Fix Missing Network Adapter Driver (Code 28)

Problem overview

You have no internet connection, and checking Device Manager reveals a “Network Controller” or “Ethernet Controller” listed under Other devices with a yellow exclamation mark. The properties menu shows Error Code 28, indicating that the drivers for this device are not installed.

Common causes

• Performing a clean installation of Windows without a pre-bundled network driver
• Accidental deletion of the network adapter via Device Manager
• Using an outdated Wi-Fi adapter on a newer version of Windows

Solution 1: Identify the hardware ID

Since the adapter is missing a driver, Windows won’t tell you the brand name. You must find it manually.

1. Right-click the Start button and open Device Manager.
2. Right-click the unknown Network Controller and select Properties.
3. Go to the Details tab.
4. Click the Property dropdown menu and select Hardware Ids.
5. Note down the top string of text (e.g., PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2723). The “VEN” (Vendor) and “DEV” (Device) numbers identify the manufacturer (like Intel, Realtek, or Qualcomm).

Solution 2: Download and transfer the driver

1. Using another device with internet access, search the internet for the Hardware ID you found, or go directly to your motherboard/laptop manufacturer’s support page.
2. Download the correct network driver installer.
3. Transfer the file to your PC using a USB flash drive. If using a phone, connect it via USB and set the USB mode to File Transfer.
4. Run the installer on the affected PC and restart.

Solution 3: Use built-in Windows drivers

Sometimes, Windows has a basic driver available but failed to apply it automatically.

1. Right-click the missing adapter in Device Manager and select Update driver.
2. Click Browse my computer for drivers, then Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer.
3. Select Network adapters if prompted.
4. Look for the manufacturer (e.g., Intel) and try selecting a generic Wi-Fi or Ethernet driver.