Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsWindows 11 casting uses Miracast. Press Windows + K and select the TV, projector, wireless adapter, or receiving PC from Available devices. If nothing appears, check Miracast support, Wi-Fi, the receiving device’s setup, and the saved pairing before trying more advanced fixes.
1. Check what you are casting to
A TV, projector, or monitor must support Miracast to connect directly from Windows 11. A display that only supports Chromecast, AirPlay, or a manufacturer-specific casting method will not appear in the Windows 11 Miracast list. In that case, connect a Miracast adapter or dongle to the display’s HDMI port.
Windows 11 can also cast to another Windows PC, but the receiving PC needs Microsoft’s current Wireless Display feature and app. On Windows 11 version 22H2 and later, use Wireless Display; instructions telling current Windows 11 users to launch the old Connect app are outdated.
2. Confirm that the sending PC supports Miracast
On the Windows 11 PC you want to cast from, press Windows + K. If the computer supports Miracast, Windows should open the casting panel and list available devices. If Windows says that an external display must be connected with a cable, the PC does not support wireless display casting through Miracast.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- Wirelessly display content from a phone, tablet, or laptop onto a bigger screen with the ScreenCast 4K Wireless Display Adapter. Note: Please use this wireless display adapter in the same room to prevent signal obstruction by walls. Wireless transmission distance of up to 50 ft./15m in an open environment
- With its support of multiple wireless display standards (Miracast, AirPlay, and Chromecast), this wireless display adapter is compatible with devices and TVs you already own, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android and other cast compatible laptops, tablets, and mobile phones.
- Featuring customizable background and PIN code functions, this allows you to establish your visual style that leaves a lasting impression and ensures a secure presentation experience. Please note that the PIN code function is exclusive to Miracast. If these two functions are not visible in the Settings Menu, please upgrade to the latest firmware.
- In addition to its compact design, the ScreenCast 4K Wireless Display Adapter features an external antenna for enhanced signal coverage, making it perfect for home, office, and travel.
- Just plug in the adapter, power, and connect to the ScreenCast 4K to start Miracast casting. AirPlay and Google Cast (Chromecast) require Wi-Fi configuration. Please follow the setup instructions in the manual.
That is a hardware or driver capability limitation, not a missing Windows setting. Use an HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C video connection instead, or use a different Miracast-capable computer or adapter.
3. Turn on Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi must be enabled on the Windows 11 sending PC, even if you normally use an Ethernet cable. To check it:
- Select the Network, Sound, or Battery icon on the right side of the taskbar.
- In the flyout, verify that Wi-Fi is turned on.
- Press Windows + K again and check the device list.
Microsoft’s current instructions require Wi-Fi to be enabled, but they do not say that the PC and display must be connected to the same conventional Wi-Fi network. Miracast creates a direct wireless display connection, so do not assume that changing router bands or joining the same network will fix every failed connection.
4. Set up another Windows PC as the receiver
If the target is a second Windows 11 computer, complete these steps on that receiving PC.
Install Wireless Display
- Open Start > Settings > System > Projecting to this PC.
- Under Add the “Wireless Display” optional feature to project to this PC, select Optional features.
- Next to Add an optional feature, select View features.
- Enter
wireless displayin the search box. - Select the checkbox for Wireless Display, then select Next.
- Select Install and wait for the feature to finish installing.
Launch the receiver
After installation, search the taskbar for wireless display and select Wireless Display. Leave the app open while connecting from the other computer. The receiving PC needs both the optional feature and the launched app to be discoverable.
Return to Settings > System > Projecting to this PC and review the discovery settings on that page. If the PC is configured not to be discoverable, the sender will not list it.
5. Connect from the Windows 11 sender
The quickest method is:
- Press Windows + K.
- Wait for Available devices to load.
- Select the TV, adapter, projector, or receiving PC.
- Approve any connection prompt shown on the receiving device.
You can also use Windows Search. Search for Cast, select Connect to a wireless display, and then, on the Display settings page under Multiple displays, select Connect to a wireless display followed by Connect.
Rank #2
- Seamless HD Wireless Streaming: Experience crisp, high-definition visuals with our wireless HDMI display dongle adapter, supporting 4K and delivers an impressive 1080P/60Hz Full HD output.
