How to find out the Wi-Fi module model in a computer or laptop: all the methods

When Wi-Fi on your computer is intermittent or absent altogether, the first thing you need to do is determine the model of the wireless adapterWithout this information, it is impossible to download the correct drivers or check compatibility with new standards (Wi-Fi 6E, 802.11ax) or evaluate the possibility of an upgrade. In this article, we'll look at all current methods of module identification - from software (through Windows, Linux, macOS) before physical examination of the hardware.

The problem is that laptop and motherboard manufacturers rarely indicate the Wi-Fi adapter model in the documentation. Even in Device Manager Often, only a generic name like "Wireless Network Adapter" is displayed. We'll show you how to bypass these limitations and get accurate data—including vendor ID And device ID, which will be useful for searching for drivers on sites like PCI Database.

Method 1: Windows Device Manager

The fastest method for users Windows 10/11 - standard device ManagerIt shows all installed devices, including network adapters, but doesn't always display the full model. Here's how to get the most information:

1. Open Device Manager: click Win + X → Select Device Manager or type devmgmt.msc in a line Execute (Win + R).
2. Find the "Network Adapters" section: open it and look for devices with words Wireless, Wi-Fi, 802.11 or Network Adapter.
3. View properties: Right-click on the adapter → Properties → Details tab. From the drop-down menu, select Hardware IDs (Hardware Ids).

In the value field you will see lines like this:

PCI\VEN_168C&DEV_003E&SUBSYS_08011A56
PCI\VEN_168C&DEV_003E

Here:

• 🔹 VEN_168C — Vendor ID (manufacturer, in this case Qualcomm Atheros).
• 🔹 DEV_003E — Device ID (specific chip model).
• 🔹 SUBSYS_08011A56 — Subsystem ID (additional identifier, often indicates the module version for a specific laptop).

This information can be entered into a search engine or checked on the website. PCI Database (For example, pcidatabase.com). For example, VEN_168C&DEV_003E matches the chip Qualcomm Atheros QCA9377, which supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) And Bluetooth 4.2.

Method 2: Command Prompt (Windows)

For those who prefer console commands, the utility is suitable wmic (Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line). It displays detailed information about all network devices, including hidden or disabled ones.

Open Command line as administrator and enter:

wmic nic where "NetEnabled='true'" get Name, Manufacturer, Description, MACAddress

For a more detailed report (including PCI ID):

wmic nic get Name, Manufacturer, Description, MACAddress, PNPDeviceID

As a result, you will get a table with all network adapters. Look for lines mentioning Wireless or Wi-Fi. For example:

Name                     Manufacturer       Description                          PNPDeviceID
Wi-Fi                    Intel Corporation  Intel(R) Wi-Fi 6 AX200 160MHz  PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2723...

Here you can see that the adapter is - Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX200, and his PCI ID starts with VEN_8086 (manufacturer Intel) And DEV_2723 (chip model).

3. Method: View via BIOS/UEFI

If Windows does not boot or the adapter is not detected by the system, you can try to find information in BIOS or UEFIThis method is suitable for desktop PCs and some laptops (on Dell, HP, Lenovo (data about network devices is often displayed).

Instructions:

1. Restart your computer and log in BIOS/UEFI (usually a key Del, F2, F12 or Esc when loading).
2. Find the section Advanced, System Information or Onboard Devices.
3. Look for items like Wireless LAN, Wi-Fi Adapter or PCIe Devices.

In some versions UEFI (for example, on motherboards ASUS or Gigabyte) the complete module model can be displayed, for example:

• 🔹 Intel Wireless-AC 9560
• 🔹 Broadcom BCM4352
• 🔹 Realtek RTL8822CE

What to do if there is no information about the Wi-Fi module in the BIOS?

In this case, the module is either integrated into the chipset (rare) or connected via an interface M.2 or PCIe and is not displayed in the basic configuration. Try the physical inspection methods (Section 5).

Please note: in BIOS there may be no data on USB Wi-Fi adapters (For example, TP-Link TL-WN823N), since they are connected externally and are not built-in devices.

4. Method: Special programs (AIDA64, HWiNFO, Speccy)

If standard Windows tools don't provide enough information, third-party utilities can help. They scan hardware at a low level and often even show devices that aren't recognized by the system.

Top 3 programs for identifying Wi-Fi modules:

• 🔹 AIDA64 (paid, but there is a trial): section Devices → PCI Devices or Network → Network Adapters.
• 🔹 HWiNFO (free): tab Network → Wireless Adapter.
• 🔹 Speccy (free): section Network.

Example of a report in AIDA64:

The advantage of the programs is that they often show additional data: firmware version, supported frequencies (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz / 6 GHz), the type of antennas and even the temperature of the chip (in HWiNFO).

Make sure the adapter appears in the list of devices|

Please write down the full model name (eg. Broadcom BCM43602)|

Check the section with PCI ID (needed to search for drivers)|

Please note the connection interface (for possible replacement)-->

5. Method: Physical inspection (for laptops and PCs)

If software methods do not help (for example, the adapter is not detected by the system), the solution remains disassemble the device and check the markings on the module itself. This applies to:

• 🔹 Laptops (Wi-Fi modules are usually connected via M.2 or miniPCIe).
• 🔹 Desktop PCs (the module can be built into the motherboard or connected via PCIe x1).
• 🔹 Monoblocks (often use proprietary connectors).

