Windows 7 Automatically Installs Some NETGEAR Adapters
NETGEAR Support
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Windows 7 automatically installs some NETGEAR adapters without prompting you. This occurs because Windows 7 has some adapter drivers built-in; the automatic installation of these drivers is an expected function. This happens when :
- A supported adapter is inserted into a laptop or PC.
- A laptop or PC with a supported adapter already installed boots up.
Help and Reminders:
- Microsoft Windows 7 drivers are part of Windows 7 operating system. NETGEAR does not have access to the drivers and can not support them.
- To download official NETGEAR drivers or software, please visit this link: NETGEAR Download Center
- To find help for issues with Microsoft Windows 7 drivers, please visit this link: Windows Compatibility Center
When Windows 7 detects an adapter, you will see the following message in the status bar:
It might take several seconds for Windows to install the driver software. Once the device driver has been successfully installed, Windows displays a message such as the following:
For some adapters, Windows displays the chip vendor name instead of NETGEAR. This is not an error, and the device should still function as expected.
Once the device has been installed, click the wireless icon in the Windows menu bar. You should now be able to see available networks in the Wireless Network Connection list.
Last Updated:11/28/2016 | Article ID: 12286
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