How to Enable Wi-Fi on a PC: 5 Methods for Windows and Linux

Wireless internet has long been standard for laptops, but what if you need to connect a desktop PC to Wi-Fi? Many users encounter this problem: the router broadcasts the network, but the computer doesn't see available access points or doesn't respond at all to attempts to enable the adapter. The causes can range from a disabled module in the BIOS to missing drivers or hardware limitations.

In this article, we will look at all the possible ways to enable Wi-Fi on a personal computer, regardless of whether you have it working Windows 10/11, Linux or even an outdated system. You'll learn how to check for a Wi-Fi adapter, activate it using software or the BIOS, and what to do if the module isn't there at all. We'll also cover common errors and how to troubleshoot them without calling a technician.

Important: If your PC is self-assembled or purchased a long time ago, the probability of not having a built-in Wi-Fi module is about 80% In this case, you'll need an external adapter (we'll discuss it at the end of the article). The instructions are also applicable to laptops, but with special considerations for built-in modules.

1. Checking the presence of a Wi-Fi adapter on your PC

Before attempting to enable Wi-Fi, make sure your computer is equipped with a wireless module. Unlike laptops, which almost always have Wi-Fi, desktop PCs often don't have it—especially budget builds or office machines.

To check if the adapter is present:

  • 🖥️ Physical examination: On the back panel of the system unit, look for antennas (thin “horns” 5–10 cm long) or a connector for connecting an external adapter (usually marked as USB 2.0/3.0 or Wi-Fi). Internal modules M.2 or PCIe visually invisible without opening the case.
  • 🔍 Device Manager: In Windows, click Win + X → "Device Manager" → expand the "Network Adapters" tab. Look for devices with names Wireless, Wi-Fi, 802.11 or brands Intel, Qualcomm Atheros, Realtek.
  • 📋 Command line: open CMD as administrator and enter: 
    netsh wlan show drivers

    If the response contains the line "Supported radio type" (Supported Radio Types), the adapter is present.

If there are no wireless adapters in the device manager and the module is not physically detected, proceed to last section About purchasing an external device. If you have an adapter but it doesn't work, read on.

⚠️ Attention: On some motherboards (eg. ASUS ROG Strix or MSI MAGThe Wi-Fi module is built-in, but disabled by default in the BIOS. This is done to save power or prevent conflicts with other network devices.
📊 What type of PC do you have?
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2. Enable Wi-Fi via Windows settings

If the adapter is detected but the network isn't working, check its status in the operating system. In Windows 10 and 11, you can enable Wi-Fi in several ways, from the taskbar to hidden settings.

Method 1: Notification panel (quick access)

  • 📱 Click on the icon networks in the lower right corner of the screen (next to the clock).
  • 🔄 If the icon is crossed out or gray, click on it → in the window that appears, find the button Wi-Fi and move the slider to the "On" position.
  • 🔍 If the buttons Wi-Fi no, the adapter is disabled at the system or BIOS level (see the following sections).

Method 2: Windows Settings

Open Settings (Win + I) and go to the section:

  1. Network and Internet → Wi-Fi.
  2. Make sure the Wireless Network slider is active.
  3. Click Show available networks and select your access point.

If the slider is grayed out and inactive, the problem may be with the drivers or a hardware issue. Check device Manager (see section 1) - there should not be an exclamation mark next to the adapter name.

The adapter is detected in Device Manager.

There are no errors (exclamation marks)

The Wi-Fi slider in Windows Settings is available

Antennas (if any) are connected to the motherboard-->

Method 3: Command line (for advanced users)

If the Windows interface does not respond, try turning on the adapter via CMD:

netsh interface set interface "Wireless Network" enable

Replace Wireless network the exact name of your adapter (you can see it with the command netsh interface show interface).

⚠️ Attention: If your access point doesn't appear in the list of networks after turning on Wi-Fi, check to see if its SSID is hidden in the router settings. Also, make sure the router is broadcasting within the range 2.4 GHz - some older adapters do not support 5 GHz.

3. Activating Wi-Fi via BIOS/UEFI

If the adapter doesn't turn on in Windows, it may be blocked in the BIOS. This applies to PCs with integrated modules (for example, on motherboards) Gigabyte B550 or ASRock Z690) or laptops with the function Airplane Mode.

To enter BIOS:

  • 🔄 Restart your computer and click Del, F2, F12 or Esc (Depends on the motherboard). The button is usually indicated on the boot screen.
  • 🔍 Find the section in BIOS Advanced, Onboard Devices or Wireless (names vary!).
  • 📋 Look for parameters like:
    • Wi-Fi / WLAN → install Enabled;
    • Onboard WiFi or M.2 WiFi;
    • Wireless LAN Radio (for laptops).
  • 💾 Save changes (F10) and reboot.

