Why can’t this Windows 10 PC connect to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth?
Asked by
MellowCedar42
I was given an older Windows 10 PC, but I can't connect it to any network. It doesn't detect Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, and the troubleshooter only tells me to connect an Ethernet cable. I downloaded and installed the network driver using another device and a USB drive, but nothing changed. How can I tell whether the PC actually has wireless hardware, and what are my options for getting it online?
Answers
You can add wireless support with a USB Wi-Fi/Bluetooth adapter, or install a PCIe Wi-Fi card if the computer has an available slot. A USB adapter is usually the simplest option. If the PC has Wi-Fi hardware but it’s disabled, enable the adapter through Control Panel’s Network Connections settings.
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Many older desktop PCs don’t include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth hardware, especially office models. Check whether there’s a wireless adapter listed in Device Manager or Network Connections. If there isn’t one, the PC probably only supports wired Ethernet by default.
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As a temporary workaround, try USB tethering from your phone. Android phones generally support sharing their mobile data over a USB cable, and many newer iPhones can do it as well. Otherwise, connecting the PC directly to the router with Ethernet should work if the wired network adapter is functioning.
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