We are all aware that Intel is a huge name in the technology market. The company was founded in 1968.
Most of us have our first exposure to intel when we buy a new computer or laptop and the processor is Intel. Intel is not just limited to the manufacture of processors. Over time, they have also ventured into other technologies like manufacturing adapters, integrated circuits, graphic chips, etc.
In this article, we are going to shed light on the network adapter manufactured by Intel. So, how to fix Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3168 not working?
To understand how to fix the problems with the adapter, we need to dwell deep into what is actually causing the issue and what can be the specific fix for each issue.
Follow the next sections to get a deeper understanding of your Intel network adapter.
What is Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3168?
Before we understand what are the different problems with the network adapter, let us see what this specific model offers.
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3168 is :
- A wireless Wifi+Bluetooth Adapter
- Provides complete support for Windows 10
- Is from the 3rd generation of Intel software. It is designed to be much faster than the earlier versions.
- It is designed to get you connected to the internet seamlessly. You can get connected to both 5 GHz and 2.5 GHz bands.
What Are The Problems With Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3168?
Now that we know what the device is designed for and what it helps you with, let us take a look at why your device might not be working to its full potential.
In this section, we will discuss everything that can go wrong with the device.
Reason 1: Your hardware is not compatible
To connect with the Intel AC adapter, there are certain specifications that your device needs to follow. If the device hardware is not compatible with the network adapter, you will not be able to use the adapter to connect to the internet.
You can go to its website of Intel and check the exact specifications to be compatible with using the 3168 dual-band wireless adapter.
Reason 2: The temperature range you are using is not suitable
There is a temperature range that is suitable for the device to function. When you check the specifications of the product on the official website, you will see that the optimal temperature for the adapter is 0-80 degrees C.
If the temperature goes out of this range, your device will malfunction.
Reason 3: The Operating System that you are using is not compatible
As discussed before, you need specific conditions fulfilled before you can use a particular adapter device from Intel.
According to the specifications listed on the website, the operating systems that are compatible with the Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3168 adapter are:
- Windows 11, 64 Bit
- Windows 10, 64 Bit
- Linux
If the operating system that you are using is not one of these listed, you will not be able to use the adapter.
Reason 4: Drivers are not updated
It is not sufficient to have the right hardware and software in place. You also need the right drivers updated to the latest version in order to use the device.
Drivers are software that helps the computer to understand how to use an external device. If the drivers are not updated, all the connections that you make with the external device will fail.
How To Fix “Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3168 Not Working”?
Now that we have taken a look at what are the specific problems with the network adapter not working for you, we can now focus on how to solve those problems.
So, let us take a look at the solutions in this section.
Fix 1: Check the hardware compatibility
As mentioned above, you can check the exact hardware specifications compatible with the network adapter.
This is the link where you can look for the exact descriptions.
If you find out that the device that you are connecting to the adapter is not compatible, there is nothing you can do except switch the device and use the adapter with a compatible one.
Fix 2: Check the OS compatibility
We have mentioned the exact Operating system versions that are compatible with the device. They are:
- Windows 11, 64 Bit
- Windows 10, 64 Bit
- Linux
If you do not have one of these operating systems, then you need to update your device to these versions. If you cannot due to the limitations of the device that you are using, you need to switch the device altogether.
Fix 3: Check the Temperature
As mentioned above, the device works optimally at a temperature range of 0-80 degrees (°C)
If you find out that the device is poorly ventilated and overheated, then the device will malfunction. Place the device in an area with proper ventilation so that the temperature range can be maintained.
Fix 4: Update all the device drivers
This is essential not only for using this network adapter but for the smooth functioning of all the devices connected.
If the device driver is not updated to the latest version, you will not be able to use the network adapter. This adapter specifically is a new version in the market and requires regular updates so, you need to take special care with this one.
One and only solution, update all the device drivers on the regular.
Fix 5: Serious problems with the device
Sometimes, you will encounter issues on your device that are entirely technical. In such cases, do not attempt to solve the problem on your own and take it to a technician who knows exactly what they are doing.
You can also contact Intel support in such situations.
You can access the support for the Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3168 Here
Conclusion
We have made it a point to include all the problems that may be causing the error on your Intel adapter. The solutions have been included after thorough research. However, if you feel at any point that the problem is getting out of your hand, you should always contact an expert.
We hope that this article was of immense help. Keep following for more informational content.
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