How to Fix Wi-Fi Stops Working on Windows When an External Monitor Is Connected

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Basic Fixes:

Fix 1: Run the Network and Internet Troubleshooter

If your Wi-Fi drops or breaks when an external screen is connected, several network problems may be responsible. Windows comes with a Network and Internet troubleshooter that scans the computer for network problems and fixes them or gives suggestions to help you fix them. You should run this troubleshooter using the steps below.

Step 1:Press theWindows + Ikeyboard shortcut to open theSettings app. Next, selectSystemfrom the left sidebar and chooseTroubleshootfrom the right pane.

Step 2:SelectOther troubleshooters.

Step 3:Click theRunbutton for the ‘Network and Internet‘ troubleshooter.

Step 4:Follow any recommendations to complete the process.

Fix 2: Update Network Adapter and Display Adapter Drivers

Drivers serve as an important link between hardware and software. Outdated drivers may trigger compatibility issues between your computer and the network adapter. These issues may disrupt the Wi-Fi connection when you connect a second monitor. You will need to update your network adapters and display drivers using the steps below to get the latest bug fixes for known issues.

Step 1:Right-clickon theStart menuon the Taskbar and selectDevice Manager.

Step 2:Expand theNetwork adapterscategory,right-click on your Wi-Fi driver, and selectUpdate driver.

Step 3:Click ‘Search automatically for drivers.’

Step 4:Follow the prompts to complete the process, then repeat the update steps, but this time for theDisplay adapter.

Fix 3: Update the Settings for Network Adapter Power Management

To conserve power, your network adapter may enter power-saving mode, which triggers Wi-Fi disconnection when an external monitor is connected. This best workaround is ensuring your computer does not turn off the adapter to save power.

Step 1:Right-clickon theStart menuon the Taskbar and selectDevice Managerfrom the Power User menu.

Step 2:Expand theNetwork adapterscategory,right-click on your Wi-Fi driver, and selectProperties.

Step 3:Click thePower Managementtab, uncheck ‘Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power,’ and clickOK.

Fix 4: Reset Network Settings

If bad or corrupted network settings cause the Wi-Fi connection problem, resetting the settings to default will fix the issue. However, that means you’ll have to enter all the network details and adjust relevant settings again.

Step 1:Press theWindows + Ikeyboard shortcut to open theSettingsapp. Navigate toNetwork & internet > Advanced network settings.

Step 2:Scroll down and clickNetwork reseton the right pane.

Step 3:Click theReset nowbutton.

After resetting your network settings, restart your computer and enter the network details again.

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Last updated on 28 June, 2024

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