Updating network drivers on Windows 11 is one of those chores that sounds straightforward but can get weird real quick if the drivers are finicky or Windows decides to block updates. If you’ve been noticing slow internet, dropped Wi-Fi connections, or just overall network instability, it’s worth poking around and updating those drivers. Sometimes Windows Update just doesn’t cut it, and going straight to Device Manager lets you get more control over what’s going on. Because of course, Windows has to make it harder than necessary, and sometimes, you need to manually grab drivers from the manufacturer’s site or even use a driver updater tool if you’re feeling lazy. This guide aims to walk through the usual route—where the problems tend to hide, and what else you can try if it’s stubborn.
How to Update Network Drivers on Windows 11
Find Device Manager
This is step one—typing “Device Manager” into the Start menu search. It’s the portal to all things hardware. Once you open it, you’ll see folders for all your hardware components, including network adapters. This is the spot to check if your network drivers need a boost or a complete overhaul. Sometimes Windows automatically updates drivers during routine updates, but if you’re hitting a wall or suspect your driver is outdated, this manual route is the way to go.
Locate and Expand Network Adapters
Scroll down to find the “Network adapters” section. Click the arrow to expand. You’re now staring at all the network cards installed—Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or any virtual adapters. Not sure which one is which? Usually, the name hints at the manufacturer or type (Intel, Realtek, Broadcom).This is where most issues crop up—drivers outdated, corrupt, or incompatible. Right-clicking on the adapter gives you access to update options. Because sometimes, Windows doesn’t find the latest drivers on its own, so getting into the manufacturer’s site directly can save your day.
Right-click and select Update Driver
This menu pops up when you right-click your network device. Choosing “Update driver” opens a small window with options. Sometimes, you’ll see “Search automatically for updated driver software, ” which is the default. That’s fine if your drivers are relatively fresh, but if you’ve noticed recent issues, it’s better to head straight to the manufacturer’s site or install a fresh driver manually.
Pick Your Update Method: Search or Manual
- Search automatically for updated driver software: This lets Windows look for the latest driver online. It’s a quick fix, but sometimes it’s not the latest version if your device’s manufacturer hasn’t uploaded a new driver to Windows Update.
- Browse my computer for driver software: If you’ve already downloaded a driver package from the manufacturer’s website, select this, then navigate to where you saved it. This method often works better if you’re trying to fix compatibility issues or want to install a specific version.
If you’re downloading drivers manually, head over to the hardware manufacturer’s site (Intel, Realtek, etc.), find the support or drivers page, and download the latest version compatible with your device and Windows 11. Don’t forget to check the hardware model first, so you don’t accidentally grab the wrong driver. Once downloaded, run the installer or point Device Manager to the unzipped driver files if needed. Meantime, a restart after the update can be a good idea to shake things up and make sure all new files are loaded properly.
Follow On-screen Prompts and Restart
Most driver updates will be fairly straightforward—click next, accept defaults, and wait. Sometimes Windows might ask for permission or to reboot afterward. On some setups, the driver update might cause an initial hiccup—disconnects, or Wi-Fi not showing up. If that happens, don’t panic; just reboot, and if nothing changes, consider rolling back the driver to a previous version (via the same right-click menu).That’s handy if the new driver causes problems instead of fixing them.
Tips for Updating Network Drivers on Windows 11
- Backup your current drivers: Not a bad idea—because if the update turns your network into a brick, rolling back quickly is a lifesaver. To do this, you can use the backup driver feature or third-party app.
- Always check the manufacturer’s site: Especially for NICs (Network Interface Cards).Sometimes, Windows Update isn’t the best with the latest drivers, and grabbing directly from Dell, Lenovo, Intel, or Realtek can fix the weirdest issues.
- Use third-party driver tools sparingly: Apps like Driver Booster can be convenient, but they’re not foolproof. Use with caution—sometimes they install incompatible drivers or bloatware. Better to stick to official sources if possible.
- Reboot after driver installs: Yeah, you probably heard this a million times, but Windows loves to play with memory and hardware states, so a reboot often fixes lingering quirks.
- Keep Windows itself updated: System updates include driver fixes and compatibility improvements, so don’t skip updates for your OS either.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the point of updating network drivers?
Basically, it keeps your network hardware compatible with Windows, improves stability, fixes bugs, and sometimes even speeds things up. If your Wi-Fi keeps disconnecting or your Ethernet is flaky, a driver update might be the fix.
How often should drivers be updated?
Depends. If things are working fine, maybe check every couple of months, or when you notice network hiccups. Not every Windows update will include driver updates, so don’t get hung up on frequent checks unless needed.
Third-party software worth it?
For the most part, if it’s reputable and from a well-known publisher, it can save time. But be cautious; some tools push bloatware or unstable drivers. Stick to official sources whenever you can.
What if the update causes trouble?
If your network suddenly acts worse, you can roll back drivers by going back into Device Manager, right-clicking the device, and selecting Properties. Under the Driver tab, click Roll Back Driver. Sometimes, just uninstalling the driver and reinstalling from scratch helps. Or, downloading an earlier version from the manufacturer’s site can fix things too.
Summary
- Open Device Manager
- Find Network Adapters
- Right-click your network device
- Select Update driver
- Pick search or manual install, then follow prompts
Wrap-up
Anyway, updating network drivers isn’t rocket science, but it does sometimes feel like semi-arcane wizardry, especially if things go sideways. The key is mostly patience, making sure you grab drivers from reliable sources, and rebooting afterward. If things still stay wonky, rolling back or checking your network settings might help. Hopefully, this shaves off a few hours for someone, and your internet stays rock-solid from here on out.