How to Fix Wi-Fi Not Working on Ubuntu

Wi-Fi issues on Ubuntu can be frustrating, especially if you’re new to Linux. This guide will walk you through troubleshooting steps to get your Wi-Fi working again, with helpful links for deeper insights.

1. Check If Wi-Fi is Enabled

1. Check the Wi-Fi Switch:
   Some laptops have a physical Wi-Fi switch or function key (e.g., Fn + F2). Ensure it’s turned on.
2. Verify in Ubuntu Settings:
   Open Settings > Wi-Fi and ensure the toggle is turned on.
3. Read More: If you’re unfamiliar with Ubuntu’s Wi-Fi settings, the official Ubuntu documentation provides a detailed guide to connecting to networks.

2. Verify Wi-Fi Drivers

1. List Hardware Information:
   Open the terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T) and run:

   sudo lshw -C network

Look for your wireless interface under “network.”

2. Install Missing Drivers:
   Go to Software & Updates > Additional Drivers and check if proprietary drivers (e.g., Broadcom or Intel) are available. Apply the changes to install.
3. Troubleshooting Broadcom Wi-Fi:
   Broadcom cards often cause issues. Follow this guide from Linux Mint forums to manually install Broadcom drivers on Ubuntu-based distributions.

3. Restart Network Services

1. Disable and Re-enable Wi-Fi:
   Run these commands in the terminal:

   nmcli radio wifi off
   nmcli radio wifi on

2. Restart the Network Manager:
   If Wi-Fi still doesn’t work:

   sudo service network-manager restart

3. Learn More: The NetworkManager Arch Wiki has detailed information on configuring and troubleshooting the network manager, which applies to Ubuntu as well.

4. Update Your System

1. Update Package List:
   Open the terminal and run:

   sudo apt update

2. Upgrade Installed Packages:

   sudo apt upgrade

3. Upgrade the Kernel:
   Sometimes newer kernels include better Wi-Fi driver support. Learn how to upgrade your kernel from this How-To Geek guide.

5. Test with a Live USB

1. Boot from a Live USB:
   Use the Ubuntu installer USB to boot into a live session and check if Wi-Fi works. If it does, the issue is likely configuration-related on your installed system.
2. Copy Working Drivers:
   Copy drivers and configuration files from the live session to your main system. This guide on Ask Ubuntu explains how to do it.

6. Use a USB Wi-Fi Adapter

If your internal Wi-Fi card isn’t working, consider using a USB Wi-Fi adapter with Linux support. Products like the TP-Link TL-WN722N are known for good Linux compatibility. Check out this list of recommended Wi-Fi adapters for Linux to find one that suits your needs.