The network adapter driver is a critical component that ensures your Windows 10 computer can connect to the internet properly.
If the driver is faulty or corrupted, it may lead to issues such as no internet connection, slow speeds, or even failure to detect network hardware.
This guide explains how to reinstall network adapter drivers on Windows 10 to help restore your internet connection.
1. Why Reinstall the Network Adapter Driver?
You may need to reinstall the network driver if you encounter the following issues:
Sudden or unstable internet disconnection
A yellow exclamation mark or error code appears next to the network adapter in Device Manager
Network issues after a system update
Corrupted or incompatible driver
Inability to connect to Wi-Fi or Ethernet
Reinstalling the driver can fix file corruption, resolve version conflicts, and restore the adapter's normal function.
2. Methods to Reinstall the Network Adapter Driver
Method 1: Use a Driver Management Tool
If you're not familiar with manual driver installation, using a tool like Driver Talent X is recommended. It can automatically detect, download, and install the most compatible drivers for your device, making the process easy and efficient.
Click the Download button to get the latest version of Driver Talent X. Install and launch the software.
In the "Drivers" section, select "Scan" to check the status of all drivers on your PC.
Locate the network adapter driver in the results and click the "Upgrade" button.
Restart your computer to apply the updated driver.
Method 2: Uninstall the Driver via Device Manager
Press Win + X and select "Device Manager".
Expand the "Network adapters" section and find your Wi-Fi or Ethernet device.
Right-click the adapter and choose "Uninstall device".
In the confirmation window, check "Delete the driver software for this device" (if available), then click "Uninstall".
Restart your computer. Windows will attempt to automatically detect the hardware and reinstall the driver.
Reopen Device Manager to check if the adapter is back without errors.
Test your network connection to confirm everything is working.
Method 3: Download and Install from the Official Website
Visit your PC or motherboard manufacturer's official website.
Locate the driver download page for your device model.
Download the latest network adapter driver compatible with Windows 10.
Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
Restart your computer and test your internet connection.
3. Troubleshooting After Reinstalling the Driver
The network adapter still doesn't work:
Check if necessary services (e.g., WLAN AutoConfig) are running.
Go to "Settings" > "Network & Internet" > "Network Reset" to reset network settings.
Check hardware connections or try replacing the network card.
Driver installation failed or no driver found:
Ensure the driver matches your Windows version (e.g., 64-bit vs. 32-bit).
Try installing the driver in compatibility mode.
Contact the manufacturer's customer support for assistance.
Reinstalling the network adapter driver is a common and effective way to resolve internet issues on Windows 10. To maintain a stable network connection, it's recommended to update your drivers regularly and ensure compatibility.
If the problem persists after trying these methods, you may need to check for hardware faults or seek help from a professional technician.