Example of option locations for popular BIOSes:

BIOS manufacturerChapterParameter
AMI BIOSAdvanced → Onboard DevicesWiFi Controller
Phoenix/AwardPeripheralsWLAN Support
UEFI (ASUS, MSI)Advanced Mode → Onboard DevicesWi-Fi/Bluetooth
Lenovo BIOSConfigurationWireless LAN

If there are no Wi-Fi options in the BIOS, the module is either missing or is controlled exclusively by the OS. In this case, return to section about Windows.

What should I do if I can't enter BIOS?

If the keys (Del/F2) do not work, try:

1. Disable fast startup in Windows: “Settings” → “System” → “Power & sleep” → “Additional power settings” → “Choose what the power buttons do” → uncheck “Turn on fast startup”.

2. Use a special button on the motherboard (for example, Clear CMOS to reset BIOS).

3. For laptops - hold down Fn + F2 (or another function key) when turned on.

4. Installing or updating drivers

A common cause of non-working Wi-Fi is missing or outdated drivers. This is especially true after reinstalling Windows or upgrading to a new version (for example, from Windows 10 on 11).

How to install the driver:

  • 🔧 Automatically:
    1. Open Device Manager (Win + X).
    2. Find the adapter in the "Network adapters" section, right-click → "Update driver" → "Search automatically".
  • 💿 Manually:
    1. Download the driver from the adapter manufacturer's website (Intel, Realtek, Broadcom) or motherboard.
    2. In the Device Manager, select Update Driver → Browse my computer for driver software → specify the path to the downloaded file.
    3. 🌐 Via Windows Update: Sometimes drivers are available as optional updates. Go to "Settings" → "Update & Security" → "View optional updates."

      4. If Windows does not see the adapter at all (there is not even an unknown device in the device manager), check:

      • Is the module connected to the connector? M.2 or PCIe (for internal adapters).
      • Is the USB port working (for external adapters).
      • Is the controller disabled? USB 3.0 in BIOS (relevant for USB adapters).

    5. Purchasing and connecting an external Wi-Fi adapter

    If your PC doesn't have Wi-Fi, the only way to connect to a wireless network is to buy an external adapter. There are three types:

    Adapter typeProsConsPrice (approximately)
    USBEasy installation, mobility, support 5 GHzTakes up space and can overheat.from 500 ₽
    PCIeHigh speed, antennas for better signalRequires opening the PC, not suitable for laptopsfrom 1,500 ₽
    M.2 (NGFF)Compact, built into the motherboardDifficult to install, limited choicefrom 2,000 ₽

    Recommendations for selection:

    • 🏠 Inexpensive is suitable for home use USB adapter (For example, TP-Link TL-WN725N or ASUS USB-AC53 Nano).
    • 🎮 For gaming or 4K streaming, choose PCIe adapter with support Wi-Fi 6 (For example, Intel AX200).
    • 💻 For laptops with a connector M.2 Key A/E - built-in module (for example, Intel Wireless-AC 9260).

      • How to connect a USB adapter:

      1. Insert the device into a free port USB 2.0/3.0 (preferably on the back panel of the system unit).
      2. Wait for the drivers to be installed automatically (or install them from the disk/manufacturer's website).
      3. Turn on Wi-Fi via the Windows notification panel (see Section 2).
    ⚠️ Attention: Cheap adapters without antennas (for example, for 300-400 ₽) often have a weak signal and only support 2.4 GHzIf your router is running on 5 GHz, this adapter will not work.

    6. Solving typical problems

    Even if the adapter is turned on and the drivers are installed, errors may occur. Let's look at the most common ones:

    Problem 1: "No connections available"

    Possible causes and solutions:

    • 📡 The router does not distribute the network: Check if Wi-Fi is enabled on the router (button WPS/Wi-Fi or via the web interface at 192.168.1.1).
    • 🔇 SSID hidden: Enable network visibility in your router settings or connect manually via “Settings” → “Wi-Fi” → “Hidden network”.
    • 📶 Weak signal: Move the router closer to the PC or use a repeater.

      • Problem 2: "Connected, no internet access"

      What to do:

      1. Restart your router and PC.
      2. In Settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi, tap Forget this network, then reconnect.
      3. Check your IP settings: open CMD and enter: 
        ipconfig /release

        ipconfig /renew

      4. If used PPPoE, make sure that the login/password is entered in the connection settings (not in the router!).

      Problem 3: The adapter keeps disconnecting

      Reasons:

      • 🔌 Energy Saving: In the Device Manager, click on the adapter → Properties → Power Management → uncheck the box Allow the device to be turned off...
      • 🔥 Overheat: USB adapters can overheat when used for long periods of time - use a USB extension cable for better cooling.
      • ⚡ Driver conflict: Uninstall the current driver and install the version from the manufacturer's website.
      How to reset Windows network settings?

