How to Identify an NIC Card
NIC is short for Network Interface Card, which is also known as a Network card or LAN card. A NIC is essentially synonymous with an Ethernet card, though technically Ethernet is a type of NIC. Identifying your NIC can be useful if you need to upgrade its drivers or search for technical support.
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Instructions
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Identify NICs with Device Manager
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Click "Start," and open "Control Panel."
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Double click on "System."
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Click on the "Hardware" tab and then click "Device manager." If you have MS Vista, just click "Device manager." (There are no tabs under the system menu)
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Search through the list of devices for "Network Adapters," and double click that field. A list of your network devices will be displayed. For more information about the devices, right click on them and select "Properties."
Physical Inspection of a Network Card
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Turn off your computer and unplug the power cord.
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Open your computer's case with a screwdriver. Look for a few screws to remove along the right side of the back of the case.
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Find your NIC. Network adapters are almost always in a PCI slot--slots along the back and bottom of the case. If you have any trouble finding it, check the back of the case for cards with Ethernet sized ports. (They look just like a phone plug , but are sightly larger.) The device with Ethernet ports should be your NIC.
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Remove and inspect the NIC. Remove a mounting screw on the card near the back of the case, then pull it would with even force applied directly away from the slot. When it comes free inspect the labels of the card for the manufacturer, model of the card and other identifying information.
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Reinstall the card. Align the card back in the PCI slot and push it in firmly until the gold connectors pop into place and the back of the card lines up flush with the back of the case. Put the mounting screw back in, then close the case and plug the power cord back in.
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Tips & Warnings
After identifying your NIC, you may want to use the information to search for the most up to date software driver for the card. Better drivers can sometimes increase connection speeds. If your computer has a network device built into the motherboard (known as an integrated or onboard NIC) you may not be able to identify it be opening the case. Your computer may have multiple NICs installed.
