To Update your network adapter at Windows, open the Device manager, right-click on your network adapter, then select «Update the driver». No third-party software is required. Here is the complete step-by-step procedure.
This video shows you, step by step, how to update your network adapter driver:
Explanatory video in French by Alucare, ideal complement to the page. View video (you can use YouTube's automatic translation)
How do I update my network adapter?
It exists three methods to update your network adapter in Windows. The fastest way is to use the Device manager, but the other two have their advantages depending on your situation.
Method 1: Using Device Manager (the fastest)
This is direct access, without using third-party software. Here are the steps:
- Press Win + X, then click on Device manager in the menu.
- Expand the category Network Cards to view the list of your network adapters.
- Find your network card: it often contains «802.11» (the switchboard Wi-Fi), the statement Wi-Fi 5/6, or your manufacturer's name, such as Intel Where Realtek. For the’Ethernet wired, try instead " Ethernet Controller ».
- Make a right click above, then select Update Driver.
- Click on Automatically search for drivers : Windows will check online and install the latest version, if available.
- Restart your computer to apply the update.
Once the driver is installed, your network adapter will be up to date and your internet connection will return to normal.
Method 2: Using the Command Prompt
This method opens the same Device manager, but by using a command. This is useful if the shortcut Win + X doesn't work at your place.
- Tape cmd in the menu's search bar To start up.
- Make a right click on Command Prompt, then select Run as administrator (Without admin privileges, the order will not go through.).
- In the window, type devmgmt.msc, then confirm with Entrance.
- Device Manager opens: You then follow the same steps as in Method 1 (locate the network adapter, right-click, Update Driver).
Method 3: via Windows Update (often more reliable)
Windows Update sometimes offers drivers that have been validated by Microsoft that the automatic search cannot find. These driver programs are tested and certified before being distributed. Here are the steps to follow:
- Open the Settings (Win + I), then go to Windows Update.
- Click on Advanced options, then select Optional Updates.
- Check the box for the network adapter update if it appears, then start the installation.
Please note: the option Optional Updates is displayed only if driver updates are actually available for your hardware.
Didn't work? Two ways to solve the problem
If Windows says the driver is already up to date but your network card still isn't working, a network error A persistent issue may be caused by a corrupted or incompatible driver. Here are two specific suggestions:
- Download the driver manually : Go to the manufacturer's website (Intel, Realtek, Qualcomm…), go to the support or downloads page, find the file that matches your version of Windows, and then start the installation. This software provided by the manufacturer often contains more precise configuration settings than the ones offered by Windows.
- Reinstall the driver : In Device Manager, right-click your network adapter and select Uninstall the device. Then restart your PC: Windows will automatically reinstall a clean driver.
For more persistent issues, run the built-in tool via Settings, then Troubleshooting Network Issues.
See also the FAQs from the manufacturer or the FAQs of the audience Microsoft : These resources list common issues related to network card products and drivers, and offer solutions tailored to your setup.
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