TP-Link WN821N WiFi adapter not working or detecting networks

If your TP-Link WN821N WiFi adapter is not working or detecting networks then this post will be able to help you. Routers from TP-Link can share a 3G/4G connection with multiple wireless devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. They also provide internet for wired devices like desktop computers. But recently, many users have been complaining their TP-Link WN821N WiFi adapter is not working or detecting networks.

Fix TP-Link WN821N WiFi adapter not working or detecting networks

The main reason for this issue is outdated or corrupted network drivers. However, something could be wrong with the WiFi adapter. Fortunately, you can follow the below methods to fix this:

1. Run Network Adapter Troubleshooter
2. Restart WLAN AutoConfig Services
3. Install the Network drivers in Compatibility Mode
4. Run these Network Commands
5. Power-Cycle your Router

Now we’ll see these in detail.

1] Run Network Adapter Troubleshooter

Before getting started with different troubleshooting methods to fix this issue, try running Microsoft’s Automated Troubleshooting Services as a first step to diagnose and repair common Network issues. Here’s how:

1. Press the Windows key + I to open Settings.
2. Scroll down and click on Troubleshoot > Other Troubleshooters.
3. Click on Run beside Network Adapter and follow the instructions on-screen.

2] Restart WLAN AutoConfig Services

WLAN AutoConfig service selects which wireless network the computer will automatically connect. This includes automatically selecting and connecting to a more preferred wireless network when one becomes available. Restarting this service can help fix network adapter-related issues. Here is how you can do it:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type services.msc and hit Enter.
3. Scroll down and search for WLAN AutoConfig.
4. Right-click on the service and select Restart.
5. Once done, restart your device and check if the issue is fixed.

3] Install the Network drivers in Compatibility Mode

Installing Network drivers in Compatibility Mode runs programs using settings from a previous version of Windows. Here’s how to do it:

• Download the driver from its manufacturer’s website.
• Right-click on the driver’s setup file and select Properties.
• Navigate to the Compatibility tab and select Run this program in compatibility mode for.
• Then choose Windows operating system from the drop-down menu and proceed with the installation.
• Restart your device once done and check if the issue with the TP-Link WN821N WiFi adapter gets fixed.

4] Run these Network Commands

Running the network commands will reset the TCP/IP stack, renew the IP address, Reset Winsock and flush the DNS client resolver cache. Here’s how you can do it:

Press the Windows key, search for Command Prompt, and select Run as Administrator.

Type the following commands one by one and hit Enter.

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

Restart your device once done.

5] Power-Cycle your Router

If none of these steps were able to help you, your internet connection is likely the culprit. Perform a speed test, or else power-cycle your router. Here’s how you can power-cycle your router:

• Unplug the router and the modem from the power source and wait at least 30 seconds.
• Plug the modem and router back into the power source. The lights on the modem will blink. Wait for them to stop blinking.
• Wait a few minutes for the TP-Link modem and router to fully power on.
• On your PC, try to connect again.

Fix: Error code 90403 in TP-Link WiFi Router Control Panel

Why is my WiFi adapter not picking up networks?

Updated or corrupt network drivers are the most common reason why USB Wi-Fi adaptors may not work. You can fix this by downloading and reinstalling the adaptors from the official website. However, it could also be related to an unstable internet connection, so restarting your router might help.

Why is my TP-Link extender not showing up on the Wi-Fi list?

Usually, this issue occurs if the extender’s firmware is corrupt or it’s not receiving enough power supply. In that case, you need to check if your TP-Link extender is getting proper power supply. Following that, you can run an audit on your router, Wi-Fi extender, and computer to get rid of this problem.

Read: WiFi Profile Manager: View Preferred Wireless Network Profiles.