Can't connect to available wireless connections through wireless adapter.

elowell

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Jul 25, 2013
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Hello,

This has me stumped. I simply want to use my Edimax EW‑7811Un (which I've used in multiple PCs) to connect to my wireless internet. If I have initial problems, I usually uninstall and reinstall drivers/update drivers, try different usb ports, etc. With all those checked off already, I'm out of ideas. Here's the real issue. I have installed the adapter's drivers and updated them. I get the signal bar that signifies that wireless connections are available. But when I click the "Connect" button for my (or any) wifi connection, the connections box disappears and it doesn't connect. It doesn't ask for a password or anything either. Double clicking the connection does the same. I've also tried resetting the wireless adapters and used the "ipconfig reset winsock" command in cmd. I have also tried connecting in safe mode, same thing happens. Can't decide if it's the adapter's fault or Windows'. I can confirm that the ethernet works fine, and wireless works fine on my laptop. Any ideas are appreciated.
 

elowell

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Jul 25, 2013
27
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10,540


Not sure how to check the adapter, but I know the router is set to allow 2.4ghz and 5ghz simultaneously. Is this what you mean? I think the Edimax is pretty universal.
 

elowell

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Jul 25, 2013
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No luck. Disabled 2.4, then 5. Tried each, then both again. I don't think it is an issue with the router. And I've used this same adapter on multiple PCs, including the one in question. But let me try to explain the issue again more clearly: clicking the signal icon in the notification area gives the full list of available connections as usual. But the odd part happens when you click connect on one of them. I don't get the usual "Attempting to connect" or "Failed to connect" or "Password required". It just closes the available connection list and that's it.
 

elowell

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Jul 25, 2013
27
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10,540
No ideas? This has become a very annoying issue and reinstalling Windows is not an option... I've spent many many hours trying to figure this bug out and it's still got me. I uninstalled any software that may interfere with wireless connections (antivirus, hamachi, etc). Nothing. I have 3 different adapters (from around the house) and all give the same result. So it's obviously an issue with Windows. Not sure if I have already noted this, but I cannot click the "Set up a new connection or network" link in the Network and Sharing section of Control Panel. When I click the link it does nothing. Ever heard of this???
 

elowell

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Jul 25, 2013
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Fixed. I had to use the "upgrade" feature on the Windows 7 installation disk. Kept all my current settings and software and reinstalled core Windows files. It's not really a solution, but did ultimately fix the issue.