Windows 11 Wi-Fi option is missing

Where this problem appears

Windows 11 laptops and desktops with an internal or USB wireless adapter.

Symptoms to confirm

• Quick Settings shows Bluetooth but no Wi-Fi button.
• No wireless networks appear.
• Device Manager shows a disabled adapter, warning icon or no adapter entry.

Likely causes

• The wireless adapter is disabled by a hardware key, BIOS setting or Windows.
• The WLAN AutoConfig service is stopped.
• A driver update failed or the adapter driver is missing.
• The USB or internal adapter is not being detected.

Work in order

Step-by-step fix

1. 1

   Restart the computer and confirm airplane mode is off.

2. 2

   Check the laptop's wireless function key or physical switch.

3. 3

   Open Device Manager, expand Network adapters and enable the wireless device if it is disabled.

4. 4

   Open Services, find WLAN AutoConfig, set it to Automatic and start it if stopped.

5. 5

   Install the wireless driver from the computer or adapter manufacturer's support page.

6. 6

   Use Network reset only after recording VPN, static IP and custom adapter settings.

7. 7

   If the adapter never appears in Device Manager, test a known-good USB Wi-Fi adapter or arrange hardware service.

If the main path does not work

• Use Ethernet or phone USB tethering temporarily to download the correct driver.
• Check the BIOS or UEFI wireless setting if the adapter disappeared after a firmware change.

How to reduce repeat failures

Keep a copy of the manufacturer Wi-Fi driver and create a restore point before major driver updates.

Common questions