How to find the name of your Wi-Fi module: a detailed guide for all devices

Want to update drivers, replace a broken adapter, or simply check the specifications of your Wi-Fi module, but don't know how to find its exact model number? This problem is familiar to many: manufacturers often hide component information under generic names like "Wireless Adapter" or "Network Controller." Without the exact model number, you won't be able to download the correct drivers or check compatibility with new standards. Wi-Fi 6/6E or even evaluate the real capabilities of your device.

In this article we will look at 7 working methodsHow to identify the Wi-Fi module model on any device: from a laptop and desktop PC to a router and even a smartphone. You'll learn where to look for information in Windows, Linux And macOS, what commands to use in the terminal, how to recognize a module by its appearance, and where to find information in the documentation. Also, how to avoid common search errors and what to do if the system doesn't recognize the adapter.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, the instructions are suitable for all skill levels. We'll start with the simplest and move on to more advanced methods.

1. Method for Windows: Device Manager

The fastest and most versatile method for users Windows - checking via built-in device ManagerIt shows all installed components, including network adapters, even if they are disabled or not working correctly.

To open Device Manager:

• 🖱️ Right-click on the button Start (or keys Win + X) and select "device Manager».
• 📋 Expand the "Network adapters».
• 🔍 Find the devices with the words in the list Wireless, Wi-Fi, 802.11 or Network Controller (if the driver is not installed).

If the module name is displayed as "Network controller" or "Unknown Device", this means that the driver is missing or damaged. In this case, proceed to method #3 (determined by Equipment ID).

Example of correct display:

• Intel(R) Wi-Fi 6 AX200 160MHz
• Qualcomm Atheros QCA61x4A
• Broadcom 802.11ac Network Adapter

⚠️ Attention: In some laptops (for example, Dell XPS or HP SpectreThe Wi-Fi module may be integrated into the motherboard and appear as part of the chipset. In this case, use method #5 (disassembling the device).

2. Commands for Windows: WMIC and PowerShell

If you prefer to work with the command line, use the built-in utilities. WindowsThey provide information quickly and without unnecessary clicks.

Open Command line (Win + R → enter cmd) or PowerShell and run one of the commands:

Method 1: WMIC (Windows Management Instrumentation)

wmic nic where "NetConnectionStatus=2" get Name, Manufacturer, Description

This command will display all active network adapters, indicating the manufacturer and model. Look for lines mentioning Wireless or Wi-Fi.

Method 2: PowerShell (more details)

Get-NetAdapter | Where-Object {$_.MediaType -eq "Native 802.11"} | Select-Object Name, InterfaceDescription

This command filters only wireless adapters and displays their full names.

If the commands don't work, try this alternative:

netsh wlan show drivers

It will show information about the driver and supported standards (eg. 802.11ax For Wi-Fi 6).

3. Identification by hardware ID (if the driver is not installed)

When the system does not recognize the Wi-Fi module, it is displayed in the Device Manager as “Unknown device" with a yellow exclamation mark. In this case, it will help Equipment ID — a unique identifier by which you can find the driver and model.

Instructions:

1. Open device Manager (as in method #1).
2. Find the unknown device, right-click on it → "Properties».
3. Go to the "Intelligence» → select «Equipment ID» in the drop-down menu.
4. Copy the first line from the list (it starts with PCI\VEN_ or USB\VID_).

Example ID:

PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2723&SUBSYS_00248086

Next:

• 🔍 Enter the copied ID into a search engine (for example, PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2723 Wi-Fi).
• 🌐 The first results usually lead to sites like pcidatabase.com or forums where users have already identified the model.
• 📥 On the manufacturer's official website (for example, Intel, Qualcomm) download the driver for the model found.

⚠️ Warning: Do not download drivers from third-party websites—they may contain viruses. Always verify the source and refer to the official documentation.

What to do if the ID starts with USB?

This means your Wi-Fi module is connected via a USB port (e.g., an external adapter). In this case, search for the driver by VID/PID (e.g., VID_0BDA&PID_8179 for the popular TP-Link TL-WN725N adapter).

4. Methods for Linux and macOS

Users Linux And macOS You can find out the Wi-Fi module model using the terminal. The commands vary, but the principle is the same: request information about network interfaces.

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

Open Terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T) and run:

lspci -knn | grep -iA3 net

Or for USB adapters:

lsusb

Example output:

03:00.0 Network controller [0280]: Intel Corporation Wi-Fi 6 AX200 [8086:2723] (rev 1a)
Subsystem: Intel Corporation Wi-Fi 6 AX200NGW [8086:0024]
Kernel driver in use: iwlwifi

Here is the model - Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX200.

For macOS

Open Terminal (via Spotlight or Applications → Utilities) and enter:

networksetup -listallhardwareports

Or for more detailed information:

system_profiler SPNetworkDataType

Look for the block Wi-Fi or AirPort (in older versions of macOS). Example:

Wi-Fi:
Card Type: AirPort Extreme  (0x14E4, 0x173)
Firmware Version: Broadcom BCM43xx 1.0 (7.77.111.1)

Here is the chip model - Broadcom BCM43xx.

