THE SHORT ANSWER

If your computer can see other Wi-Fi networks but not yours, check whether your router is broadcasting the Wi-Fi name, whether the computer supports the band being used, and whether your network is hidden, merged or on an unsupported channel.

Do not reset the computer or router first. The fact that other networks appear is useful: the computer's Wi-Fi is at least partly working.

Seeing other networks is actually good news

It means the computer's Wi-Fi radio is alive. The problem is probably more specific: your home network name is hidden, too far away, on a band the computer dislikes, or temporarily not broadcasting.

This is why the fix is different from a computer that sees no Wi-Fi networks at all.

Quick diagnosis table

What you seeLikely causeTry first
Other networks appear, yours does notRouter broadcast, hidden SSID, band or channel issueCheck router Wi-Fi name and band settings
Phone can see your Wi-Fi beside the computerComputer adapter or compatibility issueUpdate adapter driver and test 2.4GHz
Computer sees 2.4GHz but not 5GHz5GHz support or channel issueCheck adapter support and router channel
No devices see your Wi-Fi nameRouter Wi-Fi broadcast is offRestart router and check Wi-Fi settings

Try these fixes in order

Follow the clues in order. You want to know whether the missing network is missing for one computer or for everyone.

  1. 01

    Check if your phone sees the network

    Stand next to the computer and check your phone. If the phone sees your Wi-Fi but the computer does not, focus on the computer.

  2. 02

    Move closer to the router

    If the network appears close to the router, the original spot has a range or wall problem.

  3. 03

    Restart the router normally

    A normal restart can bring back a missing Wi-Fi broadcast without erasing your settings.

  4. 04

    Check whether the network name is hidden

    Hidden networks do not appear normally. If SSID broadcast is off, turn it back on unless you have a specific reason to hide it.

  5. 05

    Check 2.4GHz and 5GHz names

    Older computers may not see 5GHz or may not support every 5GHz channel. Test 2.4GHz if available.

  6. 06

    Update the Wi-Fi adapter driver

    On Windows especially, an outdated driver can stop one network from appearing while other networks still show.

Mistakes to avoid

Do not assume the password is wrong if the network name does not appear at all.

Do not factory reset before checking hidden SSID, separate bands and router Wi-Fi broadcast.

FAQ

Why can my computer see other Wi-Fi networks but not mine?

Usually because your home Wi-Fi is hidden, out of range, using an unsupported band or channel, not broadcasting, or your computer adapter needs an update.

Can an old computer miss 5GHz Wi-Fi?

Yes. Some older adapters only support 2.4GHz or have limited 5GHz channel support.

Should I hide my Wi-Fi name?

For most homes, hiding the Wi-Fi name creates more connection problems than benefits.

Why does my phone see Wi-Fi but my computer does not?

The phone may support newer Wi-Fi bands or have a stronger adapter. Check the computer driver and band support.

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