Computer keeps forgetting wifi exists (lenovo laptop, windows 11)

Troubleshooting Wi-Fi Connectivity Issues on Your Lenovo Laptop Running Windows 11

Experiencing persistent Wi-Fi connectivity problems can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you rely heavily on a stable internet connection for work and studies. If you’re using a Lenovo laptop with Windows 11 and facing issues where your device frequently forgets the Wi-Fi network or refuses to reconnect, this guide offers some practical troubleshooting steps to help resolve these problems.

Understanding the Problem

Common Symptoms:
– Wi-Fi network disappears from the connection menu unexpectedly.
– The Wi-Fi icon shows as disconnected or is missing entirely from the taskbar.
– Turning the Wi-Fi off and on via the toggle does not restore connectivity.
– Requiring frequent restarts to regain internet access, disrupting workflow and risking data loss.

Additional Minor Issues:
– Intermittent touchscreen responsiveness.
– Keys randomly stopping to work on the keyboard.

While these peripheral issues may seem unrelated, they could collectively point toward underlying driver or hardware stability problems. Addressing the Wi-Fi issue first is advisable, as it directly impacts your daily productivity and academic responsibilities.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

1. Update Network Drivers
   Outdated or corrupt drivers are a common cause of Wi-Fi connectivity issues.
2. Press Windows + X and select ‘Device Manager.’
3. Expand ‘Network Adapters.’
4. Right-click your Wi-Fi driver (e.g., Intel Wireless-AC or similar) and choose ‘Update driver.’
5. Select ‘Search automatically for updated driver software.’

6. Restart your laptop after updates are installed.

7. Reset Network Settings
   Resetting network configurations can resolve corruption or misconfigurations.

8. Navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > Status.
9. Scroll down and click on ‘Network reset.’

10. Confirm and restart your device.
    Note: This action removes all saved networks and VPN settings, so be prepared to reconnect manually.

11. Run Built-in Troubleshooters
    Windows 11 includes troubleshooters that automatically detect and fix network issues.

12. Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
13. Run the ‘Network Adapter’ and ‘Internet Connections’ troubleshooters.

14. Follow on-screen instructions.

15. Disable and Re-enable the Network Adapter
    Sometimes, toggling the network adapter can resolve transient glitches.

16. Open Device Manager > Network Adapters.
17. Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter and select ‘Disable device.’

18. Wait a few seconds, then right-click again and choose ‘Enable device.’

19. Check Power Management Settings
    Power-saving features can disable