      If problems persist, reset the network to factory settings:

      1. “Settings” → “Network & Internet” → “Status” → “Network reset”.

      2. Restart your PC.

      ⚠️ After the reset, you will have to re-enter passwords for all networks!

      7. Alternative ways to connect your PC to the Internet

      If you can't turn on Wi-Fi or don't have an adapter, consider these alternatives:

      • 🌐 Cable connection (Ethernet): The most stable option. Connect the cable from the router to the port. RJ-45 on PC.
      • 📱 USB modem: use a 4G/5G modem (for example, Huawei E3372) or smartphone in mode USB tethering.
      • 📶 Powerline adapter: transmits the Internet through electrical wiring (for example, TP-Link AV600). Suitable if the router is far away.
      • 🔄 Bridge mode (WDS): If you have a second router, set it up as a repeater to boost the signal.

      For temporary access you can also use mobile hotspot:

      1. On your smartphone (Android/iOS), turn on “Access Point”.
      2. On your PC, connect to the created network as you would to a regular Wi-Fi network.
      ⚠️ Attention: When using your smartphone as a modem, keep an eye on your data plan—some carriers block tethering or charge a separate data plan.

      FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

      My PC can't see the Wi-Fi network, but I have an adapter. What should I do?

      Check:

      1. Is Wi-Fi enabled on the router (the indicator should be on).
      2. Does the adapter support the router's frequency (for example, if the router operates at 5 GHz, and the adapter is only on 2.4 GHz).
      3. Is the network SSID hidden in the router settings?
      4. Are the adapter drivers updated (see Section 4).
      How do I find out which Wi-Fi adapter is installed on my PC?

      Open Device Manager (Win + X), expand "Network adapters" and find the device with the words Wireless, Wi-Fi or 802.11. You can also use the command in CMD:

      wmic nic where"NetConnectionStatus=2" get Name, Manufacturer
      Is it possible to connect Wi-Fi to a PC without an adapter?

      No, a wireless adapter (internal or external) is required for a wireless connection. Alternatives:

      • Use an Ethernet cable.
      • Connect via USB modem or smartphone (tethering mode).
      • Buy Powerline adapter to transmit internet through electrical wiring.
      Why is Wi-Fi slow on my PC?

      Reasons for slow speed:

      • Obsolete adapter standard (eg. 802.11n instead of 802.11ac).
      • Channel congestion 2.4 GHz (switch the router to 5 GHz, if the adapter supports it).
      • Weak signal (check the level in “Settings” → “Wi-Fi” → network name → “Properties”).
      • Restrictions from the provider (check your tariff).

      Solutions:

      1. Update the adapter driver.
      2. Change the Wi-Fi channel in your router settings (for example, from automatic to 6 or 11 for 2.4 GHz).
      3. Use a USB extender for the adapter to improve the signal.
      How to enable Wi-Fi on a Linux PC (Ubuntu, Mint)?

      In most Linux distributions, Wi-Fi is enabled like this:

      1. Click on the network icon in the upper right corner.
      2. Select "Wi-Fi is not turned on" → "Turn on Wi-Fi".
      3. If the networks are not showing, open a terminal and enter: 
        sudo rfkill unblock wifi

        sudo systemctl restart NetworkManager

      If the adapter is not detected, install proprietary drivers via Additional Drivers (Software & Updates → Additional Drivers).

    • 📖 Read also

    How to connect a Wi-Fi receiver on Windows 7: complete instructions A step-by-step guide on installing drivers, setting up a Wi-Fi adapter, and troubleshooting connection errors. How to Forget Wi-Fi on Windows 7: A Complete Guide A detailed article on how to delete or forget a Wi-Fi network on Windows 7. Solving connection problems How to set up a WiFi adapter on a laptop: a complete guide Step-by-step guide: how to properly install and configure a WiFi adapter on a laptop. Troubleshooting How to connect to Wi-Fi on a laptop: video and instructions Detailed instructions with video: how to connect a laptop to Wi-Fi. We solve problems with hidden drivers. How to Enable Wi-Fi on the MSI U135DX: A Complete Guide A detailed guide on how to enable wireless networking on the MSI U135DX netbook. Troubleshooting driver issues How to connect Wi-Fi to an Acer with Windows 7: Step-by-step instructions A detailed guide to setting up a wireless network on an Acer laptop running Windows 7.