How to Upgrade Your HP Notebook Wi-Fi Card for 5GHz Support

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If you’re looking to upgrade your laptop’s wireless capabilities, you’ve come to the right place. Many laptops, like the HP Notebook 15-ay079tx, originally support only 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. If you want to access the faster 5 GHz band, you may need to change the wireless card. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to upgrade your wireless card successfully and ensure it’s compatible with your device.

First, let’s discuss the accepted solution. The wireless card you are considering is the Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7260 (Mini PCIe). Before proceeding, it’s essential to verify if this card will work with your laptop, especially considering the BIOS whitelist that HP implements.

Here’s how to move forward with the upgrade:

Check Compatibility: Before buying the Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7260, confirm its compatibility with your HP Notebook. You can look up the laptop’s specifications online or consult the HP support site for a list of approved wireless cards.
Backup Your Data: Always back up important files before making hardware changes. This ensures that your data remains safe in case anything goes wrong during the upgrade process.
Purchase the Card: If the Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7260 is compatible, go ahead and purchase it from a reputable retailer. If not, look for other compatible cards listed on the HP support page, such as the Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3160 or the Intel Wireless-N 7260, ensuring they are on HP’s whitelist.
Gather Tools: You’ll need a few basic tools such as a small Phillips screwdriver, an anti-static wrist strap (optional but recommended), and your new wireless card.
Prepare Your Laptop: Power down your laptop and unplug it. If your model has a removable battery, take that out as well. Ground yourself by touching a metal object to avoid static discharge.
Open the Laptop: Locate the access panel for the wireless card on the bottom of your laptop. Use the screwdriver to remove the screws and lift off the panel carefully.
Remove the Old Card: Locate the existing wireless card. Disconnect any antennas attached to it and unscrew it from its mount. Gently slide the card out of its slot.
Install the New Card: Take your new Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7260 (or another compatible card) and carefully insert it into the slot. Secure it with screws and reattach the antennas.
Close the Laptop: Replace the access panel and screw it back in place. If you removed the battery, reinsert it.
Reconnect and Test: Power up your laptop. Once booted, go to your network settings and verify that the 5 GHz network is now available. You may need to install drivers for your new wireless card, so check the manufacturer’s website if necessary.

By following these steps, you should be able to upgrade your HP Notebook’s wireless capabilities without any issues. Enjoy the benefits of faster internet speeds with your newly installed 5 GHz capable wireless card!