Wireless USB adapter randomly doesn't work during startup

[sgcyrus]

My Microsoft Wireless Networking Wireless USB adapter, which I've had for several years, sometimes doesn't work when I start my computer up (it can't see any wireless networks). Usually I fix this by either right-clicking and repair, and/or disconnecting and reconnecting the adapter. However sometimes it takes many attempts and it's very annoying. I'm using Windows XP. Are there any fixes for this, or do I just need to get a new USB adapter?

 

[Guest]

If you've had it several years it might be worth buying a new one -- USB wireless adapter's don't have a great record for reliability (due to the shortcomings of USB and a tendency for the adapters to overheat).

If you have a desktop computer might go for PCI instead. If laptop -- I'd stick with the MS unit because your next laptop will certainly have wireless as standard.