- Plug & Play: No apps, no Bluetooth, no Wifi required, one-click to mirror the screen of mobile phones or laptops to a big screen, with support for privacy mode and one-click disconnect. The Wireless Display Adapter can easily switch between landscape and portrait mode to enhance your viewing experience
- Stable Transmission, Low Latency: Featuring 2.4/5GHz dual-band high-speed antennas, the wireless HDMI display adapter ensures stable transmission and high-quality video decoding. It boasts a transmission distance of up to 16 feet/5 meters and an impressively low latency of only 100ms.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: This portable Wireless HDMI Dongle Adapter supports Airplay for Apple IOS and MAC systems and Miracast for Android and Windows systems. Its powerful Integrated chipset ensures compatibility with a wide range of HDMI output devices. Easily switch between landscape and portrait modes for a versatile viewing experience. It's perfect choice for conference rooms, home entertainment, and multimedia education
- App Limitations: Please be aware that certain apps with "HDCP" protocol, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Videos, Hulu, Comcast TV, Xfinity, Vudu, Sky Go, BT Sport, may not be supported due to copyright protection.
6. Choose the correct projection mode
A successful connection does not automatically mean that Windows will mirror the laptop screen. Press Windows + P and select the mode you need:
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
| Mode | Result |
|---|---|
| PC screen only | Uses only the Windows 11 computer screen. |
| Duplicate | Shows the same image on the PC and wireless display. |
| Extend | Creates a larger desktop across both screens. |
| Second screen only | Uses the wireless display and turns off the PC’s screen. |
7. Fix the common “device does not appear” problem
If the target is missing from the Windows + K list, check these items in order:
- Confirm Wi-Fi is turned on at the sending PC.
- Confirm the target supports Miracast. A non-Miracast TV needs a Miracast adapter.
- If the target is another PC, install the Wireless Display optional feature.
- Launch the Wireless Display app on the receiving PC.
- Check the receiving PC’s discovery settings at Settings > System > Projecting to this PC.
- Move the sender closer to the display or adapter and retry.
- Restart both devices and attempt the connection again.
For a Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter, keep the adapter within 23 feet (7 meters) of the second display. Move it away from microwave ovens, cordless phones, and other sources of radio-frequency interference.
8. Remove the saved device and pair it again
A failed or partially completed pairing can prevent a device from reconnecting. Remove the saved wireless display from Windows 11:
- Open Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Devices.
- Find the display or adapter under Wireless displays & docks.
- Select it and choose Remove device.
- Press Windows + K and select the display again.
For a Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter, the alternative re-pairing path is Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices. Under Wireless displays & docks, select the adapter, choose More options > Remove device, then select Add device > Wireless display or dock.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →9. Troubleshoot a Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter
Check power
The adapter needs USB power. For the most stable connection, Microsoft recommends a USB charging port connected directly to a wall outlet and supplying at least 5 W (5 V/1 A). A weak USB port can cause intermittent connections or prevent the adapter from starting correctly.
Enable 2.4 GHz during pairing
The Microsoft adapter supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, but Microsoft says 2.4 GHz must be enabled on the device during pairing. If pairing fails, search Windows for device manager, select Device Manager, and inspect the wireless adapter settings supplied by the computer manufacturer.
Rank #3
- 1080P Wireless display: SmartSee Wireless display adapter can mirror the screen of phone, tablet, laptop, pc to your TV/projector/monitor wirelessly. Share photos, movies(unencrypted only), files to a big screen easily, up to 1080P resolution. What shows on your phone, tablet, laptop, pc can show up on another big display. Cast a small screen to a large one. Make your TV a smart TV.
- Easy to use: No App or drivers required. 3 steps to enjoy media on large screen: Plug->Connect->Mirroring: Plug the dongle into the HD port of your TV, projector, or monitor>Power it using the included USB WiFi antenna>Switch your TV to the correct HD channel. The Anycast UI will show up, recognize your IP address and match your local language automatically. > Connect your device with the Anycast dongle. Connection steps differ by systems, follow the User Manual based on your device type.
