How To Update Wi-Fi Drivers

How to Update Wi-Fi Drivers on Windows and Mac

If your internet keeps dropping, your laptop cannot detect networks, or browsing feels unusually slow, outdated Wi-Fi drivers could be the culprit. Many users don’t realize that keeping network drivers updated is as important as updating software. This guide will explain how to update Wi-Fi drivers on both Windows and Mac, ensuring faster speeds, fewer errors, and stable connectivity.

Whether you are a casual user or rely on a stable connection for work, these steps will help you troubleshoot effectively.

Why Updating Wi-Fi Drivers Matters

Drivers act as a bridge between your computer’s hardware and operating system. Outdated Wi-Fi drivers can cause:

• Frequent disconnections
• Slow internet speeds
• Inability to detect Wi-Fi networks
• Compatibility issues with routers and operating system updates

Updating ensures your system communicates properly with your network hardware, giving you the best performance.

How to Update Wi-Fi Drivers on Windows

Windows PCs depend heavily on up-to-date drivers for smooth performance. Here are the methods to keep your Wi-Fi drivers updated.

Update via Device Manager

Device Manager is the simplest built-in tool to manage hardware drivers.

Steps:

• Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
• Expand Network adapters.
• Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter and select Update driver.
• Choose Search automatically for drivers.
• Follow on-screen instructions.

This option lets Windows search for the latest driver online.

Download Drivers from Manufacturer’s Website

If Windows cannot find updates, go directly to your laptop or Wi-Fi card manufacturer.

Steps:

• Identify your Wi-Fi adapter model (found under Device Manager > Properties).
• Visit the official website (Dell, HP, Lenovo, Intel, etc.).
• Download the latest driver compatible with your Windows version.
• Run the installer and restart your system.

Use Windows Update

Sometimes, Microsoft includes driver updates in Windows Update.

Steps:

• Go to Settings > Update & Security.
• Click Check for updates.
• Install any pending updates, including optional ones under View optional updates.

This ensures system-wide updates, including Wi-Fi drivers.

Install Drivers Manually

For advanced users, manual installation may be needed.

Steps:

• Download the driver file in .zip or .exe format from the official site.
• Extract the files (if zipped).
• Go to Device Manager, right-click Wi-Fi adapter, and choose Update driver.
• Select Browse my computer for drivers.
• Locate the folder and finish installation.

How to Update Wi-Fi Drivers on Mac

Unlike Windows, macOS handles most driver updates automatically. However, there are a few ways to ensure your Wi-Fi drivers are current.

Update macOS

Apple bundles driver updates within system updates.

Steps:

• Click the Apple menu.
• Go to System Preferences > Software Update.
• If an update is available, click Update Now.

This ensures both system patches and Wi-Fi drivers are updated.

Reset Network Settings

If updating macOS doesn’t help, resetting network settings can refresh Wi-Fi drivers.

Steps:

• Go to System Preferences > Network.
• Select Wi-Fi from the left panel.
• Click the minus (-) button to remove it.
• Add it back with the plus (+) button.

Reinstall macOS (Last Resort)

In rare cases, corrupted system files affect Wi-Fi drivers. Reinstalling macOS restores default drivers without deleting personal files.

Steps:

• Restart your Mac while holding Command + R.
• Select Reinstall macOS from Recovery Mode.
• Follow the prompts.

Common Issues After Updating Wi-Fi Drivers

Even after updates, some users experience issues. Here’s how to fix them:

• Wi-Fi not connecting: Restart your router and device.
• Driver failed to install: Download the correct version (32-bit vs. 64-bit).
• Frequent drops: Roll back the driver via Device Manager.
• Slow speed persists: Test your internet with Dhanote Internet Services for reliable performance.

FAQs

How do I check if my Wi-Fi driver is up to date?

On Windows, open Device Manager > Network adapters, right-click Wi-Fi adapter, and check Properties > Driver. On Mac, updating macOS ensures the latest drivers.

Can I update Wi-Fi drivers without internet?

Yes. You can download drivers on another device, transfer via USB, and install manually.

Do outdated Wi-Fi drivers affect speed?

Yes. Old drivers may not support new router features, reducing speed and stability.

Is it safe to use third-party driver update tools?

It’s safer to update drivers manually or via Windows/macOS. Third-party tools can sometimes install incorrect drivers.

What happens if I uninstall my Wi-Fi driver?

Your computer may lose internet access until the driver is reinstalled. Windows usually reinstalls it automatically upon reboot.

Knowing how to update Wi-Fi drivers on Windows and Mac can save you from frustrating connectivity issues. Regular updates ensure faster speeds, smoother browsing, and fewer interruptions.