How to Identify a Network Interface Card
Network interface cards, or network adapters, are devices which allow a computer to connect to other computers or the Internet. Ethernet cards are network cards which allow for wired Internet connection. Wireless adapters are network cards that allow for Wi-Fi Internet networking. Installed network cards can be identified by using the Device Manager and by physically opening a computer and locating the network card.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
Use Device Manager to Identify Network Devices
-
1
Click "Start," then "Control Panel."
-
2
Double click on "Administrative Tools," then on "Computer Management."
-
-
3
Click on "Device Manager." A list of your computer's hardware devices will populate in the middle of the management window.
-
4
Search through the list for a field called "Network Adapters." Click on the plus (+) sign next to this field to expand a list of your network devices.
-
5
Right click on any device and select "Properties," for more detailed information.
Open the Computer to Identify Network Devices
-
6
Turn off the computer and unplug the power cord.
-
7
Use your screwdriver to take out the screws on the back of the case. After taking out the screws, the case cover should be able to slide off freely, giving you access to the motherboard and other hardware devices.
-
8
Locate your network interface card. Network cards are installed on PCI slots which are usually located toward the bottom and back of the case, where the ports stick out of the back of the case. If you have an Ethernet cable plugged into the card, follow the cord to easily locate it.
-
9
Check the card for identify labels. Most hardware devices will have product number labels, serial numbers, or other identifying information you can use to find out what type of card it is. If you can't see the labels on the card, take the card out and look at it more closely. To take the card out, unscrew a small retainer screw near the back of the case, then pull the card straight out of the slot.
-
10
Reinstall the card and close the computer. To put the card back in, line it up squarely with the PCI slot, and push it firmly on both sides.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Some computers may have two or more network adapter cards installed. Identifying network cards is useful for searching for software driver updates. If your computer has an onboard network card (build into the motherboard) you may not be able to identify it by opening the case. In this case, use a free program like CPU-Z to identify your motherboard model, then search for technical specifications of your motherboard at the website for your motherboard's manufacturer. It should have information about the built-in network card.
