available networks not showing up


  1. Posts : 3
    Windows 10
       #1

    available networks not showing up


    Hello everyone,

    I'm just having an issue with finding networks. Basically, the available networks for wifi are not showing up, even when I click on the wifi button at the bottom right of the screen. It still connects, but only to known networks. I can't find any other networks to join. I have a Dell laptop with Windows 10, and I am just so confused. Please help.
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 8,057
    windows 10
       #2

    Welcome to the forum. Open a CMD prompt then type


    netsh wlan show networks
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 9,765
    Mac OS Catalina
       #3

    Are you trying to connect to your own network and do you have the SSID hidden? You can go to a Command Window and run netsh wlan show all.
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 3
    Windows 10
    Thread Starter
       #4

    I am not currently trying to find my own network. I just need it to connect to my college's wifi. The only problem is that the network list just keeps loading and loading, with nothing coming up. Also, is it possible to connect from the wifi networks listed in the command prompt?
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 13,898
    Win10 Version 22H2 Pro and Home, Win11 Pro and Home
       #5

    techluv said:
    The only problem is that the network list just keeps loading and loading, with nothing coming up.
    I've seen that in a business [a motel and a large campground] and it was caused by too-weak of a signal between the computer/s and the Wireless Router, solved by adding a Repeater/Extender. However, that may not be a choice of your college's IT department. If the location of the Router could be determined it might be possible to walk a Notebook closer to it to check.
      My Computers


  6. Posts : 822
    Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 64-bit
       #6

    I noticed your also running Linux Have you tried connecting with that.

    How old is your WiFi card/USB, If it's too old it probably will not have the right protocol to connect.
      My Computer


  7. Posts : 3
    Windows 10
    Thread Starter
       #7

    Berton said:
    I've seen that in a business [a motel and a large campground] and it was caused by too-weak of a signal between the computer/s and the Wireless Router, solved by adding a Repeater/Extender. However, that may not be a choice of your college's IT department. If the location of the Router could be determined it might be possible to walk a Notebook closer to it to check.
    Alright I'll try that. Thanks
      My Computer


  8. Posts : 30,120
    Windows 11 Pro x64 Version 23H2
       #8

    Please also ensure under the Wireless setting in advance power mgmt that you have the power set to max for both plugged in and on battery. Advance Power mgmt options are found through Windows Settings, System, Power and sleep, then additional settings upper right, then click on change plan for the plan you are using, then change advance in the lower left.

    Ken
      My Computer


  9. Posts : 8,057
    windows 10
       #9

    To connect via cmd line type

    netsh wlan connect name=HANSELMAN-N change name to the name of your network
      My Computer


  10. Posts : 9,765
    Mac OS Catalina
       #10

    techluv said:
    I am not currently trying to find my own network. I just need it to connect to my college's wifi. The only problem is that the network list just keeps loading and loading, with nothing coming up. Also, is it possible to connect from the wifi networks listed in the command prompt?
    If you are trying to connect to your college's WIFI, open up a Command Window and type in netsh wlan show all and see if their SSID shows up. Otherwise contact your College IT dept and explain to them what is going on or take you laptop to them and let them show you how to fix the issue. You can try to connect to what pop's up, but if it is not Public and has a Passphrase, you cannot use it and it would not be for your College.
      My Computer


 

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