However, if you value time over tinkering, replacing the card with an Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX200 is a $25 upgrade that will transform your Windows 11 networking experience. For those determined to keep the 7260 running, follow this guide’s steps, and you will enjoy many more years of stable dual-band Wi-Fi.
Intel has removed official downloads for this discontinued adapter. You must source drivers from manufacturer archives or third-party repositories.
This is widely considered the most stable "final" version for this card. intel dual band wireless-ac 7260 driver windows 11
Open your web browser and navigate to the official Intel Customer Support directory or the Microsoft Update Catalog. Search for the .
: Windows 11 may automatically provide a basic, functional driver through its Optional Updates section in the Settings menu. However, if you value time over tinkering, replacing
. This is the final release that fixed critical bugs involving modern Wi-Fi 6 routers. Intel Community Installation Guide for Windows 11
is considered , and there is no official driver developed specifically for Windows 11. While the hardware is not officially supported on Windows 11, users often successfully use the final released Windows 10 drivers. Critical Driver Information You must source drivers from manufacturer archives or
Do use third-party driver updater tools. Stick to official sources.
If the installer fails to launch, force Windows 11 to run it in a legacy environment.
Disconnect from the internet (to stop Windows from automatically interfering).
The Intel AC 7260 is a combo card. The Wi-Fi chip and the Bluetooth chip operate as two separate devices inside Windows 11. If your Bluetooth is not working: Open and expand Bluetooth . Look for Intel(R) Wireless Bluetooth(R) .