In the intricate tapestry of Windows features, the Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter shines as a testament to technological innovation. Serving as a bridge, it empowers PCs running on Windows 10 and 11 to form seamless connections with other wireless devices over a network. The linchpin behind the “Project to This PC” feature, Wi-Fi Direct plays a pivotal role in mirroring other devices onto your computer, wirelessly.
But what truly elevates this feature is its ability to virtualize your wireless network adapter, drawing parallels to what renowned platforms like VMware and VirtualBox achieve. With this virtualization, the realm of possibilities expands, allowing a single physical wireless adapter to branch out into dual virtual entities. The outcome? An enhanced flexibility where one virtual adapter can latch onto your conventional wireless network, while the other can tether to a different network, such as a WiFi hotspot. A significant perk that emanates from this is the capability for other devices to establish a wireless connection with your Windows machine, treating it as a veritable access point.
However, every feature, no matter how robust, isn’t universally requisite. Some users may find they seldom utilize the Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter. Others might discover that it throws a wrench in their connectivity endeavors, causing hiccups with external routers or modems. Additionally, for those who prefer a decluttered Device Manager, this adapter might seem superfluous. If any of these scenarios resonate with you, and you’re contemplating disabling or completely excising the Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter from your system, then you’re in the right place. This risewindows guide endeavors to provide a step-by-step breakdown of the process, ensuring your Windows experience remains tailored to your unique needs.
How to Get a List of Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapters on Windows 11 or 10 using PowerShell?
In some Windows machines, Device Manager may show several virtual adapters with an index as Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter, Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter #2, Microsoft WiFi Direct Virtual Adapter #3, and so on.
If you want to see a list of Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapters on your system, use these steps:-
Step 1. First, open Windows PowerShell.
Step 2. Now, type the following and hit Enter key on the keyboard:-
Get-NetAdapter -InterfaceDescription "Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual*" -IncludeHidden
After that, in the output, you’ll see the Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter with several pieces of information incorporated, including the connection status and MAC address.
How to View a List of Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapters on Windows 11 or 10 through Device Manager?
Follow these steps to see the list of Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapters on Windows 11 or 10 using Device Manager:-
Step 1. First, open Device Manager.
Step 2. Unused or disconnected devices remain hidden on the Device Manager by default, and you need to unhide them first. For that, click on the View tab in the menu and check the Show hidden devices option.
Step 3. Next, expand the “Network adapters” to view all Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapters on your computer.
How to Disable or Remove Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter using Device Manager?
Here is how to disable or remove Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter from Device Manager:-
Step 1. First, open Device Manager.
Step 2. Now, click on the View tab in the menu and check the Show hidden devices option.
Step 3. Then, expand the “Network adapters” to view all Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapters on your computer.
Step 4. After that, right-click on the Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter entry and select Disable device option in the menu.
Step 5. Finally, click the Yes button when prompted.
You must repeat the above steps if you want to disable more adapters.
Whenever you want to enable the Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter device again, repeat the steps above, right-click on an entry that is disabled, and select the Enable device option.
Conclusion
Managing the Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter is a testament to how customizable Windows 10 and 11 are, allowing users to tweak features to their preferences. While the feature holds immense value for those seeking to streamline wireless connections between devices, it’s not essential for every user. Whether you’re aiming to declutter your Device Manager or troubleshoot connectivity issues, understanding how to manage this adapter empowers you to tailor your Windows experience further.
