Why is the Microsoft virtual mini port adapter not connected.

My HP Compaq Notebook runs on Windows 7. The Device Manager shows two network adapters, one being Broadcom 4313 802.11b/g/n and the other being a Microsoft virtual WiFi miniport adapter.
When I look at HP Support Assistant it indicates that the Microsoft adapter is not connected. I do not know if this information is or is not correct, but if it is could somebody kindly tell me :
a) Can two network adapters be operative at the same time and if they can would the Notebook work any better?
b) If the answers to (a) is yes how do I go about connecting the miniport adapter?
c) If the answer to (a) is no does it matter which of the adapters is connected?
Thank you.

Many thanks maxie. I now understand.