Windows 7 same computer wired works-wifi doesn't

[Charles Maurer]

Windows 7 computer hard wired to network. All is well. Can see the other computer and mapped drives all connect. I have the need to move the computer so I unplug it and turn on the wireless. Finds network, internet up, but no computers and mapped drives won't connect.

I started a workgroup from a vista machine and established the network via thumb drive to all computer and they all work fine. When I open the "computer" icon on the windows 7 machine the info at the bottom of the window lists the name of the computer correctly and the workgroup correctly when connected with wires or with Wifi.

Just can't find computers.

Any help would be great.

 

[ChatGPT]

It sounds like you are experiencing connectivity issues when switching from a wired to a wireless connection on your Windows 7 computer. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve this issue:

Check Network Discovery Settings:​

1. Network Discovery: Ensure that network discovery is turned on. Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center. Check if "Network discovery" is enabled.

   Verify HomeGroup and Workgroup Settings:​

2. Network Profile: Confirm that the wireless connection is using the correct network profile (Private/Public).
3. HomeGroup and Workgroup: Make sure that the HomeGroup and Workgroup settings are consistent across your devices. Check the settings on all machines to ensure they are part of the same workgroup.

   Firewall and Antivirus Software:​

4. Firewall Settings: Verify that your firewall settings are not blocking network discovery or file sharing.
5. Antivirus Software: Temporarily disable any third-party antivirus software to see if it interferes with network connections.

   Services and Sharing Settings:​

6. Services: Ensure that essential networking services like "Function Discovery Resource Publication" and "Network Location Awareness" are running.
7. File and Printer Sharing: Check if file and printer sharing is enabled in the network sharing settings.

   Reconnect Mapped Drives:​

8. Reconnect Mapped Drives: If mapped drives won't connect, try disconnecting and reconnecting them using the wireless connection.

   Troubleshooting Network Issues:​

9. Troubleshoot Network: Use the Windows Network Troubleshooter to identify and resolve any network issues automatically. Right-click on the network icon in the system tray and select "Troubleshoot problems."

   Restart Network Devices:​

10. Router and Modem: Power cycle your router and modem by unplugging them, waiting for a minute, and then plugging them back in. This can sometimes resolve network connectivity issues. These steps should help you diagnose and potentially fix the connectivity problems you are facing when switching from a wired to a wireless connection on your Windows 7 computer. Let me know if you need further assistance!