Ethernet Drivers

One of the most common devices used by PC users in today’s modern computing world is the Ethernet card. Ethernet cards are networking devices used to provide a personal computer with connectivity to a local area network (LAN) such as those found in a home or office. Ethernet card drivers are low-level software components that facilitate communication between Ethernet cards and their host PCs.

Why we need Ethernet card drivers

A personal computer cannot communicate with its corresponding devices without a mode of communication, and Ethernet cards are no exception. Ethernet card drivers, or “drivers” for short, provide this communication method. Simply put, a PC cannot make use of an Ethernet card without the proper Ethernet Card drivers. A wide variety of Ethernet cards exist, each differing in functionality. Although most Ethernet cards use a standard RJ-45 connector (a connector that looks like an over-sized telephone plug), each Ethernet card differs internally by design. Some are faster than others. One card may support a different set of protocols than the other. Manufacturers may use some similar components in developing their Ethernet cards but final designs can vary considerably. Due to such variance, there is no “one-size-fits-all” Ethernet card driver. It is crucial that one obtain the Ethernet card drivers appropriate for one’s chosen Ethernet card. Given the fact that Internet-usage is the one of the top activities users perform on personal computers, it is important that correct, up-to-date drivers be installed to ensure high-speed, quality transmissions

How to handle common Ethernet problems

Ethernet cards, being solid state and therefore containing no moving parts, are fairly robust by nature. There is very little that can physically go wrong with an Ethernet card. Ethernet cards are one of the most stable peripherals a PC can have. However, this doesn’t mean they are without problems. If an Ethernet card does not work at all, check to make sure it is properly installed inside the PC. This only applies if the device is not an integral part of the motherboard. With the power off, open the computer, look for the card containing the Ethernet device, and gently push it completely into it’s socket. Keep in mind this may apply to even portable computers, as some laptops still have Ethernet cards and do not necessary have networking electronics integrated onto the motherboard. After powering the computer on, connect one end of an Ethernet cable to the Ethernet socket and the other end to your network’s router. The two lights next to the socket should light up, showing activity. No lights at all could signify a physical defect in the Ethernet Card. If the lights do show activity, most likely the problem is due to incorrectly installed drivers. Reinstall the Ethernet card drivers and try again.