Clean install destroys Wifi

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Hi Sam Bercher,

Thank you for the detailed information.

Since the system is able to connect to Wi‑Fi successfully but is experiencing unusually low throughput, this may be related to background network usage or configuration inconsistencies following the recent hardware change.

In addition to the steps already provided above by the Q&A Assist, I would like to add a few further suggestions that may help improve network performance:

1. Disable Windows Update Peer‑to‑Peer Delivery

Windows may download updates not only from Microsoft servers, but also from other PCs on your local network or the internet using a peer‑to‑peer method known as Delivery Optimization.

This process may continue in the background and affect available bandwidth during normal usage:

• Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
• Select Advanced options then choose Delivery Optimization
• Turn off Allow downloads from other PCs

After making the change, please run another speed test.

2. Check for Metered Connection

If your current network is set as a metered connection, Windows may adjust how updates and applications use available bandwidth.

• Open Settings > Network & Internet
• Select Wi‑Fi
• Click your connected network
• Ensure Metered connection is turned Off

3. Reset Network Stack Using Command Prompt

You may also try resetting the Windows network stack manually to rebuild TCP/IP and Winsock configuration:

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator
• Run the following commands one at a time:

netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns

• Restart the PC after running all commands.
• Reconnect to Wi‑Fi and test the connection again.

4. Perform a Clean Boot

To rule out potential software conflicts from background services:

• Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter
• Under the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services
• Select Disable all
• Go to the Startup tab and open Task Manager
• Disable all startup items
• Restart the PC and test the connection again

*Disclaimer: A "clean boot" starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. It helps to determine whether a background service is interfering with your game or program and to isolate the cause of a problem. 

These steps of "clean boot" might look complicated at first glance. However, to avoid any trouble for you, please follow them in order and step-by-step so that it will help you get back on track. 

Please let me know how it goes after trying the above. I’ll be happy to continue assisting if needed.

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If you try to setup your network connection from Windows, you'll always have unpredictable problems. The way you want to setup your network is from the router's firmware, which is independent of Windows. The instruction manual for your router should begin with detailed instructions for creating a secure network, whether it's WiFi or Ethernet. Follow those instructions and you'll be solid. The only thing in Windows that you need to do is to enter the WiFi network's password.