Instructions for laptops:

1. Turn off the power, remove the battery (if possible).
2. Remove the bottom cover (usually held in place by Phillips head screws).
3. Locate the module - it looks like a small board with antenna wires (black and white/gray cables).
4. The module will have a sticker or inscription with the model, for example:
   • 🔹 Intel Wireless-AC 9260
   • 🔹 Qualcomm Atheros QCNFA364A
   • 🔹 Realtek RTL8852AE

For desktop PCs:

• 🔹 The Wi-Fi module can be integrated into the motherboard (look for a chip with antennas near the rear panel).
• 🔹 Or connected via PCIe x1 (small board in the expansion slot).
• 🔹 Often used in budget builds USB Wi-Fi adapter (external device).

⚠️ Attention: Before disassembling your laptop, check whether it will void your warranty. Some manufacturers (for example, Apple or MSI) Opening the case will void the warranty. Also, please note that the antenna cables are fragile; damaging them will result in signal loss.

Method 6: macOS and Linux

Users macOS And Linux They can also determine the Wi-Fi module model without disassembling the device. These systems often use more detailed terminal-based reporting.

For macOS:

1. Open Terminal (Applications → Utilities → Terminal).
2. Enter the command:

   networksetup -listallhardwareports

3. Search section Wi-Fi or AirPort. For example:

   
   Hardware Port: Wi-Fi
   Device: en0
   Ethernet Address: a8:20:66:xx:xx:xx
       

4. For detailed information, please use:

   system_profiler SPNetworkDataType

   There will be a line like this Card Type: AirPort Extreme (0x14E4, 0x172), Where 0x14E4 - This Broadcom.

For Linux (Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora etc.):

1. Open Terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T).
2. Enter:

   lspci -v | grep -i network

   Or for USB adapters:

   lsusb

3. Example output:

   
   03:00.0 Network controller: Intel Corporation Wi-Fi 6 AX200 (rev 1a)
       

   Here you can see that the adapter is - Intel AX200.

IN Linux you can also use the command iwconfig to check the current status of Wi-Fi or dmesg | grep -i firmwareto find information about loaded drivers.

7. How to use the obtained data?

Now that you know the Wi-Fi module model, you can:

• 🔹 Download drivers: go to the manufacturer's website (Intel, Qualcomm, Realtek) and find the software for your model. For example, for Intel AX200 the driver will be called "Wi-Fi 6 AX200 Driver for Windows 10/11».
• 🔹 Check compatibility: If you are planning an upgrade, make sure the new module supports your connector (M.2 2230 Key A+E or miniPCIe) and standards (Wi-Fi 6E requires support 6 GHz).
• 🔹 Diagnose problems: some modules (eg Realtek RTL8723DE) are known for poor performance on LinuxKnowing the model will help you find a solution in forums.
• 🔹 Buy a replacement: If the adapter is broken, look for one with a similar interface and characteristics. For example, instead of Intel 8265 you can put it Intel 9260 (both use M.2 2230).

When purchasing a new module, pay attention to:

⚠️ Attention: Some laptops (especially Dell Latitude or HP EliteBook) have a "white list" (whitelist) of enabled Wi-Fi modules in the BIOS. If you install an unmatched adapter, it will not work. Before purchasing, check for compatibility on forums or in the manufacturer's documentation.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

My Wi-Fi adapter isn't detected in Device Manager. What should I do?

If the adapter shows up as "Unknown Device":

1. Check it out Equipment ID (section 1) and find the driver by VEN And DEV on the website PCI Database.
2. Install the driver manually: download it from the laptop manufacturer's website (section Support) or chip (Intel, Qualcomm).
3. If this does not help, check the physical connection of the module (section 5).

For USB Wi-Fi adapters try another port or test on another PC.

How do I know if my adapter supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)?

Check the adapter model (using any method from the article) and compare it with the list of chips that support it. Wi-Fi 6:

• 🔹 Intel: AX200, AX201, AX210, AX411.
• 🔹 Qualcomm: QCA6390, QCNFA765.
• 🔹 Broadcom: BCM4375, BCM4387.
• 🔹 Realtek: RTL8852AE, RTL8852BE.

If your adapter is not on this list, it supports a maximum of Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac).

Is it possible to replace the Wi-Fi module in a laptop with a newer one?

Yes, but with some reservations:

• 🔹 Interface must match (for example, M.2 2230 Key A+E).
• 🔹 BIOS should not block inconsistent modules (problem whitelist at Dell/HP/Lenovo).
• 🔹 Antennas must fit the new module (usually 2 pieces for MIMO).

Best upgrade options: Intel AX210 (Wi-Fi 6E + Bluetooth 5.2) or Qualcomm QCNFA765 (for gaming laptops).

How to check the speed of a Wi-Fi adapter?

Speed ​​depends on:

• 🔹 Standard: Wi-Fi 6 (up to 2.4 Gbps) vs Wi-Fi 5 (up to 866 Mbps).
• 🔹 Number of antennas: 2x2 MIMO faster 1x1.
• 🔹 Frequencies: 5 GHz is faster than 2.4 GHz, but has a shorter range.

To test the actual speed:

1. Connect to the router via cable and check the internet speed (for example, on Speedtest.net).
2. Connect via Wi-Fi and compare results.
3. If your Wi-Fi speed is significantly lower, the problem may be with your adapter, drivers, or router settings.

Where can I buy a replacement Wi-Fi module?

Recommended sites:

• 🔹 AliExpress - cheap modules (for example, Intel 7260 for ~1500 rubles), but a long wait.
• 🔹 Amazon/eBay - fast delivery, wide range of products (for example, Intel AX200 for ~3000 rubles).
• 🔹 Local shops (For example, Citylink, DNS) - if you need the module urgently.
• 🔹 Forums (For example, NotebookReview) - to search for compatible models for a specific laptop.

When purchasing, please specify:

• 🔹 Compatibility with your laptop model (especially for Dell/HP).
• 🔹 Antenna cables included (if you buy used).