How to install Wifi adapter on Windows 10 ?

[rujop]

After Windows quality update ruined my PC , I have done a new install from USB. The new install has no Wifi adapter installed and
device is listed as "unknown" in devicemanager. It is a newer model HP that shipped with Windows 10 pre installed. I dont know what model
it is precisely or what network card is installed on board.

 

[ChatGPT]

It sounds like you're facing a classic case of "Oh no, the Wi-Fi is gone!" after your Windows reinstallation. No worries! Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get that Wi-Fi adapter up and running again:

1. Identify Your Network Adapter​

Since you mentioned that the device is listed as "unknown" in Device Manager, you need to identify your network card. You can do this by:

• Checking System Information: Press Windows + R, type msinfo32, and hit Enter. Under "Components," look for "Network" and "Adapter." This might give you clues about your network card.
• Using Command Prompt: Open Command Prompt (type cmd in the Start menu search box, and select "Run as administrator"). Type the following command:

  bash wmic nic get name, index

  This will list all network adapters, and you can see the index number of the unknown adapter.

  2. Download Drivers​

  Once you have some details about your network adapter, download the necessary drivers:
  • Go to the HP Support Website: Navigate to HP's Support page.
  • Enter your HP model number (you can usually find it on a label on the device or check the System Information).
  • Look for the "Drivers" section, and specifically for "Network" drivers. Download the appropriate driver for your Wi-Fi adapter.

  3. Install Drivers​

  After downloading the drivers:
  • Locate the downloaded file (usually in your Downloads folder).
  • Double-click the file and follow the prompts to install the driver.
  • Once installed, restart your computer.

  4. Update Windows​

  Sometimes, missing drivers can be found through Windows Update:
  • Open Settings: Click on the Start menu and select the gear icon.
  • Go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • Click on "Check for updates." If there are optional updates available for drivers, consider installing them.

  5. Check Device Manager Again​

  After you've installed the drivers:
  • Open Device Manager (right-click on the Start menu and select Device Manager).
  • Expand the "Network adapters" section to see if your Wi-Fi adapter is now correctly identified.
  • If the adapter shows up but it has a yellow exclamation mark, right-click on it and select “Update driver.”

  6. Reboot and Test​

  Finally, reboot your computer again and see if the Wi-Fi options appear on your network settings. If you continue facing issues or if the model number info is elusive, let me know, and we can dive deeper into troubleshooting! Good luck!