How to fix a Windows 11 computer that is slow to connect to Wi-Fi after waking from sleep

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to fix a Windows 11 computer that is slow to connect to Wi-Fi after waking from sleep. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

If your Windows 11 computer takes a long time to reconnect to Wi-Fi after waking from sleep mode, it can disrupt your workflow and delay access to cloud applications. This issue is usually caused by power management settings that turn off the wireless adapter to save energy. This guide provides steps for small business and home office users in Brisbane to restore fast Wi-Fi reconnection.

Detailed Instructions

1. Disable Power Saving for the Wi-Fi Adapter

1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the Network adapters category.
3. Right-click your wireless adapter (often labelled Wi-Fi or Wireless) and select Properties.
4. Click the Power Management tab.
5. Uncheck the box Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.
6. Click OK to save the changes.

Note: If you use a USB Wi-Fi dongle, try plugging it into a different USB port, preferably one directly on the motherboard rather than a hub.

2. Update the Network Driver

1. Open Device Manager again.
2. Right-click your wireless adapter and select Update driver.
3. Choose Search automatically for drivers.
4. If Windows finds an update, follow the prompts to install it and restart your computer.

3. Adjust Advanced Power Settings

1. Press Windows key + R, type control panel, and press Enter.
2. Select Hardware and Sound, then Power Options.
3. Click Change plan settings next to your active plan.
4. Click Change advanced power settings.
5. Expand Wireless Adapter Settings and then Power Saving Mode.
6. Set both On battery and Plugged in to Maximum Performance.
7. Click Apply and then OK.

4. Run the Network Troubleshooter

1. Click Start and select Settings.
2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
3. Find Network Adapter and click Run.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to detect and fix issues.

Troubleshooting

Wi-Fi still connects slowly after sleep

• Check for interference from other devices, such as microwaves or cordless phones.
• Move closer to your wireless access point to test signal strength.
• Restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in.

Connection drops entirely after sleep

• Verify that your router is not blocking the device after a period of inactivity.
• Check for updated firmware on your wireless access point.

Warning: Avoid disabling power saving on all devices if you are using a laptop on battery power, as this may reduce battery life.

If you have completed these steps and your computer is still slow to reconnect to Wi-Fi, please Open a Ticket with our Brisbane support team.

You may also find these related articles helpful:

• Computer running slow
• Browser not loading pages
• Applications freezing or crashing
• Blue screen of death (BSOD) - restart steps

Still Having Issues?