[SOLVED] Wireless Network Adapter not Working

[WilliamZephyr]

Hi there! I'd greatly appreciate any help I could get. Here's my problem:

I am running on an Aspire E5-573G--typing this while connected via ethernet because that still works--and after dropping my laptop from a short height (yes, I know) my computer will no longer show any available networks. After doing some light research online, I thought maybe the chip had come dislodged, so I opened the computer and it was perfectly in place (black and white wires and all). Then I moved on to ensuring all my drivers are updated, and Windows assures me they are. I've even tried system-restoring to no avail. This is what the situation looks like from device manager:

https://prnt.sc/shkud5

Is there something I'm missing or doing incorrectly? (Quite possible, I'm pretty inept when it comes to computers.) Do I need to buy a new Wifi Adapter card? If so, I would appreciate instruction on what to buy and where.

Again, thanks to anyone who tries to help! P.S. I can provide any information about specs, if requested.

 

[Ralston18]

The wires may be in place but some trace may have broken or cracked in the wireless adapter.

See if you can borrow a USB wireless adapter from a family member or friend.

Just for testing purposes. Objective being to determine if wireless is functional via another working wireless adapter.

Do remember that only one network adapter, either wired or wireless should be enabled for use. Not both at the same time.

Try running "ipconfig /all" without quotes via the Command Prompt. Post the results.

You can also try the Netsh commands troubleshoot:

https://www.windowscentral.com/how-manage-wireless-networks-using-command-prompt-windows-10

Do not make any changes: just explore what and see what you find.

Post accordingly. Be sure to redact personal information as shown via the white blocks in the Command Prompt windows.

 

[WilliamZephyr]

Thanks for your help, Ralston. It turns out the problem was resolved by simply performing a power reset on my laptop. I turned it off, opened it up, took out the battery, and then held the button down for about a minute.

After then restarting the laptop, the chip was working. I don't understand too well why this fixed it, but from what I understand there may have been some sort of static charge in the chip preventing it from properly starting/working, and discharging everything fixed that.