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How to Install Two Ethernet Cards in One Computer

Contributor
By Gregory Hamel
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

Ethernet cards are devices that allow computers to connect to cable modems, DSL modems, routers and other computer networking devices to access the Internet and setup networks. While most computers come with an Ethernet adapter installed, it can be useful to have two or more Ethernet cards installed on a desktop computer to provide connectivity to multiple devices such as a modem and another computer's Ethernet card to share the connection.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Screwdriver(s)
  • Two free PCI slots
  1. Step 1

    Turn off the computer and unplug the cables.

  2. Step 2

    Set the computer on its right side so the left side is accessible and remove the left side case panel with a screwdriver. (Usually two or three Phillips head screws must be removed from the back of the case to remove the panel.)

  3. Step 3

    Locate two free PCI slots on the mortherboard. PCI slots are the most plentiful type of expansion slot on most motherboards and are situated near the back of the computer, each with a corresponding slot cover.

  4. Step 4

    Take off the slot covers for both PCI slots that will house Ethernet cards. Slot covers are small metal pieces that cover the back of PCI slots, separating the inside of the computer from the outside. These slots must be removed so the connectors on the back of the Ethernet card will be accessible. A single screw just inside the case will need to be removed to take off the slot covers for most computers.

  5. Step 5

    Install the first Ethernet card in one of the free PCI slots by aligning it at a 90-degree angle and pushing down firmly and evenly. A firm push should cause the card to pop into the slot.

  6. Step 6

    Install the second Ethernet card the same way as in step 5.

  7. Step 7

    Use the screws that held the slot covers in place to secure the Ethernet cards in place.

  8. Step 8

    Close the computer case and power on the computer.

  9. Step 9

    Use the CDs that came with each card to install basic driver software for each Ethernet card. You can restart your computer after installing each driver or restart once after installing drivers for both cards.

Tips & Warnings
  • You can install more than two Ethernet cards in a PC tower so long as there are free PCI slots to use. Some computer motherboards have an Ethernet adapter built in. For these computers, only one additional Ethernet card will need to be installed in a PCI slot to have two Ethernet ports available.
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