Windows 7 - Windows 7 Seeing Ghost Networks

eynestyne · 09-19-2010

Recently I have had a very weird problem. My network adapters (both the built-in and an usb) keep picking up my wireless even when they are not here, I mean even if i plug out the router for hours. Since this problem started I have also had problems connecting at time.

Any ideas as to what the problem is?

alphanumeric · 09-19-2010

Did you change the SSID on the router from its default? Sounds like somebody else with the same make router has the same SSID as you do. You shouldn't be able to connect to the other network though unless somebody forgot to enable encryption and set a password.

eynestyne · 09-19-2010

If I change the SSID the same problem occurs after a few minutes

alphanumeric · 09-20-2010

When you say "plug out the router" what do you mean. If you are just unplugging the WAN network cable that won't fill the wireless signal, it will just kill your INTERNET connection. You have to unplug the power cord to the router to kill the wireless signal.

eynestyne · 09-20-2010

I mean unplug it from the wall outlet. No power, turned off completely.

I am starting to wonder if there is a software problem that is making the software think the network is still there after the power goes

alphanumeric · 09-20-2010

You might want to download and install this utility: inSSIDer Wi-Fi Scanner | MetaGeek
Once you click the scan button it will show you any wifi networks that are in range, their SSID, channel and what encryption they are using. With it running, plug in your router and unplug it again and see what happens.

eynestyne · 09-21-2010

Thanks.
Working on a solution. Will post again after a few days of testing.

Windows 7 - Windows 7 Seeing Ghost Networks

Windows 7 Seeing Ghost Networks problems?