If your Ethernet cable is not working correctly, it could be from a faulty cable, a faulty port, or something wrong with your hardware. Here is how to troubleshoot an Ethernet cable that isn’t working and how to fix it.
Check The Ethernet Cable
The first and most obvious step is to check your Ethernet cable for any signs of damage. If you notice any wear-and-tear or an obvious break in the cable, it may be time to buy a new Ethernet cable.
If you have a second Ethernet cable, try connecting it and see if it gives you a signal. If it does, evidently, it’s an issue with your Ethernet cable. For that, a simple replacement is needed.
Alternatively, it could be wear-and-tear on the port. If the port is full of dirt and debris, clean it using a small brush. A broken port will either outright not work or cause the Ethernet cable to sit loosely in it. This will create an intermittent connection. Outside of replacing the Ethernet port, buying a USB-to-Ethernet adapter and using one of your device’s USB ports is your next best bet.
Troubleshoot Your Hardware
If you have another device to try an Ethernet cable on, do so. If you can establish the Ethernet cable is working and the port appears intact, it’s likely a software or hardware issue. The troubleshooting feature in Windows is a great place to start for that.
Under ‘Settings’ and ‘Update & Security’, click on ‘Troubleshoot’ on the Ethernet network adapter. This will look for any malfunctioning components that could be creating an unstable cable connection.
If it notes any problems, the troubleshooter will display recommended instructions to follow to remedy them.
Update Your Ethernet Drivers
Another possible area where errors can be made is with the Ethernet drivers. They can be outdated or corrupt. If this is the case, a lack of connectivity is possible.
Head to ‘Device Manager’ in Windows and click ‘Best Match’ and then ‘View’. Click on ‘Show Hidden Devices’. Head to ‘Network Adapters’, click on the Ethernet driver and update it. It will search automatically for any updates you may have missed, download them, install them, and there you have it.
Here are some other things you can try to fix your Ethernet cable.
- Disable your VPN if you use one. This can interfere with connectivity.
- Plug in your device. As power management settings kick in to maximize what’s left in a low-battery, it could shut down the functionality of your Ethernet.
With any hope, it’s one of these things that has caused trouble with your Ethernet. At PrimeCables.ca, Ethernet is our go-to for Internet. If you need to replace your Ethernet network cable, visit us.
