How To Fix Windows Error Code 31 Network Adapter

Last updated on February 8th, 2024 at 11:02 pm

Windows Error code 31 network adapter issue can occur on systems running Windows versions 11, 10, 8, or 7. It can occur when you have an issue with the drivers of the network adapter installed on your PC that prevents you from successfully connecting to the Internet. So, if you are facing this issue, you do not need to worry as in this guide, we will show you some troubleshooting methods you can try to resolve this issue.

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What is Network Error Code 31?

Windows detects problems with the drivers associated with your network adapter when it encounters Error Code 31. In many cases, the error message reads, “Windows cannot load the drivers for this device, so it isn’t working properly.” There are a number of reasons why this error happens, including corrupted or outdated drivers, conflicts with other software or hardware, or even errors with the registry.

How to Identify Symptoms

Error Code 31 may have a variety of symptoms, so it’s crucial to identify them before trying to figure out what must be done. Here are a few common signs:

Connectivity issues.
There is no or limited network connectivity.
Afterward, on Device Manager, there is a yellow exclamation mark next to the network adapter.
Driver errors.

You may be experiencing network connectivity problems due to Error Code 31 if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.

How To Fix Windows Error Code 31 Network Adapter

There are a number of reasons why Windows cannot load the driver for a particular hardware device. There is little you need to do to troubleshoot the Windows error Code 31 network adapter issue, regardless of its root cause. So, let’s check out the troubleshooting steps:

Fix 1: Restart Your Computer

Occasionally, this error is caused by a temporary hardware issue, so restarting your computer can sometimes fix it. Also, you can try reconnecting your hardware device to your computer and then restarting your computer again if the hardware is having a driver issue.

Fix 2: Uninstall the Problematic Windows Drivers

If you uninstall the problematic drivers, you will quickly fix the Windows Error Code 31 issue. To uninstall Windows drivers, follow these steps:

At the beginning, press Win+R to open the Run box.
There, type “devmgmt.msc.”
Then press Enter or OK.
In the next few seconds, a pop-up window will appear.
Examine each category to see if there are any yellow error signs on any devices.
When you find an error device, right-click it.
To uninstall, click Uninstall.
If you have just uninstalled the program, restart your computer.
That’s it, you’re done.

Fix 3: Delete Invalid Registry Keys

Windows error code 31 network adapter can also be caused by invalid or damaged registry keys. If you have invalid registry keys, you should remove them. Here are the steps you need to take.

In order to launch Run, press Windows + R at the same time.
Enter regedit in the Run command box.
Now, hover over the following key in the Registry Editor window: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Network\
Right-click on the Config value and select Delete.
Close the Registry Editor.
Make sure your computer is rebooted.

Fix 4: Run Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter

Here are the steps you can take to resolve the issue by running Hardware and Devices troubleshooter.

You can search the taskbar for Command Prompt, then choose Run as an Administrator.
Then type msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic and press Enter.
You will now see the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter. To begin, click Next and follow the instructions.

Fix 5: Scan for Malware

There can also be malware infections causing driver conflicts with network adapter drivers, leading to Error Code 31. Ensure that your computer is malware-free by scanning it thoroughly with reputable antivirus software. Your computer should be quarantined or removed from any detected threats and restarted.

Fix 6: Run the Sfc /scannow

Windows error Code 31 network adapter can be quickly resolved with an SFC (System File Checker) scan. Thus, in order to run an SFC scan, follow these steps:

Open the Start menu.
Find and open the Command Prompt.
Type sfc/scannow in the Command Prompt. You can then press Enter.
Let the scan finish.
Once the scan is complete, close the Command Prompt.

Fix 7: Update your PC

It is important to check for Windows updates from Microsoft if you are experiencing Windows error code 31 network adapter issues. Therefore, to check for Windows updates, follow these steps.

At the beginning, to open the Settings app, press the Windows key + I.
Now, tap on Windows Update.
Finally, tap on the Check For Update button.

Fix 8: Perform a Clean Boot

Occasionally, Error Code 31 is caused by conflicts between third-party software and services. To isolate the problem, perform a clean boot:

Firstly, to open the Run dialog box, press Win + R.
Enter msconfig into the search box.
Afterwards, navigate to the Services tab in System Configuration.
To avoid disabling essential services, select Hide all Microsoft services.
To disable non-Microsoft services, click Disable All.
Select Open Task Manager from the Startup tab.
Turn off all startup items.
In the System Configuration window, close Task Manager and click OK.
You need to restart your computer.
You should check whether the error persists. In case that does not happen, enable services and startup items one by one until the culprit is identified.

Fix 9: Contact Support

If the Windows error code 31 network adapter persists after trying all the troubleshooting steps, it may be necessary to contact Windows support. Thus, if you need help or guidance resolving this error, the Microsoft support team is available to help. Therefore, to resolve the issue, you can contact them by phone, email, or chat.

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So, that’s all we have for you on how to resolve the Windows Error code 31 network adapter issue. It’s our hope that this guide has helped you. But feel free to comment below if you have any doubts or queries.

How To Fix Windows Error Code 31 Network Adapter

What is Network Error Code 31?

How to Identify Symptoms