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pci,dell wireless 5540,ethernet controller,network controller

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by CimmerianX

Dani AI

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A few practical steps and checks to get the missing Ethernet/WiFi/PCI drivers working. shows the right symptom list; is correct to warn about untrusted sites, and is right that the Dell support/service-tag route is the preferred start. The single most useful things you can do now are (1) identify the exact OS and architecture you are running and (2) identify the hardware IDs so you can match drivers precisely.

Device identification and download workflow (do these in order)

  • Open Device Manager (devmgmt.msc). For each "Unknown" or yellow-exclamation device: Properties -> Details -> select "Hardware Ids" and copy the VEN_XXXX and DEV_XXXX strings.
  • Use those VEN/DEV IDs to identify the component vendor (component makers are usually Intel, Broadcom/Qualcomm Atheros, Realtek, Broadcom, etc.). Once you know the vendor, get drivers from the component maker or from the Dell support page for your laptop model/service tag. Avoid random driver-aggregator sites; prefer OEM or Microsoft Update Catalog downloads.
  • Install drivers in this order: chipset/INF first (this lets Windows see PCI/USB buses correctly), then wired Ethernet, then wireless/WLAN, then Bluetooth. Reboot between major installs when prompted.

Troubleshooting notes

  • If you have no network on the laptop, download drivers on another PC and transfer them with a USB stick.
  • Check BIOS and any physical wireless switch—some laptops have radio disabled at BIOS or hardware switch.
  • Device Manager error codes help: Code 28 means driver not installed; Code 45 means the device is not present (possible hardware or seating issue).
  • If the card is an aftermarket PCI/mini-PCIe module, confirm compatibility with the laptop.

If these steps do not resolve the problem, report the exact OS and the VEN_/DEV_ strings you found so others can point to the correct vendor driver.

Recommended Answers

All 4 Replies

Member Avatar for JorgeM

Have you checked the Dell Support site? I wouldnt recommend that you download drivers from an untrusted site. That's a great way to get a root kit installed on your system.

Member Avatar for engrsayon

I have neither WiFi nor driver on my PC and I want it installed.

Member Avatar for Tin Ko Ko Htut

I want to know Myanmar Local Internet Service Provider Details List.

Member Avatar for CimmerianX

You need to hit www.dell.com and use the Support link. Your Dell has a service tag # on a sticker, probably on the bottom of the unit. Enter the Tag # and you are given a page with links to all drivers for the OSes that unit supports.

Or, call dell tech support at 1866-516-3115 and have the tech help you out. Just give them that #. They will help you find a driver even if it is out of warranty.

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