- Compatibility(Multi-Platform Support) and Limitation: Support Macbook series, iOS 9.0+, Android 5.0+, Windows 10 devices through Airplay, Miracast, DLNA. Notes: 1. NOT supports for Google Pixel or Motorola. 2. Android and Windows devices must support Miracast for screen mirroring to work. 3. Not compatible with the encrypted apps, such as Netflix/ Amazon Video/ HBO go/ Hulu Plus sky go/DIRECTV etc.
- Wide Usage Scenarios (Professional & Everyday Use): Business & Office-Mirroring screen to projector, share PPT, mail, documents and other content wirelessly. Education & Training-Mirroring screen to big screen, share teaching content, classroom teaching, live demos, and workshops wirelessly. Home Entertainment- Watch with your family at home. Mirroring screen to TV, share photos, movies(unencrypted only) wirelessly. Travel & Mobile Work- Carry it while travelling, share your phone to TV anytime. Retail & Exhibitions-Product demos, promotional files, and catalogs. etc.
- Usage Notes & Practical Tips: Anycast dongle is built-in 2 Modes-AirPlay Mode: For all iOS devices; Miracast Mode: For Android and Windows devices. A built-in mode switch button allows switching between AirPlay Mode (iOS) and Miracast Mode (Android & Windows) to match your device system. Press and hold the button for 3-5 seconds to restart the dongle(resolves most connection issues). Note: Always ensure the display is set to the correct HD input. Detailed connection please check the detailed description below or the User Manual according to your device system.
Reset the adapter
- Disconnect the Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter from the second display.
- Hold the adapter’s reset button for 10 seconds, until the LED blinks.
- Reconnect it to the display.
- Wait for Ready to connect to appear.
- Open the taskbar network control, select Cast, and select the adapter’s name.
The adapter can connect to only one display at a time. Disconnect any existing display session before trying to use it with another screen.
Check for a proxy
Microsoft states that its Wireless Display Adapter will not work when a proxy server is being used to access the internet. If this is a managed work computer, ask the administrator whether a proxy is configured before changing network settings.
10. Allow Wireless Display through Windows Firewall
Firewall rules can block the Wireless Display component even when the hardware and Wi-Fi connection are working.
- Search the taskbar for allow firewall.
- Select Allow an app through Windows Firewall.
- Find Wireless Display under Name.
- Enable both the Private and Public checkboxes.
- Select OK, then retry the cast.
Only change firewall permissions if the Wireless Display entry is present and the connection is being blocked. Do not disable the entire Windows Firewall as a general troubleshooting step.
11. Install Windows, display, and wireless updates
Install current updates on the Windows 11 computer before spending time on repeated pairing attempts. Open Start > Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.
Also update the computer’s display and wireless network drivers. The latest versions may come from the PC manufacturer rather than Windows Update. If you are using an external wireless display adapter, check for firmware updates from its manufacturer as well.
Recommended Free Tools
12. Fix sound that remains on the PC
Video can appear on the television while audio continues through the laptop speakers. Change the output device:
Rank #4
- Seamless HSeamless HD Wireless Streaming: immersive visuals with our wireless HDMI display dongle adapter, supporting 4K and delivers an impressive 1080P/60Hz Full HD output.
- Plug & Play: No apps, no Bluetooth, no Wifi required, one-click to mirror the screen of mobile phones or laptops to a big screen, with support for privacy mode and one-click disconnect. You can easily switch between landscape and portrait mode.
- Stable Transmission, Low Latency: Featuring 2.4+5GHz dual-band antennas, the wireless HDMI display adapter ensures stable transmission and video decoding. It boasts a transmission distance of up to 16 feet/5 meters and an low latency of only 100ms.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: This portable Wireless HDMI Dongle Adapter supports Airplay for Apple IOS and MAC systems and Miracast for Android and Windows systems. Its Integrated chipset ensures compatibility with a range of HDMI output devices.
- App Limitations: Please be aware that certain apps with "HDCP" protocol, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Videos, Hulu, Comcast TV, Xfinity, Vudu, Sky Go, BT Sport, may not be supported due to copyright protection.
- Open Windows Search and enter sound.
- Select Sound settings.
- Under Choose where to play sound, select the wireless display or its speakers.
