How To Fix WiFi Network List Not Showing on Windows?

When trying to connect to the internet on your Windows device, a common issue you might face is the WiFi network list not showing up. This problem can occur for various reasons, such as disabled WiFi settings, outdated drivers, or problems with the network adapter itself. Interference from other devices or incorrect router configurations can also prevent your WiFi networks from appearing.

The most frequent causes include physical switches being turned off, Airplane Mode being enabled, or issues with Windows services like WLAN AutoConfig.

In this guide, we’ll cover ways to fix the issue. So, without further ado, let’s get started.

Quick Fixes

• Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve connectivity issues.
• Restart Your Router: Unplug the power cable from your router. Wait for about 30 seconds. Plug the power cable back in and wait for the router to fully restart.
• Ensure WiFi is Enabled: Make sure that your WiFi is turned on both in Windows and physically on your device.
• Ensure Airplane Mode is Disabled: Sometimes, Airplane Mode may be accidentally enabled, which disables all wireless communications.
• Check Physical Switch: Look for a physical switch or keyboard shortcut that enables/disables WiFi. Make sure it’s turned on.

1. Run the Network Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can help identify and fix network issues.

1. Click on the Start button and type Settings, then press Enter.
   
2. Navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
   
3. Select Network and Internet and click on Run. Follow the prompts to see if Windows can identify any issues.
   

2. Check WLAN AutoConfig Service

Checking the WLAN AutoConfig service can help resolve WiFi not showing in the networks list by ensuring that Windows is actively managing wireless connections. This service is essential for detecting and displaying available WiFi networks.

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
   
3. Scroll down to find WLAN AutoConfig.
   
4. Right-click it and select Properties.
   
5. Ensure the Startup type is set to Automatic, then click Start if it’s not running.
   
6. Click OK to save changes.

3. Update Network Adapter Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers can prevent your WiFi from showing up.

1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
   
2. Expand the section labeled Network adapters.
3. Right-click on your wireless adapter (it may include “Wireless” or “WiFi” in its name) and select Update driver.
   
4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software, and follow any prompts that appear.
   

4. Reset Network Settings

This will remove all network adapters and reset networking components back to their original settings.

1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet.
2. Scroll down and click on Advanced Network Settings.
   
3. Under more settings, click on the button labeled Network Reset.
   
4. Click Reset now, then restart your computer when prompted.
   

5. Enable SSID Broadcast

Enabling SSID Broadcast can resolve WiFi not appearing in the network list by making your network visible to devices. If your router is set to hide its SSID, it won’t show up in available networks. To enable it:

1. Access your router settings by typing its IP address into a web browser (commonly 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
2. Log in with your credentials (default username/password can usually be found on the router).
3. Navigate to the wireless settings section and ensure that SSID Broadcast is enabled.
4. Save changes and restart your router.

6. Check for Interference

Other devices can interfere with WiFi signals, especially if they operate on similar frequencies (like microwaves or cordless phones).

• Move your router away from such devices if possible.
• Try changing the channel settings on your router’s wireless settings page to see if that helps improve visibility.

7. Reinstall Network Adapter

If none of the above methods work, you may need to reinstall your network adapter.

1. Open Device Manager again.
   
2. Right-click on your wireless adapter and select Uninstall device.
   
3. Check the box for “Delete the driver software for this device” if prompted, then click OK.
4. Restart your computer, and Windows should automatically reinstall the driver.

If you have followed the steps provided above correctly, you should be able to resolve the issue of your WiFi network list not showing up in Windows. Even after trying all these methods, if you’re still having trouble, it might be worth checking with your internet service provider or considering hardware issues with either your computer or router.