can be a frustrating experience. However, understanding the underlying causes and methodically applying the solutions outlined above can effectively resolve the issue. By ensuring that network settings are correctly configured, drivers are up-to-date, and hardware compatibility is maintained, users can restore their connectivity and enjoy seamless internet access once again.
Source: The Windows Club Some WiFi networks are not showing in the list on Windows 11