Your wireless car has begun to show wear, so now you’re looking to upgrade. This component is known to be difficult to replace, especially on laptops. Before attempting this process, be sure you do extra research on your particular model. Some models are built to where you can’t replace the wireless card. You may also need extra told and supplies, like tweezers. Finally, make sure the new wireless card is compatible with your operating system.

Removing the Wireless Card

The arrangement of components could vary on a laptop. You’ll first start with turning off and unplugging the device, then following these steps:


  • Remove the bottom case by loosening the screws holding it down with a screwdriver. Locate your wireless card.
  • You should take a picture of the wireless card, and then unplug the cables from it.
  • Unscrew the screw and gently remove the component.

Adding the New Wireless Card

Putting the new card in your laptop is like following the previous instructions, but backward. Here’s how you do it:

  • Carefully place the new wireless card in the new empty slot. Put the screw where it belongs and tighten it.
  • Look at the picture you took to help you properly connect the wires in the right place. In case the new wireless card is different from the previous one, check the manual it came with for assurance.
  • Screw the bottom laptop case back on and plug it in. When you turn on your laptop, you can begin installing the software.

With a Windows operating system, the software will most likely install easily. In certain other cases, or with different operating systems, you may have to do a bit more before your Wi-Fi is up and ready for use. The method described above applies to laptops, so the process for removing a wireless card from a desktop computer will be different. Try to learn as much about Wi-Fi cards as you can before replacing the one in your laptop. See what model of computer you have, the type of Wi-Fi, what is and isn’t compatible, and so on. If you are having trouble with your Wi-Fi, then see if you really need to have the card changed or if the tape holding the ire just got loose. Though the task isn’t too difficult, you must still try to be careful while completing it.