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Forum Discussion
Windows PCs do not see WiFi Network
I recently installed a new WiFi network. Apple phones, Mac PCs, Samsung Android phones all can see and access the network (some at 802.11ax, others at 802.11ac). Unfortunately, none of my Windows P...
Not really an OS question - much more one could guess your Windows PC carry older drivers for some popular hardware (like Intel wireless adapters for example) which isn't able to even recognize, see, or access WiFi 6 802.11ax access points. both the adapter microcode as well as the driver might require an update before you succeed.
A good point to start is the Intel Driver and Support Assistant https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/support/intel-driver-support-assistant.html ... in case we talk of Inhell adapters for example.
My understanding is that 802.11ax is backward compatible: I don't need the Windows PCs to be able to use the 6 GHz spectrum, just either the 2.4 GHz and/or 5 GHz frequencies. It would appear I am missing something.
Scratch this dream for "compatibility". Plenty of Wi-Fi adapters - many Intel ones - especially those with PC-brand driver installations or Windows Update supplied hopelessly outdated drivers don't work at all on 802.11ax. Of course, correct working adapters and systems with drivers make it compatible.
This is one of the most popular question or complaint since Wi-Fi6 was introduced. And it never stops - because many users and even pro computer admins operate systems on outdated drivers.
and no: It's not limited to Windows of course, too.
Well, what I don't understand is that WiFi 6 (aka 802.11ax) is supposed to support WiFi 5 (802.11ac/b/g/n): I don't need my Windows PC to connect using WiFi 6, just one of the legacy supposedly available older versions. If I am unable to connect to 802.11ac/b/g/n, then WiFi 6 is not backward compatible at all and is a waste of time and effort unless I upgrade all my Windows PCs (all are currently Windows 10).
If these PCs affected are built with or updated with Intel WiFi adapters (most generations from the last few years), these wont recognize any Wi-Fi 6 APs - even if these are Wi-Fi 4 or 5 802.11ac/b/g/n clients. Blame your PC/Windows OEM for not including fully compatible Intel Wi-Fi adapter drivers in their update selections in the update library, in the Windows update selection, and last but not least your Windows admins for not keeping the Windows system network adapters for ignoring update requirements.
These driver kits include embedded firmware for the processors integrated on the Intel Wi-Fi adapters. Without, they won't recognize any Wi-Fi 6 access point or wireless router.
Look, you don't talk to ignorant newbies here - these issues exist since the first days of Wi-Fi 6 APs/routers are on the market.. Even if you insist it's supposed to be compatible - either believe the elderly experienced network admins and community members here, or go and complain to your Windows PC OEM, or the Netgear support - both a waste of time and effort in my opinion. They will repeat you need to do your homework...
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