My Wi‑Fi was connecting but not actually providing internet, so I followed a tutorial and uninstalled my Netgear wireless adapter. I also removed the driver and unplugged the adapter while resetting the computer. Now I'm trying to reinstall it, but Windows doesn't seem to recognize that the adapter has been connected again. What steps can I take to get it working?
3 Answers
After reconnecting the adapter, restart the computer and check Device Manager again. If it still doesn’t appear, try another USB port and make sure it’s connected directly to the computer.
It may not be permanently deleted—Windows probably just no longer has the driver. Open Device Manager, choose View > Show hidden devices, then select Action > Scan for hardware changes. Check Other devices for an unknown device with a yellow warning icon. If it’s a USB adapter, plug it directly into a rear USB port instead of a hub or front-panel port. You can temporarily connect your phone by USB and enable USB tethering, then use Windows Update or download the correct driver from Netgear using the adapter’s exact model number.
The exact adapter model and your Windows version would help identify the right driver. Once you know the model, download its Windows driver from the manufacturer’s support page and install it manually. Restart the computer afterward.
I found it under the section you mentioned, and I’m using my phone’s USB hotspot now so I can install the driver.