> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.intuitibits.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Find networks using a Wi-Fi adapter

> Scan for wireless networks using the built-in or a USB Wi-Fi adapter in WiFi Explorer Pro for Windows.

You can scan for Wi-Fi networks using the built-in Wi-Fi adapter or a supported external USB Wi-Fi adapter. *WiFi Explorer Pro for Windows* sends probe requests on each supported channel for the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz bands and listens for the probe responses sent back by nearby access points. A probe response includes a set of information elements that describe the wireless network's capabilities and configuration. You can scan while connected to a Wi-Fi network.

<Note>
  Windows requires location access to scan for nearby Wi-Fi networks. Without this permission, *WiFi Explorer Pro for Windows* cannot scan for or display wireless networks. See [Enable location access](#enable-location-access) below.
</Note>

<Note>
  The bands and channels visible in *WiFi Explorer Pro for Windows* depend on the Wi-Fi adapter's capabilities, the regulatory domain, and the scan source.
</Note>

<Note>
  The scanning interval is automatically determined by how fast the Wi-Fi adapter can scan for wireless networks and cannot be changed.
</Note>

***

## Start a scan

1. Click on the *Scan Mode* menu in *WiFi Explorer Pro for Windows*'s toolbar.
2. Select the built-in or USB Wi-Fi adapter you want to scan with.

***

## Enable location access

*WiFi Explorer Pro for Windows* will never try to determine, save, or share your physical location. The location permission is used exclusively to let *WiFi Explorer Pro for Windows* access network information from Windows.

1. Go to *Windows Settings* > *Privacy & security* > *Location*.
2. Turn on **Location services** if it isn't already enabled.
3. Find *WiFi Explorer Pro for Windows* in the list of apps and turn its access on.

## See also

* [Filter scan results](/wifiexplorerpro-windows/filter-scan-results)
* [Create and manage profiles](/wifiexplorerpro-windows/create-and-manage-profiles)