How to Install Ethernet Controller Drivers

Without an Ethernet controller driver, you cannot connect to the Internet.

Installing drivers for a new computer or one that does not have the necessary drivers can be a hassle. Not all computers come preinstalled with the correct drivers, running any hardware without them is impossible. Ethernet cards require drivers to run as well, and without them you cannot access the internet. Most manufacturers of prebuilt computers make it easy to find the necessary drivers.

Things You'll Need

• Driver support CD

Instructions

1. Insert a support drivers CD. Some computer manufacturers include support drivers for networking, which installs the Ethernet controller driver. Insert the motherboard start-up disc if you recently bought a new motherboard. Almost all motherboard manufacturers include some type of CD to install Ethernet drivers. Elect to install the drivers and then restart your computer.

2. Download the driver. Search your computer model number on the computer manufacturer's website. The computer model can usually be found on either the side or back of the computer. Select support drivers for your computer model and then browse until you find the "Ethernet controller driver," which is sometimes named "Network driver." Download the driver.

3. Install the driver. "Double-click" on the EXE file that you downloaded from the computer manufacturer's website. It will either download into your documents folder, your download history folder, or your desktop. Follow the step-by-step guide to installing the driver, and restart your computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not download drivers from sites other than from your computer manufacturer. Drivers from other sites can sometimes be filled with viruses, and if they're not, they may not be the correct driver version you need.

References

• PC Guide: Installing Other Drivers
• Ground Floor Vertigo: What is an Ethernet Card and Why do you need one?