How to Install Update and Fix Network Drivers on Windows 10

Learn step-by-step methods to install, update, and troubleshoot network drivers on Windows 10. Fix connectivity issues, resolve driver errors, and optimize your network performance using Device Manager, manufacturer tools, or Windows Update.

How to Install, Update, and Fix Network Drivers on Windows 10

A stable network connection is vital for productivity, communication, and accessing online resources. However, network issues on Windows 10 often stem from outdated, corrupted, or missing drivers. Network drivers act as a bridge between your operating system and hardware components like Wi-Fi adapters or Ethernet ports. When these drivers malfunction, you may experience slow speeds, intermittent disconnections, or a complete loss of connectivity. This guide explains why network driver issues occur and provides actionable steps to resolve them.

1. Common Causes of Network Driver Issues

Understanding the root cause of network driver problems helps prevent future issues. Here are the most frequent culprits:

• Outdated Drivers: Windows updates or hardware changes may render existing drivers incompatible. Manufacturers regularly release driver updates to fix bugs or improve compatibility, but users often delay installing them.
• Corrupted Driver Files: Sudden system crashes, malware, or improper driver installations can corrupt driver files, leading to erratic network behavior.
• Incorrect Driver Installation: Installing a driver meant for a different hardware model or OS version can cause conflicts and connectivity failures.
• Hardware Conflicts: New hardware installations or BIOS updates might disrupt communication between the OS and network adapters.
• Windows Update Glitches: While Windows automatically updates drivers, occasional errors during the process can break network functionality.
• Malware or Viruses: Malicious software may tamper with system files, including drivers, to disrupt network access.

Identifying the cause is the first step toward resolving the issue. Below is a step-by-step guide to repairing or updating network drivers on Windows 10.

2. Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Network Driver Issues Method 1: Update Drivers via Device Manager

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the Network adapters section.
3. Right-click your network device (e.g., Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201) and select Update driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
5. Follow on-screen prompts to install any available updates.

Method 2: Manually Install Drivers from Manufacturer’s Website

1. Identify your network adapter model:
   1. Open Device Manager > Network adapters > Note the exact name.
   2. Alternatively, check your PC or motherboard’s documentation.
2. Visit the manufacturer’s website (e.g., Intel, Realtek, or your PC brand’s support page).
3. Download the latest driver compatible with Windows 10 and your hardware.
4. Run the installer and follow the setup instructions.

Method 3: Roll Back to a Previous Driver Version

1. Open Device Manager and right-click your network adapter.
2. Select Properties > Driver tab > Roll Back Driver.
3. Provide a reason (optional) and confirm.

Method 4: Use Windows Update for Driver Downloads

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. Click View optional updates (if available).
3. Expand Driver updates and select the network driver.
4. Click Download and install.

Method 5: Run the Network Troubleshooter

1. Open Settings > Network & Internet > Status.
2. Click Network Troubleshooter and follow the automated diagnostics.

Method 6: Uninstall and Reinstall the Driver

1. In Device Manager, right-click the network adapter and select Uninstall device.
2. Check Delete the driver software for this device (if available) and confirm.
3. Restart your PC. Windows will reinstall the driver automatically.

Method 7: Check for Hardware Issues

• For wired connections: Test with a different Ethernet cable or port.
• For Wi-Fi: Ensure the adapter is enabled (check for physical switches on laptops).
• If using a USB adapter, try a different USB port.

Method 8: Use Third-Party Driver Updater Tools (Advanced)

• Tools like Driver Booster or Snappy Driver Installer can automate driver updates. However, download these only from trusted sources to avoid malware.

3. Conclusion

Network driver issues on Windows 10 can disrupt your workflow, but they’re rarely permanent. Most problems arise from outdated or corrupted drivers, which are straightforward to fix using built-in tools like Device Manager or Windows Update. Always prioritize manual driver downloads from official manufacturer websites to ensure compatibility and security.

If standard fixes fail, consider hardware diagnostics or consulting a professional to rule out physical damage. By keeping your drivers updated and following systematic troubleshooting, you’ll maintain a stable and reliable network connection.

Regular maintenance, such as enabling automatic Windows updates and periodically checking driver versions, can prevent future issues. Remember, a proactive approach saves time and frustration in the long run.

2025-05-26 / Michael Anderson