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Wi-Fi or Bluetooth option missing on my laptop

If the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth buttons have vanished from the taskbar, Windows may have switched them off, or the hardware has stopped being detected. Start with the simple settings.

Quick fixes to try first

  • Check Airplane mode is off. Click the network icon in the bottom right and look at the quick settings.
  • Look for a key on the top row with an aeroplane or aerial symbol. Press it, or hold Fn and press it.
  • Restart the laptop fully.
  • Move closer to your router and check other devices can connect.

Step by step

  1. Open Settings by pressing the Windows key and I.
  2. Windows 11: choose Network & internet and check Wi-Fi is on. For Bluetooth, choose Bluetooth & devices and check the switch is on. Windows 10: choose Network & Internet for Wi-Fi, or Devices for Bluetooth.
  3. Run the troubleshooter. In Windows 11, open System, then Troubleshoot, then Other troubleshooters and run Network and Internet or Bluetooth. In Windows 10, look under Update & Security, then Troubleshoot. Wording may differ slightly.
  4. Open Windows Update and install anything waiting, including any optional driver updates listed under advanced options. Restart afterwards.

If that did not work

As a last resort for Wi-Fi only, you can use Network reset. Windows 11: Settings, Network & internet, Advanced network settings, Network reset. Windows 10: Settings, Network & Internet, Status, Network reset.

Be aware this removes saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords, so make sure you know your Wi-Fi password first. It will restart your laptop.

Please do not download driver programs from unfamiliar sites, and do not change anything in the BIOS.

When to get more help

Stop and email us if the option has gone completely, Wi-Fi works on other devices but never on this laptop, or the problem began after a drop or spill. The wireless part may need replacing. Tell us the make and model and whether you can connect with a cable.

Did this help? If you are still stuck, email Vision Tech and tell us what you can see on the screen. Menus and button names can differ slightly between versions and makes. If something does not match, stop and ask rather than guess.

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