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How to Fix Ethernet Driver Not Working Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Having trouble with your Ethernet driver on Windows 11? It can be frustrating when your wired internet connection suddenly stops working. Fortunately, there are simple ways to fix this issue without needing advanced technical skills.

This article will guide you through easy, step-by-step solutions to get your Ethernet driver working again. Each step is explained in a clear and basic way, so you can follow along comfortably.

By the end, you’ll know how to troubleshoot the problem, update your driver, and restore your network connection. Let’s begin with a few quick checks.

Follow these instructions carefully, starting from the simplest steps to more detailed fixes.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Check your Ethernet cable: Make sure the cable is properly plugged into your PC and router or modem. Try using a different cable if possible to rule out a faulty wire.
  • Verify the network port: Ensure the Ethernet port on your computer and router is clean and undamaged.
  • Restart your devices: Sometimes, simply restarting your PC and router can solve connectivity issues.
  • Confirm the internet service: Check if your internet service is active by testing with another device or Wi-Fi connection.

Step 1: Run the Network Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in tool for detecting and fixing network problems. This is the easiest first step.

  1. Click on the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Network Adapter in the list and click Run next to it.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions. The troubleshooter will attempt to detect issues and apply fixes automatically.

This tool is important because it can identify simple problems like disabled adapters or incorrect configurations.

Step 2: Check if the Ethernet Adapter is Enabled

Sometimes, the Ethernet adapter gets disabled by mistake. You need to ensure it is active.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Network adapters section.
  3. Look for your Ethernet device (it often has “Ethernet” or the manufacturer’s name).
  4. If you see a small down arrow on the icon, right-click the device and select Enable device.

Enabling the adapter allows your computer to communicate with the network hardware properly.

Step 3: Update the Ethernet Driver

Outdated or corrupted drivers often cause Ethernet issues. Updating the driver can help fix compatibility and performance problems.

  1. Open Device Manager again via Windows + X.
  2. Right-click your Ethernet adapter under Network adapters and choose Update driver.
  3. Select Search automatically for drivers. Windows will look for the latest driver online.
  4. If a new driver is found, install it and restart your PC.

If Windows cannot find updates, you can visit your PC or motherboard manufacturer’s website to download the latest Ethernet driver manually.

Step 4: Reset Network Settings

If updating the driver doesn’t work, resetting network settings can clear any misconfigurations that block Ethernet connectivity.

  1. Open Settings > Network & Internet.
  2. Click on Advanced network settings.
  3. Scroll down and click Network reset.
  4. Read the warning that your network adapters will be reinstalled and settings reset, then click Reset now.
  5. Your PC will restart automatically after the reset.

This step wipes all saved network configurations, so only use it if previous steps fail.

Step 5: Manually Reinstall the Ethernet Driver

In some cases, you may need to uninstall and reinstall the Ethernet driver to fix corruption issues.

  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. Right-click your Ethernet adapter and select Uninstall device.
  3. Check the box that says Delete the driver software for this device if available, then click Uninstall.
  4. Restart your computer. Windows will try to reinstall the driver automatically.

If Windows does not reinstall the driver, download it manually from the manufacturer’s website and install it.

Alternative Advanced Option: Use Command Prompt to Reset Network Components

If you are comfortable with basic command-line commands, resetting network components via Command Prompt can help.

  1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns

These commands reset network settings, refresh IP addresses, and clear DNS cache, which can resolve deeper connectivity problems.

FAQs

Why is my Ethernet driver not working after a Windows update?

Windows updates sometimes replace or disable drivers that are incompatible. Updating or reinstalling the driver usually fixes this.

Can a faulty Ethernet cable cause this error?

Yes, a damaged or unplugged Ethernet cable can cause connection issues. Always check the physical cable first.

What if Device Manager does not show my Ethernet adapter?

This could mean the driver is missing or the hardware is disabled in BIOS. Check BIOS settings or try scanning for hardware changes in Device Manager.

Is it safe to reset network settings?

Yes, but it will remove all saved Wi-Fi passwords and VPN settings, so be prepared to set them up again.

Can antivirus software block Ethernet connection?

Some security software may interfere with network drivers. Temporarily disabling antivirus can help identify if it’s the cause.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and your Ethernet driver still does not work, you might need professional help. Consider the following:

  • Visit the official Microsoft Support page for Windows 11 networking issues: https://support.microsoft.com/windows
  • Contact your PC or motherboard manufacturer’s customer support for driver assistance.
  • Consider using a USB Ethernet adapter as a temporary workaround if your built-in Ethernet port is faulty.
  • As a last resort, performing a Windows 11 system restore to a point when Ethernet was working can help.

Conclusion

Fixing the Ethernet driver not working error on Windows 11 can be straightforward if you follow the right steps. Start with simple checks like cables and network troubleshooters, then move on to enabling or updating drivers. Resetting network settings or manually reinstalling drivers often resolves lingering issues.

Remember to proceed step-by-step and don’t skip the basics. If problems persist, advanced commands or professional help might be necessary. With patience and these solutions, you should be able to restore your wired internet connection and get back online quickly.

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