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Fix: Wi-Fi Stops Working When Connecting an External Monitor
Adjusting your power management settings is the key!
4 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Connecting a second monitor to your computer can be a great way to boost productivity, but it can also cause problems. Your Wi-Fi was probably working fine, but now it disconnects when using an external monitor.
Usually, it’s because you’re using an older PC that doesn’t support using both Wi-Fi and the monitor simultaneously. If you’re lucky enough, you won’t need to upgrade your hardware.
So, can an external monitor affect Wi-Fi? Yes, because most wireless adapters are not designed to handle the power requirements of a monitor. When you plug in an external monitor, your Wi-Fi signal is likely going to drop significantly.
You’ll also notice that yourWi-Fi keeps disconnectingif you’re using a newer laptop with a newer operating system that just doesn’t play nicely with their monitor’s settings. Fortunately, modern laptops have built-in Wi-Fi adapters, so this should no longer be an issue.
How do I stop Wi-Fi from dropping whenever I connect an external monitor on Windows 11?
Attempt the following basic workarounds before any technical troubleshooting:
1. Run connection troubleshooters
2. Update your Network driver
Since Windows is a bit finicky sometimes and may not match you with the correct drivers, you’ll need a sure way of getting the correct ones.Outbyte Driver Updateris the tool you need for the job.
It will find new drivers compatible with your computer and download and install them automatically. This way, you will be able to enjoy a better experience while using the internet.
Outbyte Driver Updater
3. Reinstall your Network drivers
4. Adjust your Network adapter power management settings
5. Perform a Network reset
If a network reset does not yield the desired results, it could be a hardware issue. In such a case, you should considerupgrading to a reliable network adapter.
What are some tips for maintaining a stable Wi-Fi connection on Windows 11?
If you’ve observed all these maintenance checks but still, yourWi-Fi is frequently disconnected, it could be your VPN causing the interference. Sometimes,turning on your VPN turns off your Wi-Fi.
Worst case scenario, you’ll have toupgrade to a modern PCwith a built-in network adapter, but on the bright side, it will serve you for years.
Hopefully, we’ve shed some light on the problem and given you a few potential fixes. And while this article is specifically for Windows users, the solutions also apply to other OSes.
As always, we’d like to hear any feedback you have on this article. Let us know whether the solutions worked for you or I you have any other not mentioned here.
More about the topics:Fix network issues,Windows 11
Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
Claire has a knack for solving problems and improving the quality of life for those around her. She’s driven by rationality, curiosity, and simplicity, and always eager to learn more about Microsoft’s products. With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11, errors, and software.
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Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11 errors.
Reviewed byAlex Serban
