I recently had a lightning strike in my yard, and now my Ethernet port seems to be malfunctioning. I've got a yellow exclamation mark on my Ethernet connection in Device Manager, but I can't update it because I have no internet access. Unfortunately, there's no option to reinstall it, so I'm at a loss regarding the next steps. I've tried resetting everything with a tech guy and got a new router, so I know the Ethernet cords work fine since my Xbox connects without any issues. I'm running Windows 10 on an Intel i7-7700k. If the Ethernet port is totally fried, what part would I need to replace? Would getting a WiFi adapter be an easier or cheaper solution? Everything else in my computer is still fine, thank goodness, as I have a surge protector, so at least my PC is intact. I'm trying various network reset methods and reinstalling drivers to see if that helps.
3 Answers
Sounds like it's dead. But don't worry, you can verify it easily! Grab a spare USB stick and download a Linux distro like Linux Mint. Use Rufus to write it to the stick, boot from it, and try out the Ethernet there. If that works, it’s a software issue. If not, your port is likely fried and you should get a network card or a USB Ethernet adapter. Just check your motherboard for free slots before buying anything!
If your Ethernet port is fried, you'll need a NIC card, which is a cheap fix. Just check that you have an available slot on your motherboard. If you're considering going wireless, a USB WiFi adapter is a great option too!
Or you could get a USB/USB-C to Ethernet adapter that can give you 1Gbps speeds. They’re pretty handy!
Just buy a USB Ethernet adapter; they're super cheap and a quick fix. You got lucky that it’s only the port and not the entire motherboard. Good luck!
Ordered one already! Didn't realize Ethernet could be so easy again. Thanks for the help!
Thanks for the detailed advice! I appreciate it.