Wireless network card now can't be found

Question

I had a working D-Link wireless network card disappear from network connections folder. Now utility says it can't find the network card. Uninstalled driver and card, then went thru proper driver/card reinstall procedure, but still can't find card. What could have happened? Card went bad?

volcano11 · Answer

Try uninstalling the device in Device Manager, then physically removing the card from the computer. Reboot, then shut down, physically reinstall the card and see if Windows picks it up and asks to install drivers for it.

Steve

evanweil · Answer

OK, will try it Steve. Standby. By the way, card isn't shown in devise manager either. Will start with remove card, reboot, reinstall card.

evanweil · Answer

Looks like it worked! I was actually in the process of reloading the operating system (It had also lost all restore points when wireless card got 'lost') when your instructions came back. Finished that (w/chipset, ethernet drivers, etc.) & then followed with your procedure.   I have a couple of follow-up questions: Is enabling windows firewall enough security and should I allow windows update to load SP2 & other updates?

volcano11 · Answer

The Windows firewall will only protect your from outside hackers. If a worm or other infestation somehow gets on your computer and starts sending information out, the Windows firewall will not detect that type of attack. To be more secure, you would need a third party firewall such a Zone Alarm, Norton Firewall, or McAfee Firewall (the latter 2 being part of internet security suites).

SP2 plugs a lot of security holes in Windows. It is highly recommended that this update be installed.

Steve

evanweil · Answer

Many Thanks! :robotvery-happy:

Vellamint · Answer

I just want to say that the same thing has been happening to me.....I have to physically remove the card, reinsert it and restart.  This has been happening about once a week and I have no idea why.  Quite frankly it is getting pretty annoying - I turn my pc on everyday wondering if I will have a connection or not....   Does anyone have any idea why.    I have a Dimension 8520 and a D-Link  DWL-G510 AirPlus G Wireless PCI Adapter.   Thanks.

Vellamint · Answer

bumping up - I really need suggestions to resolve this.

evanweil · Answer

Maybe you should start a new 'thread' with your question/problem I also had. The experts at dell might not be monitoring this old thread anymore and may respond quicker. I can confirm I have the same wireless card on a dimension 4600 that did the same thing. I unistalled windows SP2 and got it to stay put. I have emailed D-Link to see if there is a compatibility problem with SP2 that they may have a 'fix' for, but haven't heard back yet.

Networking, Internet, & Bluetooth

Wireless network card now can't be found

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