On Windows 11, you can install missing drivers for the Ethernet or Wi-Fi adapter during the installation process, and in this guide, I’ll show you how to complete this process.
Although the setup of Windows 11 does a decent work detecting and installing the network drivers during a clean installation process, it’s not uncommon for the system not to be able to set up a particular Ethernet or Wi-Fi adapter.
This issue is particularly problematic because an internet connection is typically required to complete the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE), allowing users to create an account and proceed with the setup. Without network connectivity, advancing beyond this stage can be challenging. However, the Out-of-box Experience includes an option to install the network adapter manually, allowing you to continue with the rest of the setup.
In this guide, I’ll outline the steps to install network drivers during the OOBE stage of the setup.
Install Ethernet or Wi-Fi adapter drivers during installation of Windows 11
Before proceeding, you will have to use another computer to download the network drivers onto a USB flash drive. However, this can be somewhat tricky since you may find the driver as a “.exe” installer or “.zip” package.
If you need to install the drivers within the OOBE stage, you’ll need to download the “.zip” package and extract its contents onto the USB flash drive. Otherwise, the system won’t be able to install it.
To install missing network drivers during the installation of Windows 11, continue with the OOBE, and in the “Let’s connect you to a network” page, connect the USB flash drive with the driver files and use these steps:
Click the Install driver button.
Select the USB flash drive from the left navigation pane.
Open the driver files location in the USB drive and select the appropriate “.inf” file (or the file format available as long as it’s not a “.exe” or “.zip” file).
Continue with the on-screen directions to complete the installation.
Once the installation is complete, Windows 11 should recognize your network adapter, allowing you to establish an internet connection to proceed with the rest of the setup process.
It’s important to note that this option is relatively new. In the past, you needed to use workarounds to perform this task.
Alternatively, you can always continue with a local account, and when you’re on the desktop, you can install the missing drivers and then link your Microsoft account with the local account.
If you still haven’t started the installation of Windows 11, I always recommend checking the network adapter information from “Device Manager” and downloading the corresponding drivers if they’re needed before processing with the installation.
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