After much research it seems that many users do have this problem through different scenarios, but all have a common event, using an ethernet cable during a period when their wireless was working perfectly, then losing their wireless functionality immediately after using an ethernet cable. (I am convinced this is a Windows bug.)
The solution I found that worked for me can be found here.
Basically, you need to un-install the "Client For Microsoft Networks" driver for the relevant wireless network adapter to clean up the mess. (First make sure you're not using an ethernet for re-establishing wireless connection). I have re-posted the steps from the above link in case that link disappears:
- Goto Network and Sharing Center
Goto "Change Adapter Settings"
Right click "Wireless Network Connection". You should notice that it has a
"Red X" with it indicating some problem. BTW Diagnosing it is
generally useless.
Select "Properties"
Uninstall "Client for Microsoft Networks"
- Click OK, and restart your computer.
- Repeat steps 1-4
- This time however, select "Install" => "Client" => "Client for Microsoft Networks".
The connection should be re-established and the "Red X"
for "Wireless Network Connections" in the list of connections (As
you would have seen at the end of Step 2 above) should disappear, indicating the wireless connection is working again, (see below).
Pay attention to which network adapter you're modifying, Note there may be more than one wireless connection, for instance the "Microsoft Virtual WiFi Miniport" is not relevant; You need to select the dedicated device, (such as the Atheros wireless adapter in my case)
This solution restored my wireless access and my sanity. One way to avoid this problem in the first place is to "disable" the wifi connection first before switching to an ethernet cable. Hope it helps you...
