The Intel R Wireless AC 9560 is a popular choice for many laptop users seeking reliable and fast wireless connectivity. However, like all technology, it has its fair share of issues. If you find yourself grappling with the Intel R Wireless AC 9560 not working, fear not! This article serves as an extensive guide to identifying, diagnosing, and resolving the problems associated with this wireless adapter.
Understanding the Intel R Wireless AC 9560
Before diving into troubleshooting steps, it’s essential to understand what the Intel R Wireless AC 9560 is and its primary features. This wireless card, known for its support of dual-band 802.11ac standards, allows for faster data rates and improved range. It is commonly found in various laptops and devices, enabling seamless connectivity for streaming, gaming, and productivity.
Key Features of Intel R Wireless AC 9560:
- Dual-Band Connectivity: Supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, allowing users to manage stability and speed according to their needs.
- Bluetooth 5.0 Support: Provides a robust Bluetooth connection for peripherals such as mice, keyboards, headphones, and more.
- Enhanced Security: Offers advanced security features, including support for WPA3, ensuring safer connections.
Despite its advantages, users often experience issues with this wireless adapter. The next section delves into common symptoms and possible causes for the malfunction.
Identifying the Issue
When the Intel R Wireless AC 9560 stops working, various symptoms may present themselves. Understanding these symptoms is the first step toward troubleshooting the issue.
Common Symptoms
- Connection Drops: Frequent disconnections from Wi-Fi networks, undermining productivity.
- Limited Connectivity: The device may connect to the Wi-Fi but with limited or no internet access.
- No Wi-Fi Networks Detected: The adapter may fail to recognize available networks, appearing as if the Wi-Fi is turned off.
Possible Causes
The failure of the Intel R Wireless AC 9560 can stem from various factors:
- Driver Issues: Outdated or corrupt drivers can lead to connectivity problems.
- Hardware Conflicts: Conflicts with other hardware components can disrupt the functioning of the wireless adapter.
- System Misconfigurations: Improper settings or configurations can cause the wireless card to malfunction.
- Interference: External factors such as other electronic devices may lead to signal interference.
Understanding these potential causes allows you to target your troubleshooting efforts effectively.
Troubleshooting Steps
Now that we have identified the symptoms and possible causes, let’s explore actionable troubleshooting steps to get your Intel R Wireless AC 9560 back up and running.
1. Check for Basic Issues
Before diving into complex solutions, start with basic checks:
- Toggle Wi-Fi: Sometimes, simply turning the Wi-Fi off and back on can resolve connection issues.
- Ensure Airplane Mode is Off: Make sure that your device is not in Airplane mode, which disables all wireless communications.
- Restart Your Laptop: A quick reboot can often resolve temporary glitches.
2. Update Drivers
Outdated or corrupt drivers are a common culprit for connectivity issues. Follow these steps to update drivers:
- Access Device Manager:
Right-click on the Start Menu and select Device Manager.
Locate Network Adapters:
Expand the Network adapters section and find the Intel R Wireless AC 9560.
Update Driver:
- Right-click on the adapter and choose Update driver.
Select Search automatically for updated driver software. If a new version is available, it will get installed automatically.
Reboot the Computer: After updating, restart your computer to apply changes.
If Windows does not find a new driver, you may want to visit the Intel website to download the latest drivers directly.
3. Disable Power Management Settings
Windows sometimes manages power settings that can affect the wireless adapter’s performance. Adjust the following settings:
Open Device Manager: As mentioned earlier, locate the Intel R Wireless AC 9560.
Access Properties:
Right-click on the adapter and click Properties.
Disable Power Management:
Go to the Power Management tab and uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.
Apply Changes: Click OK and restart the computer.
4. Uninstall and Reinstall the Adapter
If issues persist, consider uninstalling the adapter and letting Windows reinstall it:
Open Device Manager: Right-click on the Start Menu, select Device Manager.
Uninstall the Adapter:
- Right-click on Intel R Wireless AC 9560 and select Uninstall device.
- Confirm the action and restart your computer. Windows should automatically reinstall the adapter upon startup.
5. Check Hardware Conflicts
Conflicts between hardware devices can disrupt connectivity. To ensure there are no hardware conflicts:
- Access Device Manager: Verify that there are no exclamation marks or error symbols next to any devices.
- Disable Other Network Adapters: If other wireless devices are present, consider temporarily disabling them to see if it resolves the issue.
6. Reset Network Settings
A comprehensive reset of network settings can sometimes restore connectivity:
Open Settings: Navigate to Settings > Network & Internet.
Network Reset:
- Scroll down and click on Network Reset.
- Follow the prompts to reset your network settings, and then restart your computer.
Advanced Troubleshooting
If the basic troubleshooting steps fail, consider diving into more advanced solutions.
1. Change Wi-Fi Channel
Wi-Fi channels may become congested, especially in areas with many networks. Changing the channel in your router settings can help:
- Access Router Settings:
Enter your router’s IP address into a web browser and log in.
