Intermittent Wi-Fi Disconnections Have Specific Causes
A Wi-Fi connection that keeps dropping is not random — there is always a reason. The challenge is narrowing down whether the problem is your router, your computer, the Wi-Fi adapter, or the settings. Here is a systematic approach.
Step 1: Establish Whether It Is Your Computer or Your Router
Connect another device (phone or tablet) to the same Wi-Fi network. If that device also drops out, the problem is your router or internet service — not your computer. Restart your router and contact your ISP if the problem persists.
If other devices stay connected but your computer keeps dropping out, continue with the steps below.
Step 2: Update Your Wi-Fi Adapter Drivers
Outdated wireless drivers are the most common cause of persistent drop-outs on Windows. Go to **Device Manager → Network Adapters**, right-click your Wi-Fi adapter, and select **Update driver → Search automatically**. If Windows finds an update, install it and restart.
If your computer's manufacturer has a support website, download the latest Wi-Fi driver directly from there for the most reliable result.
Step 3: Disable Power Saving on the Wi-Fi Adapter
Windows may be putting your Wi-Fi adapter to sleep to save power. Go to **Device Manager → Network Adapters**, right-click your Wi-Fi adapter → **Properties → Power Management** tab → uncheck **Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power**.
Also go to **Control Panel → Power Options → Change plan settings → Change advanced power settings → Wireless Adapter Settings → Power Saving Mode** and set it to **Maximum Performance**.
Step 4: Adjust Network Adapter Settings
In your Wi-Fi adapter Properties, go to the **Advanced** tab. Look for settings like **Roaming Aggressiveness** (set to Low or Medium), **802.11 Band** (try forcing 5GHz or 2.4GHz), and **Transmit Power** (set to Highest). The exact options vary by adapter.
Step 5: Forget and Reconnect to the Network
Go to **Settings → Network and Internet → Wi-Fi → Manage known networks**, delete your network, and reconnect from scratch by entering the password fresh.
Step 6: Check for Signal Interference
Other devices on the 2.4GHz band — cordless phones, microwaves, baby monitors, neighbouring Wi-Fi networks — can cause interference. Try:
Step 7: Reset Network Settings
Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run: **netsh winsock reset**, then **netsh int ip reset**, then restart.
Still Dropping Out?
If none of these steps resolve the issue, you may have a faulty Wi-Fi card, a driver conflict, or a hardware problem requiring professional diagnosis.
Midland Computers provides expert [networking and internet troubleshooting in Midland](/services/networking-issues) for homes and businesses. We resolve persistent Wi-Fi issues every day and are known for our thorough diagnostics and clear explanations.
[Book a networking appointment](/book-repair) or [contact us](/contact) — we will get you connected reliably.