If the display has no speakers, audio may need to remain on the Windows PC or use a separate audio device.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.13. Correct a cropped or incorrectly scaled image
If the picture is stretched, cropped, or does not fill the screen correctly, search for screen resolution and select Change resolution of the display. Choose the resolution marked Recommended, then select Apply.
When using a Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter, open the Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter app and choose Personalization > Fit to Display. Adjust the slider until the complete Windows desktop is visible.
Resolution also depends on the receiving display. A display below 1080p causes the connected device to default to that display’s resolution. Only Microsoft’s 4K Wireless Display Adapter supports 4K, and the second display must support at least 3840 × 2160.
A hardware conversion can create another problem: Microsoft warns that an HDMI-to-VGA converter reduces video-output signal strength and may distort the image. Use a direct HDMI connection or a suitable powered converter where possible.
14. Fix Swift Pair notifications for the 4K adapter
If a Microsoft 4K Wireless Display Adapter does not appear through Swift Pair, open Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices and turn on Show notifications to connect using Swift Pair. Then install updates through Start > Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.
What not to try first
Current Microsoft Windows 11 guidance does not specify a command-line repair procedure for Miracast casting. It uses Settings pages, Windows Search, keyboard shortcuts, Device Manager, firewall controls, updates, restarting, and removing and re-pairing the display. Commands such as netsh, DISM, and sfc are not part of that cited procedure, so they should not be presented as Microsoft’s standard fix for this problem.
Best Value
- PLUG & PLAY: AIMIBO Wireless Display Adapter instantly mirrors screens from iOS/Mac/Android/Windows—no apps, WiFi or Bluetooth needed. Just plug in HDMI + power to mirror your phone/laptop to big screen
- DUAL MODES - DIRECT & DLNA: Tap Screen Mirror to mirror instantly from AIMIBO Miracast dongle, or switch to WiFi-based DLNA for flexible mirroring. Switch modes on the wireless HDMI adapter to mirror screens seamlessly
- 4K ULTRA HD & DUAL-BAND 2.4G/5G: 4K screen mirroring smoothly via 2.4G/5G auto-switching. Ideal for business presentations, classroom lectures, and photo sharing within a 65 ft range.
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: Works with iPhone, iPad, Android phones & tablets, Windows laptops, and Macs. Supports AirPlay, Miracast, DLNA — plug into any HDMI TV, monitor, or projector, zero software needed.
- MIRROR & EXTEND MODES: Mirror Mode instantly mirrors your phone/tablet/laptop to big screen (for presentations, spreadsheets, and photos). Or extend your display—view content while working or gaming on your phone
If the computer is still running Windows 10, note that Microsoft ended support on October 14, 2025. Microsoft no longer provides free Windows Update software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes for that version.
FAQ
Why does my TV not appear when I press Windows + K?
The TV may not support Miracast, Wi-Fi may be disabled on the Windows 11 PC, or the TV may need to be switched to its wireless display input. A non-Miracast TV requires a Miracast adapter connected to HDMI.
Do my Windows 11 PC and TV have to use the same Wi-Fi network?
Microsoft requires Wi-Fi to be enabled on the Windows 11 PC but does not state that both devices must be connected to the same conventional Wi-Fi network. Miracast uses a direct wireless display connection.
How do I cast Windows 11 to another Windows PC?
On the receiving PC, install the Wireless Display optional feature at Settings > System > Projecting to this PC > Optional features > View features. Install and launch Wireless Display, then press Windows + K on the sending PC and select the receiving computer.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Why does Windows say I need to connect an external display with a cable?
That message indicates that the PC does not support Miracast. Use a cable or a different Miracast-capable computer or adapter.
Why is there no sound on the TV after casting?
Open Search, enter sound, select Sound settings, and under Choose where to play sound select the wireless display or its speakers.
How do I reset a Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter?
Disconnect it from the display, hold its reset button for 10 seconds until the LED blinks, reconnect it, wait for Ready to connect, then open the taskbar network control, choose Cast, and select the adapter.
The Bottom Line
Start with Windows + K, Wi-Fi enabled, and Miracast compatibility. For a Windows receiver, install and launch Wireless Display and check Projecting to this PC. If a previously working connection fails, remove it under Bluetooth & devices > Devices > Wireless displays & docks, update Windows and the relevant drivers, and pair it again.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallQuick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