Change Channel:
- Under the wireless settings, look for the option to change the channel. Experiment with different channels (1, 6, or 11 for 2.4 GHz; any of 36, 40, 44, or 48 for 5 GHz).
2. Using Windows Troubleshooter
Windows has built-in troubleshooters that can automatically identify and fix problems:
- Open Settings: Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
- Internet Connections: Click on Internet Connections and follow the prompts.
3. Check for Windows Updates
Keeping your OS updated can resolve compatibility issues:
- Open Settings: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Check for Updates: Install any available updates and restart your computer.
4. Contact Technical Support
If all else fails, contacting technical support for assistance can be the best course of action. They can guide you through complex troubleshooting or suggest repairs if there are hardware failures involved.
Conclusion
Dealing with the Intel R Wireless AC 9560 not working can be frustrating, but with this comprehensive guide, you now have the tools to effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issues. Begin with the basics and progressively move to advanced options as needed. Remember, a little patience goes a long way in resolving tech problems.
In summary, maintaining updated drivers, disabling power management settings, and routinely checking for network conflicts are fundamental practices for ensuring the seamless operation of your Intel R Wireless AC 9560. Whether you’re streaming videos, engaging in online work, or playing games, a stable connection is essential to enhance your experience. If issues persist, don’t hesitate to seek professional help to restore your connectivity.
What are the common causes of Intel R Wireless AC 9560 not working?
The Intel R Wireless AC 9560 can stop functioning correctly for a variety of reasons. Common causes include driver issues, hardware malfunctions, or conflicts with other installed software. Outdated or corrupt drivers can prevent the wireless adapter from operating correctly. Additionally, physical damage or aging hardware can also lead to connectivity problems.
Another potential cause is interference from other hardware or software, such as VPNs, firewalls, or even other wireless networks. If there are any recent changes to the system, like new software installations or updates, these could also contribute to the malfunction. Identifying the specific cause is the first step towards resolving the issue.
How can I update the drivers for Intel R Wireless AC 9560?
To update the drivers for the Intel R Wireless AC 9560, you can start by visiting the Intel website and navigating to the “Download Center.” Here, you can search for the specific model of your wireless adapter and download the latest drivers available. Be sure to choose the correct version for your operating system to ensure compatibility.
Alternatively, you can also update your drivers through the Device Manager in Windows. Simply right-click on the Start menu, select “Device Manager,” locate “Network adapters,” and find Intel R Wireless AC 9560. Right-click on it and select “Update driver,” then choose the option to search automatically for updated driver software. This method allows Windows to look for the most current drivers available for your device.
What troubleshooting steps can I take if my Intel R Wireless AC 9560 is still not working?
If your Intel R Wireless AC 9560 is still not working after updating the drivers, you can try a few troubleshooting steps. First, ensure that the wireless functionality is enabled on your computer. This can often be toggled through a function key on the keyboard or through the Windows settings where you can check your network and connectivity options.
Next, try resetting the network settings on your device. You can do this by navigating to the “Network & Internet” settings in Windows, selecting the “Status” option, and clicking on “Network reset.” This will remove all network adapters and reapply the default settings. After performing this reset, restart your computer and check if the wireless adapter is functioning properly.
What should I do if my Intel R Wireless AC 9560 hardware seems damaged?
If you suspect that your Intel R Wireless AC 9560 hardware is damaged, it is essential first to perform a few checks. Check for any physical damage, such as cracks or loose connections, and make sure that the device is securely connected to the motherboard. If you’re comfortable doing so, you can open your laptop or desktop to examine the wireless card directly.
If the hardware appears intact, you might consider running a diagnostic tool provided by your computer manufacturer or Intel. This tool can help identify if there’s a hardware fault. If it’s confirmed that the hardware is indeed damaged, you may need to replace the wireless card. This could involve purchasing a compatible card and installing it yourself or taking your device to a certified technician for repair.
How can I check if my Intel R Wireless AC 9560 is conflicting with other software?
To check if your Intel R Wireless AC 9560 is conflicting with other software, you can start by booting your computer in Safe Mode. Safe Mode starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services, which can help identify if a background application is causing the problem. If the wireless adapter works correctly in Safe Mode, there’s a strong possibility that a software conflict is the issue.
You might also consider performing a clean boot of your system. By disabling all non-Microsoft services and startup programs, you can narrow down the source of the conflict. After re-enabling items gradually, you can identify which program or service is interfering with your wireless adapter. Addressing or uninstalling the conflicting software can help restore the functionality of your Intel R Wireless AC 9560.
Is there a way to perform a factory reset on my networking equipment?
Yes, you can perform a factory reset on your networking equipment to troubleshoot issues related to your Intel R Wireless AC 9560. To do this, locate the reset button on your router or modem, which is usually a small pinhole button. Using a pointed object such as a paperclip, press and hold this button for about 10 seconds until the lights on the device blink, indicating that it is resetting.
After resetting the equipment, you will need to reconfigure your network settings. This typically involves accessing the router’s interface using a web browser and logging in with the default credentials, which you can find in the device manual. Once logged in, you can set up your network name (SSID), Wi-Fi password, and other preferences to restore network functionality.