Unable to connect to my wifi network

Question

I am running two computers on Windows 10 64 bit. On my desktop, I can connect to my wireless wifi network and the internet using the wireless wifi network set up on my xfinity xb8 modem/router. The network, call it A, is secured with WPA2_personal. However, my Toshiba laptop running the same operating system, using the same security code password will not let me connect to wifi network A; but it will let me connect to a wifi network A_EXT. I am not sure what that wifi network is and do not recall setting up such a network. I have tried forgetting network A_EXT to see if once it is eliminated network A would connect; but it does not. I have tried forgetting network A and reinstalling it; but it still will not connect. The same is the case when I delete and reinstall the wireless network adapter.

I want to know what the A_EXT network is and where it came from; why it lets me connect with my other computer which is on the wifi A network. I also see on the laptop a hidden secured wifi network, which I cannot connect to and do not know what it is or why it appears, when it does not appear on my desktop computer/

Answer 1

It sounds like you're experiencing connectivity issues with your Toshiba laptop while trying to connect to your primary Wi-Fi network (network A). Here are some insights that may help you understand the situation:

1. Network A_EXT: This network is likely a range extender or a guest network set up by your Xfinity modem/router. It is designed to extend the coverage of your primary Wi-Fi network (network A). Sometimes, routers automatically create an extended network to help devices connect better in areas where the main signal is weak. Since your desktop connects to network A without issues, it suggests that the signal strength is adequate for it, while your laptop might be struggling to connect due to signal strength or configuration issues.
2. Connection Issues with Network A: Since you mentioned that your laptop can connect to network A_EXT but not to network A, there could be several reasons:
   • Driver Issues: Ensure that the wireless adapter drivers on your Toshiba laptop are up to date. Outdated drivers can lead to connectivity problems.
   • Network Configuration: Check the network settings on your laptop to ensure that it is configured to connect to WPA2_Personal networks correctly. Sometimes, resetting the network settings can help.
   • Interference: Other electronic devices or physical barriers can interfere with the Wi-Fi signal. Try moving closer to the router or reducing interference from other devices.
   • Security Settings: Double-check the security settings on your router to ensure that there are no restrictions preventing your laptop from connecting.
3. Hidden Secured Wi-Fi Network: The hidden secured network you see may be another network in your vicinity or a configuration on your router that is not broadcasting its SSID. It could also be a remnant of a previous setup. Since it does not appear on your desktop, it might be due to different settings or capabilities between the two devices.

To troubleshoot further, consider the following steps:

• Update your laptop's wireless adapter drivers.
• Reset the network settings on your laptop.
• Check for any updates to your Windows operating system.
• If the problem persists, consider using the Windows Network Troubleshooter to diagnose and fix issues automatically.

If you continue to have issues, you may want to consult your router's documentation or contact your Internet Service Provider for assistance with the network setup.

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References:

• Advanced troubleshooting wireless network connectivity

Answer 2

I find the answers informative, but alas, the suggested fixes have all been tried. The laptop's wifi network adapter driver is up-to-date, there are no new updates for Windows 10; and I have have reset the network setting on both the router and the laptop several times. Unlike the desktop, the laptop is right next to the router so interference is not the problem. The one thing I noticed is that the wifi channel set on the router is different from that on the laptop; but there is no way that I can find to change that setting on the laptop. Indeed, some of the wifi settings are grayed out.

Answer 3

Hello Laurie Solomon, thanks for posting this in our community.

A_EXT is most likely an extended network created by your Xfinity XB8 modem/router. Many modern routers automatically create an “EXT” or “_EXT” SSID for range extension or compatibility with older devices.

To fix this on your Toshiba laptop, open Device Manager and go to Network adapters. Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter and select Update driver. Choose Search automatically for drivers or download the latest version from Toshiba’s support site.

After updating, go to Settings, then Network & Internet, then Wi-Fi, and select Manage known networks. Remove the saved networks and reconnect to your Wi-Fi manually.

Kind regards,

John Oli