How to Install Network Adapter Driver on Windows 11 Without Internet
Need to install a network adapter driver on Windows 11 but don’t have internet? No problem! You can get it done by using another computer with internet access to download the driver and then transferring it to your offline PC. Here’s a quick guide on how to accomplish this.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on Installing Network Adapter Driver on Windows 11 Without Internet
This tutorial will guide you through the steps necessary to download a network adapter driver on a computer with internet and then install it on a Windows 11 device that doesn’t have internet access.
Step 1: Find Out the Network Adapter Model
First, identify the model of the network adapter in your Windows 11 PC.
To do this, open Device Manager by pressing Windows + X and selecting Device Manager. Look under the ‘Network adapters’ section to find your network adapter’s model name.
Step 2: Download the Driver on Another Computer
Using a computer with internet access, visit the manufacturer’s website and download the driver for your specific network adapter.
Make sure to save the driver file to a USB flash drive or any other portable storage device. Ensure that you download the correct version compatible with Windows 11.
Step 3: Transfer the Driver to Your Offline PC
Connect the USB flash drive to your Windows 11 PC.
Copy the driver file from the USB drive to your computer. You can save it to the desktop or any folder that’s easy to access.
Step 4: Install the Driver
Run the driver installation file on your offline Windows 11 PC.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. You may need to restart your computer once the installation is complete.
Step 5: Verify the Installation
After installation, go back to Device Manager to ensure the network adapter is listed without any error symbols.
If you see the network adapter listed without any issues, it means the driver was installed successfully.
Once you have completed these steps, your Windows 11 PC should be able to recognize the network adapter and connect to the internet as usual.
Tips for Installing Network Adapter Driver on Windows 11 Without Internet
- Always download drivers from the official manufacturer’s website to avoid potential malware.
- Double-check the compatibility of the driver with Windows 11.
- Keep a copy of essential drivers on a USB flash drive for future use.
- If you’re unsure about the network adapter model, use third-party software to identify it.
- Regularly update your drivers to keep your network adapter functioning optimally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my phone as a hotspot to download the driver directly?
Yes, if your phone can connect to the internet, you can use it as a hotspot to download the driver directly to your Windows 11 PC.
What if I can’t find my network adapter model number?
You can use third-party software like Speccy or Belarc Advisor to identify the network adapter model.
Is it safe to download drivers from third-party websites?
It’s generally safer to download drivers from the manufacturer’s website to avoid the risk of malware.
Do I need to uninstall the old driver before installing a new one?
It’s not always necessary, but it can help avoid potential conflicts. You can uninstall the old driver via Device Manager before installing the new one.
What should I do if the new driver doesn’t work?
You can roll back to the previous driver from Device Manager under the Properties of the network adapter.
Summary of Steps
- Find out the network adapter model.
- Download the driver on another computer.
- Transfer the driver to your offline PC.
- Install the driver.
- Verify the installation.
Conclusion
Installing a network adapter driver on Windows 11 without an internet connection may seem daunting, but it’s actually straightforward if you follow these steps. Knowing the model of your network adapter, downloading the correct driver, and transferring it via a USB flash drive are key steps to getting your offline PC back online.
Remember to always download drivers from trusted sources and keep a backup of essential drivers for future use. Whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned pro, these guidelines should help you navigate the process smoothly. If you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to seek further reading or professional assistance. Happy computing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.