Ethernet is essential for an uninterrupted internet connection. However, to ensure the LAN cable functions smoothly on your computer, a correct Ethernet driver is necessary.
These drivers come bundled with most PCs, reassuring users that problems with missing or corrupted drivers are rare. In the majority of cases, the pre-installed driver will suffice for seamless functionality.
However, for some reason, the Ethernet driver for Windows 11/10 may become corrupted or go missing. In such situations, you need to download and install the drivers on your computer to experience an unhindered and stable internet connection.
In this article, we discuss the simplest and quickest ways to find, download, install, and update the Ethernet drivers for your Windows operating system.
Before these methods, i.e., obtaininga the driver from the manufacturer, Device Manager, or Windows update, let’s clear the confusion about what an Ethernet driver is and why you need one.
What Is the Driver for Ethernet
An Ethernet driver is a specialized software that functions as a translator between your PC’s operating system and its network adapter, i.e., physical Ethernet hardware. It allows the computer to send and receive data via wired networks and handle tasks such as adapter configuration, data packet management, and TCP/IP stack communication for internet connectivity.
The driver tells the hardware what to do and helps understand the signals, making the network card functional for local network connection and wired internet. Without the driver, your wired internet connection may not function properly. Hence, let’s proceed to downloading and installing the updated driver for Ethernet.
Methods to Download, Install, and Update Ethernet Drivers
Before proceeding with the methods below to perform Ethernet driver download and update, ensure that you are connected to the internet. We recommend connecting to Wi-Fi if your Ethernet is not working smoothly due to an outdated driver.
If neither Ethernet nor Wi-Fi works, consider using another device to download the driver and transfer it to your computer using a USB drive. Once you have connected to the internet, you can proceed with any of the following methods.
Method 1: Download the Ethernet driver for Windows 10/11 from the manufacturer
One of the best ways to install the drivers is to visit the official website of the device manufacturer. The top manufacturers include Intel, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Asus, and Acer. However, you must know the correct product details and Windows OS information to fetch genuine drivers. Here is how to do it.
Note: To find the model and specifications of your PC or Ethernet adapter, you can use built-in tools like System Information or Device Manager. To access System Information, type ‘System Information’ in the Windows search bar and press Enter. Under ‘System Summary’, note the ‘System Model’. Alternatively, open Device Manager by pressing Windows + X and selecting Device Manager from the menu. Expand the ‘Network Adapters’ section to identify your Ethernet hardware model. Knowing these details will ensure you obtain the correct driver.
- In the first step, navigate to the official website of your manufacturer.
- Next, go to Support and then the Driver Download Page.
- In this step, search for your product on the official website and select the compatible driver file.
- Now, select the correct Windows operating system version and click on the Download option.
- Once the driver file is downloaded, double-click on the downloaded file and follow the on-screen directions to complete the process.
- Lastly, restart your computer to let the newly installed Ethernet driver take effect.
Also know: What Is SSID and How to Find SSID of Wi-Fi: Complete Guide
Method 2: Download and install the latest Ethernet drivers from the Device Manager
Windows has a default tool called Device Manager to manage all the connected devices and their drivers. Hence, you can download, install, and update the Ethernet driver for Windows 11 or 10 via Device Manager. To use this tool, you can follow the steps below.
- First, press the Windows and X keys simultaneously on your keyboard.
- Next, select Device Manager from the on-screen options.
- Once the Device Manager window appears, locate and double-click the Network Adapters category.
- In this step, right-click your Ethernet device and select Update Driver from the on-screen menu.
- Next, click Search automatically for drivers.
- Follow the on-screen directions to download and install the required drivers. If you encounter any errors during installation, try restarting your computer and repeating the process. If the issue persists, check for any compatibility issues with your operating system or visit the manufacturer’s website for further support or troubleshooting guides.
- Lastly, reboot your PC to save the newly updated drivers.
Method 3: Update Windows to download and install the latest Ethernet drivers
Windows updates solve common problems, fix security issues, and install the required drivers on your computer. Hence, you can apply these steps to update Windows to download and install the Ethernet drivers.
- In the first step, use the combination of the Windows and S keys to access the search utility.
- Next, type check for updates in the search bar and click on it in the search results.
- In this step, click on the Check for updates button to allow Windows to find the available updates for your computer.
- Click on the on-screen Download & install button to download and install the recommended updates (including the optional updates).
- Lastly, restart your computer to complete the update process.
Also know: How to Fix Wifi Connected But No Internet Connection
Ethernet Driver Download, Install, and Update Completed Successfully
Above, we explained some reliable methods you can use to search for, download, install, and update the Ethernet drivers. You can follow any of these ways depending on which of them suits your needs the best.
However, if you have any questions or confusion, do not hesitate to drop us a comment. Additionally, if you wish to read more informative articles related to technology, subscribe to our newsletter.
