I received a used Samsung Notebook 7 Spin (model NP740U3L) and performed a factory reset to remove the previous owner's files. Since then, the laptop no longer displays the nearby Wi‑Fi networks, even after updating Windows and trying several troubleshooting steps. It can detect my phone's hotspot and one hidden network, but not the other networks around me. My router uses Wi‑Fi 6, so I'm wondering whether the laptop's wireless adapter supports it or needs a specific driver or setting.
3 Answers
First check Device Manager for the exact wireless adapter model and any warning icons. Download the matching Wi‑Fi driver from Samsung’s support page or the adapter manufacturer rather than relying only on Windows Update. Since the laptop can see a hotspot, the adapter is probably working, but its driver or supported bands may be limited.
The built-in wireless card may not support Wi‑Fi 6, also called 802.11ax. Many older adapters support Wi‑Fi 4 or Wi‑Fi 5 but cannot detect a router broadcasting only ax networks. In the router settings, enable compatibility mode and broadcast a separate 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz network using 802.11n/ac support. Updating the laptop’s wireless driver may also add better compatibility.
That seems to be the issue: the router is running Wi‑Fi 6, and the laptop doesn’t appear to detect it. I’m looking for the setting that will let it connect.
If you can’t change the router settings, a small USB Wi‑Fi adapter that supports Wi‑Fi 6 can provide a newer wireless connection. Otherwise, ask whoever manages the router to enable a legacy-compatible SSID or mixed 802.11n/ac/ax mode. A wired adapter is another option if the laptop lacks a built-in Ethernet port.
I checked the network adapters and didn’t see an obvious error. It can see my phone’s hotspot and a hidden network, but still misses most nearby networks.