I've been using Ethernet for years without issues, but after returning home from being away for two months, my Ethernet connection suddenly doesn't work. I've used the same cable and router as before, yet my PC keeps saying, 'Ethernet cable not plugged in.' I've already tried updating the network adapter, switching back to an older one, using commands like ipconfig /flushdns and netsh winsock reset, changing the DNS server, and even doing a network reset, but nothing has worked so far. I plugged the cable into another computer, and it works fine, so I'm pretty sure it's not the cable. Is my Ethernet port on the motherboard possibly damaged, or are there other troubleshooting steps I should consider before thinking about buying a new motherboard? Just for context, here are my specs: MSI X870 Tomahawk, 9800X3D, 5080, Windows 11.
3 Answers
Have you tried uninstalling and reinstalling the adapter drivers from Device Manager instead of just updating them? Sometimes a fresh install clears up issues like this.
Did you try powering down your computer, connecting the Ethernet cable, and then turning it back on? Also, are you seeing any lights on the RJ45 connector when you plug it in?
It sounds like the Ethernet port may have gone bad. I recommend keeping a USB to Ethernet adapter handy as a backup just in case.
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