Some Surfaces unable to connect to 5GHz networks following recent update

Surface Laptop 2
Surface Laptop 2 (Image credit: Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • Some Surface users can't connect to 5GHz networks following a recent update.
  • The Surface Laptop, Surface Book, and Surface Pro 5th Gen seem to be affected by the issue.
  • The update that seems to have caused the issue was supposed to improve Wi-Fi.

Several Surface users have reported that they can no longer connect to 5GHz networks following a recent update. Users on a Microsoft Answers forum and a Reddit thread say they've run into the issue (via Windows Latest). The Surface Laptop, Surface Book, and Surface Pro 5th Gen are reportedly affected.

According to both posts, a user updated their Wi-Fi driver to "Marvell Semiconductor, Inc. – Net – 15.68.17013.110." Following the update, they couldn't connect to 5GHz networks on their Surface Book. Uninstalling the driver seemed to fix the issue and reinstalling the update seems to cause it again. Other users have chimed in saying they face the same issue on their Surface devices, including the Surface Laptop, Surface Book, and Surface Pro 5th Gen.

The extent of the issue is not yet determined. It seems to only affect a subset of Surface users, even on affected devices. Microsoft has not issued a response to the issue at time of publication.

Our favorite Surface accessories from Microsoft

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Surface Precision Mouse ($77 at Amazon)

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Every Surface owner needs this Pen. Period. It supports 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt support for shading density, and enjoys supremely low latency. When paired with a Surface PC, the potential is endless. And it comes in a bunch of cool colors.

Surface Dock ($136 at Amazon)

With two Mini DisplayPorts, four USB-A 3.0 ports, an Ethernet port, and a 3.5mm audio jack, this dock gives you the ports you need to stay connected to all your favorite devices. Plus, it easily turns your Surface into a desktop power hub. We highly recommend it.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.