Windows 8.1 wifi driver problem

Question

Windows 8.1 wifi driver problem

I am trying to install Windows 8.1 Pro (retail version) on a brand new Macbook Air using Bootcamp. I updated OSX including the latest firmware update then I created the USB flash drive media (no ISO) following the instructions at

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/upgrade-product-key-only

Everything went well except that I cannot establish any wifi connection from Windows. It seems that for some reason Bootcamp installs the wrong wifi chip drivers. I have run again the Windows support software setup from the USB disk, same problem.

Any suggestions?

MacBook Air

Posted on Dec 18, 2013 10:32 AM

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Answer 1

mvest20

Level 1

115 points

Dec 18, 2013 12:01 PM in response to dudesinmexico

That is the correct controller.

I don't think those a/b/g drivers will work; it needs to the a/c driver. Is there another section for Broadcom? I seem to recall seeing two different sections for Broadcom drivers, but I can't remember what the title of the second section was called. They were right next to each other in the list though.

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Answer 2

Loner T

Level 9

59,536 points

Jan 6, 2016 4:32 AM in response to Wendy.57

You can check the BC driver packages in Install Windows 7 and earlier on your Mac using Boot Camp - Apple Support (these also support W8.1) and check if you have the correct version of BC driver package.

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Answer 3

mvest20

Level 1

115 points

Dec 18, 2013 11:18 AM in response to dudesinmexico

For some reason the Apple Support software doesn't include the correct driver, but it is already in Windows. you have to enable the driver in Device Manager. It is the Broadcom ac driver. To accomplish this, hit the Windows (command) button, then type device manager. In the list, find your network connection, then right-click it and choose properties. From the driver tab, find the Broadcom a/c driver and use that driver. It will give an error, but use the driver anyway, and then wireless will be completely functional in Windows.

Good luck!

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Answer 4

Dec 18, 2013 11:57 AM in response to mvest20

In Device Manager I see Other devices-> Network Controller. Is that the wifi contoller?

If I select it and bring up the Update Driver Software dialog I see under "Network Adapter" -> Manufacturer = Broadcom -> Broadcom 4321AG 802.11a/b/g/... and

Broadcom 4322AG 802.11a/b/g/

should I select one of these?

Thanks!

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Answer 5

Dec 18, 2013 12:09 PM in response to mvest20

Got it! the a/c driver made it work.

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Answer 6

Wendy.57

Level 1

0 points

Jan 5, 2016 10:11 PM in response to mvest20

I am having the same issue although i am unable to find the a/c driver in either broadcom folders only a/b/g is available is there another place it may be

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