WiFi Frequently Disconnects on Windows 10? Here’s How to Fix It
A stable WiFi connection is essential for productivity, entertainment, and communication. However, if your WiFi keeps disconnecting on Windows 10, it can be frustrating and disruptive. This issue can be caused by outdated drivers, power management settings, interference, or router problems. Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting steps to resolve this issue and restore a stable connection.
COMMON CAUSES OF WIFI DISCONNECTION IN WINDOWS 10
Before diving into the solutions, it’s important to understand the possible reasons behind frequent WiFi disconnections:
- Outdated or Corrupt Network Drivers – Incompatible or outdated drivers can cause instability.
- Power Management Settings – Windows may turn off the WiFi adapter to save power.
- Router Issues – Network congestion or outdated firmware can affect connectivity.
- Interference – Other wireless devices, walls, or furniture may disrupt the signal.
- Incorrect Network Settings – Misconfigured settings can prevent a stable connection.
- Windows Updates – Some updates may introduce bugs affecting the WiFi connection.
HOW TO FIX WIFI DISCONNECTING ON WINDOWS 10
Follow these step-by-step solutions to troubleshoot and fix the issue.
1. RESTART YOUR COMPUTER AND ROUTER
A simple restart can fix many connectivity issues.
Steps to Restart Your Computer:
- Click the Start Menu.
- Select Power > Restart.
Steps to Restart Your Router:
- Turn off the router and unplug it.
- Wait for 30 seconds and plug it back in.
- Turn on the router and check the connection.
2. UPDATE NETWORK DRIVERS
Outdated or corrupt network drivers can cause frequent disconnections.
Steps to Update Network Drivers:
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand Network adapters.
- Right-click your WiFi adapter and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Restart your computer after updating.
3. DISABLE POWER SAVING FOR WIFI ADAPTER
Windows may turn off the WiFi adapter to save power, causing disconnections.
Steps to Disable Power Saving:
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand Network adapters and right-click your WiFi adapter.
- Select Properties > Power Management.
- Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.
- Click OK and restart your PC.
4. RESET NETWORK SETTINGS
Resetting network settings can resolve misconfigurations causing WiFi issues.
Steps to Reset Network Settings:
- Open Settings (
Windows + I
). - Click Network & Internet > Status.
- Scroll down and select Network reset.
- Click Reset now and restart your computer.
5. CHANGE WIFI NETWORK PROPERTIES
Ensuring your WiFi is set to Private instead of Public may improve stability.
Steps to Change WiFi Network to Private:
- Open Settings (
Windows + I
). - Click Network & Internet > WiFi.
- Click on your connected WiFi network.
- Under Network profile, select Private.
6. FLUSH DNS AND RESET TCP/IP SETTINGS
Resetting network configurations can resolve WiFi disconnections.
Steps to Flush DNS and Reset TCP/IP:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type the following commands and press Enter after each:
ipconfig /flushdns netsh winsock reset netsh int ip reset
- Restart your PC and check the connection.
7. DISABLE WIFI SENSE
WiFi Sense can sometimes interfere with network connections.
Steps to Disable WiFi Sense:
- Open Settings (
Windows + I
). - Click Network & Internet > WiFi.
- Scroll down to Manage Wi-Fi settings.
- Turn off Connect to suggested open hotspots and Connect to networks shared by my contacts.
8. CHANGE WIFI CHANNEL ON YOUR ROUTER
If multiple devices in your area are using the same WiFi channel, interference can occur.
Steps to Change WiFi Channel:
- Log into your router’s web interface (usually
192.168.1.1
or192.168.0.1
). - Enter your admin credentials.
- Navigate to the Wireless Settings section.
- Change the WiFi Channel to a less crowded one (e.g., 1, 6, or 11).
- Save changes and restart the router.
9. DISABLE FAST STARTUP
Fast Startup can cause network-related issues after a reboot.
Steps to Disable Fast Startup:
- Press Windows + R, type
powercfg.cpl
, and press Enter. - Click Choose what the power buttons do.
- Click Change settings that are currently unavailable.
- Uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended).
- Click Save changes and restart your PC.
10. UPDATE ROUTER FIRMWARE
An outdated router firmware can cause instability.
Steps to Update Router Firmware:
- Check your router’s brand and model.
- Visit the manufacturer’s official website.
- Download the latest firmware for your router model.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to update the firmware.
- Restart the router and check the WiFi connection.
FINAL THOUGHTS
If your WiFi keeps disconnecting on Windows 10, the issue can often be resolved with simple fixes like updating drivers, resetting network settings, or adjusting power options. If none of these methods work, consider using an Ethernet connection or contacting your ISP for further assistance. By following these steps, you should be able to restore a stable and uninterrupted WiFi connection.