How to Reset a Ralink Wireless Adapter

Since a wireless adapter does not have a reset button that can be pressed like other wireless modems or routers you must go through the operating system to reset the device. A Ralink wireless adapter connects to the USB port of your computer and receives the signal being transmitted from your wireless provider. Resetting the USB adapter takes a few minutes and is a basic troubleshooting step if you are having issues with your wireless network.

Instructions

1. Navigate to the start menu and access your control panel. Type "adapter" into your search box if using Windows Vista or Windows 7. Access the "Network and sharing Center" and click "View network connections."

2. Right click on the Ralink wireless adapter using your mouse and click "Disable." Wait approximately 15 seconds. Waiting a few seconds allows you to ensure the wireless adapter has completely reset.

3. Unplug the wireless adapter from the USB port. Though not necessary, unplugging the wireless adapter from the USB port ensures that the device has temporarily lost its power so it can refresh once is reconnected to the USB port. Connect the USB wireless adapter back to the USB port.

4. Right-click the wireless adapter per your computer and click "Enable." Attempt to access the Internet.

References

• Ralink: USB Products
• Microsoft: Troubleshoot wireless network