5. Physical inspection: disassembling the device

If software methods do not help (for example, the module is not detected by the system or you suspect its malfunction), the solution remains disassemble the device and look at the markings on the adapter itself. This method is suitable for laptops, desktop PCs, and routers.

What you will need:

• 🔧 Screwdriver (usually a Phillips or Allen head for laptops).
• 📸 A phone for taking photos (so as not to lose screws).
• 🧲 Anti-static wristband (optional, but recommended for safety).

Laptop instructions:

1. Turn off the device and remove the battery (if it is removable).
2. Remove the screws on the bottom cover (usually marked with a symbol) Wi-Fi or WLAN).
3. Carefully pry off the lid with a plastic card (do not use metal objects!).
4. Find the Wi-Fi module - it looks like a small board with antenna wires (usually black and white).
5. Take a photo or write down the markings (example: Intel AX200NGW, BCM94360CS).

Examples of markings for popular modules:

⚠️ Note: In some ultrabooks (for example, Apple MacBook or Microsoft SurfaceThe Wi-Fi module is soldered to the motherboard. Disassembling such devices requires specialized skills and tools.

6. Checking the documentation and the box

Before disassembling the device or messing around with the settings, check documentation, which was included in the kit. The Wi-Fi module model is often indicated:

• 📄 In user manual (section "Technical specifications" or "Network adapters").
• 📦 On box laptop/router (look for stickers with inscriptions Wi-Fi, WLAN, 802.11).
• 💻 On sticker on the bottom of the laptop (sometimes the models of key components are indicated there).
• 🌐 On official website of the manufacturer in the specifications section of your model (for example, for Lenovo ThinkPad T14 or ASUS RT-AX88U).

Example from the documentation Dell XPS 13 (2022):

Wireless: Intel Killer Wi-Fi 6 AX1650 (2x2) and Bluetooth 5.1

If there is no documentation, try to find it in electronic form:

• 🔍 Enter your device model into the search engine + "specs" or "datasheet" (For example, HP Pavilion 15 specs).
• 📥 On sites like ManualsLib or Archive.org They often post scans of instructions.

Please note: Some manufacturers (eg. Apple or MicrosoftWi-Fi modules may be exclusive and not sold separately. In this case, they can only be replaced with similar modules approved by the manufacturer.

7. Specialized diagnostic utilities

If standard methods don't work, use third-party programs, which collect detailed hardware information. They are especially useful for older devices or non-standard configurations.

Top 5 utilities for detecting Wi-Fi modules:

Example of a report in AIDA64:

Device: Intel(R) Wi-Fi 6 AX200 160MHz
Manufacturer: Intel Corporation
Device ID: PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2723

⚠️ Note: Some utilities (for example, HWiNFO) require administrator rights. Don't download them from unofficial sources—use only the developer's websites.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Wi-Fi modules

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

Yes, but with some reservations:

• 🔧 Make sure the new module is compatible with the connector (usually M.2 2230 or M.2 1216).
• 📋 Check BIOS support (some laptops block non-original modules).
• 📡 Pay attention to the number of antennas (e.g. 2x2 MIMO or 1x1).

Example: B Lenovo ThinkPad T480 can be installed Intel AX210 instead of the standard one AC 8265, but a BIOS update will be required.

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

Check the model name:

• 🅰️ Models with AX in the title (for example, Intel AX200, Qualcomm FastConnect 6800) support Wi-Fi 6.
• 🔍 Look for the mention in the specifications 802.11ax or Wi-Fi 6.
• 📊 In Windows run the command netsh wlan show drivers and find the line "Radio type».

What should I do if the Wi-Fi module is not detected by the system?

Sequence of actions:

1. Check if the module is enabled by a physical button or in the BIOS (F2/Del when loading).
2. Update your laptop's BIOS (instructions on the manufacturer's website).
3. Install the driver manually Equipment ID (method No. 3).
4. If nothing helps, the module may be faulty (replacement required).

How do I find out the model of my router's Wi-Fi module?

Methods for routers:

• 📋 Look at the sticker on the bottom (look for models like Broadcom BCM4368 or Qualcomm IPQ8074).
• 🌐 Go to the router's web interface (usually 192.168.1.1) and check the section "Status" or "System Info».
• 🔧 Disassemble the router and inspect the board (the Wi-Fi chip is usually near the antennas).

Example for ASUS RT-AX88U:

«Wireless Chipset: Broadcom BCM43684 (4x4 MU-MIMO)»

Is it possible to use a laptop's Wi-Fi module in a desktop PC?

Yes, but you will need:

• 🖥️ Adapter for the connector M.2 (Key E) or PCIe (For example, M.2 to PCIe x1 adapter).
• 📡 Antennas with connectors IPEX (U.FL) (if the module supports them).
• 🔌 Connecting to a free slot PCIe or M.2 on the motherboard.

Example: Module Intel AX200NGW You can install it from a laptop to a PC via an adapter M.2 Key E to PCIe.