Windows 11 Keeps Disconnecting from Wi-Fi? Try This
Frequent Wi-Fi disconnections on Windows 11 can be a frustrating experience, especially when you’re in the middle of an important task or video call. Network connectivity issues not only interrupt productivity but can also lead to data loss in some scenarios. If you’re facing the problem of Windows 11 continually disconnecting from Wi-Fi, you are not alone. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to diagnose and resolve the issue systematically.
Common Causes of Wi-Fi Disconnection in Windows 11
Before diving into solutions, it’s useful to understand why this might be happening. Here are some of the most common reasons:
- Outdated or incompatible network drivers
- Power management settings that disable Wi-Fi to save energy
- Router or network issues
- Interference from other nearby wireless devices
- Windows updates causing driver conflicts
Whether the issue is on your PC or with your network hardware, troubleshooting step-by-step can help isolate and fix the problem.
1. Restart Your Router and Computer
It might sound simple, but rebooting your router and PC can resolve temporary configuration issues. Turn off your router for at least 30 seconds before restarting it. Similarly, perform a full shutdown and restart of your PC to give the system a clean slate.
2. Update Your Network Drivers
Outdated or corrupt drivers are a common source of network instability in Windows 11. To update your drivers:
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Network adapters section.
- Right-click on your Wi-Fi adapter and choose Update driver.
- Select Search automatically for drivers.
If Windows can’t find an update, visit your laptop or motherboard manufacturer’s website to download the latest network drivers manually.
3. Disable Power Saving for the Network Adapter
Windows 11 may be turning off your Wi-Fi adapter to save power, especially on laptops. To prevent this:
- Open Device Manager again.
- Right-click on your Wi-Fi adapter and go to Properties.
- Navigate to the Power Management tab.
- Uncheck “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.”
- Click OK to save your changes.
4. Disable Wi-Fi Sense Features
Wi-Fi Sense can automatically switch your connection to open networks, potentially causing frequent disconnects. To disable it:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.
- Click on Manage known networks.
- Select your current network and turn off “Connect automatically” if it’s an open network.
5. Reset Network Settings
If the above steps don’t help, try resetting your entire network configuration:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings.
- Click on Network reset.
- Click Reset now and reboot your PC.
This will remove all network adapters and reinstall them with default settings, which may fix underlying issues.
6. Check for Windows Updates
Occasionally, Microsoft releases updates to address known bugs, including issues related to connectivity. To make sure you’re running the latest version:
- Go to Settings > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
Install any available updates and restart your computer to see if the issue is resolved.
7. Switch to a Different Frequency Band
Modern routers support both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. Interference or congestion may force your device to lose connection. Try switching your Wi-Fi to another band:
- Connect to your router’s 5 GHz network if available; it’s typically faster and less crowded.
- Alternatively, switch to 2.4 GHz if you’re farther from the router, as it has better range.
8. Diagnose the Network Using Windows Troubleshooter
Built-in tools in Windows 11 can sometimes identify and fix network problems automatically:
- Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot.
- Click on Other troubleshooters.
- Run the Internet Connections troubleshooter.
Follow the on-screen suggestions and apply any recommended fixes.
When to Seek Professional Help
If none of the above methods work and your Wi-Fi continues to disconnect, the issue might be hardware-related. This could be due to a failing network adapter or issues with your router. Consider contacting your device manufacturer or local IT support for further troubleshooting.
Staying updated with drivers and system updates and optimizing your settings are usually enough to resolve most Wi-Fi problems on Windows 11. However, each system is unique, and what works for one user might not work for another. Be patient and methodical during troubleshooting to find the right solution for your situation.