Updated Dell Wireless 1505 Draft 802.11n WLAN Mini-Card Worse Connect

MrJFrederick · 15 Dec 2012

I currently use drivers from 2008:

Driver Version 4.176.75.21 - 10/1/2008

for my Dell Wireless 1505 Draft 802.11n WLAN Mini-Card.

Whenever I run Microsoft Update it tells me to upgrade to the latest drivers, however, with the newest drivers I experience a SIGNIFICANT drop in throughput- something like from 108 mbps with my current setup to 1-15 mbps with the "updated" drivers.

I'd like to have the most up to date driver, but do not want to limit my Wifi bandwidth either. Any advice would be greatly appreciated-- all my system info *should* be in my profile.

PS I'm a brand new user, so I apologize if this is not a well written post!

Petey7 · 16 Dec 2012

If the new driver causes problems and the old one works fine, best to just stick with the old driver. Typically you only need to update your drivers if you are experiencing problems or the new driver adds some functionality. Otherwise it is better to just leave well enough alone. If is listed as an important update, right-click the update and hide it.

If you are set on updating, you can try downloading the driver from the Dell website (link below) and uninstalling the old driver prior to installing the new driver. You can also look at the fixes and enhancements listed on the Dell site to determine if you really need it.

Driver Details | Dell United States

MrJFrederick · 16 Dec 2012

Ok-- thanks for the quick response!! I will try again... thru dell and roll back and see what happens.

Still seems strange that a newer/updated version recommended in Microsoft Update/ DELL would actually be WORSE...

If I DO get worse signal/bandwidth again after using the latest from DELL-- is it worth it/possible that I would need to to "driversweep" /delete all the drivers so that there aren't any traces of old drivers before I continue?

Petey7 · 16 Dec 2012

People sometimes have varying results when it comes to updating drivers.

The only driver that would need to be deleted is the one for your wifi card. You can do this by opening device manager, locating your wifi card, right-clinking, and selecting uninstall.