A missing network adapter can be caused by a number of different issues and solving them is usually quite easy. One of the most common and easiest solutions to this problem is to update or install drivers for your network card; this is usually done when installing hardware or an operating system (OS), but errors can occur. Sometimes the problem may be with the computer’s operating system and something is not installing correctly or it may get corrupted after installation. You can run a repair install which usually fixes this problem, but you will probably need a full installation disc and not just a recovery disc. A missing network adapter can be a bigger problem and may require a full installation of the operating system to fix the error.
A network adapter.
One of the first steps you should take when dealing with a missing network adapter is to check your computer’s hardware device properties or settings. How you access this information depends on your operating system, but can usually be found through your control panel or by going to your computer’s properties. After examining the hardware properties, you should look for any device with a label or icon next to it to indicate a problem. If you cannot see your network driver and your network adapter cannot be found even on this screen, you may need to try reinstalling the device or replacing it.
A missing network adapter is usually due to a lack of proper drivers to allow your operating system to recognize the network card or device correctly. Many devices come with a driver disk that you can install on your computer to correct the error. If you don’t have this disk, you may need to download drivers from the manufacturer’s website. Install these drivers and the network adapter will usually be found and working properly.
The issue that is causing the network adapter to be missing could also be a bug with your operating system and you may need to fix this issue before the drivers can be recognized properly. If you have an installation disc for your operating system, try running a repair installation to replace any missing or corrupt files. This will solve many problems, although you may need to back up the data on your computer, completely wipe the hard drive, and install a fresh copy of the operating system. If these steps do not find your network adapter, the device itself may not be working properly and you may need to replace it.
