Consider:

• Adapter disabled or flight mode toggled by a function key.
• 5 GHz-only router while the adapter is 2.4 GHz-only (or vice versa).
• Hidden SSID or unusual country/channel settings.
• Outdated Wi-Fi drivers or Windows network stack glitches.
• Distance and interference; walls and appliances matter.

Need help? Check here: /services/house-calls/

What it might be (likely causes)

• Radio disabled or hard-switched
  Laptops often have a physical wireless toggle or a Fn hotkey that kills the radio. Airplane mode also shuts off Wi‑Fi. A quick toggle brings the SSID list back.