Can I add on an ethernet port to my computer...if so how?

Question

I am needing to add an ethernet port to my computer that only has usb ports. I am not sure if this can be done. I have an extra slot in the back of the computer so it looks that I could do so. Where would I purchase one and how much do they normally cost? Thanks so much!

Answer 1

It is indeed possible to add an Ethernet adapter to your computer, and easy enough to do so at home.

First of all, you need to open your computer.

Look around on the main board of your computer and locate a white slot (there may be more than one of them) that is about three inches long. You may find that your computer already has other peripherals installed into the adjacent slots. If you've found a three-inch-long white slot, you're on the right path.

Now that you know that your computer has the necessary slot to plug the card into, you need to go to the store and buy an Ethernet adapter. You can buy one at Best Buy, Staples, Wal-Mart, or a website such as NewEgg.com.

Remove the card from its packaging, and if it comes with a CD be sure not to lose it. Look inside your computer and find that three-inch-long white port we were just talking about. Arrange the card in your hand so that the long metal bracket on it is facing the back of your computer. [You may notice that there is a metal piece that is screwed into place, parallel to the slot you are installing the card in. Simply unscrew it and pull it out of the computer.]

Line the card up with the white slot and give it a firm push, applying even pressure to the edge of the card. The card should snap right in. If you did it correctly, the card should stand without you holding it, and the metal bracket should line up with a screw well on your computer. Screw a screw into the well (the card should include one in its package) to secure the card into place.

Put your computer back together and turn it on.

Windows should give you the Add New Hardware screen. If you have Windows XP, you probably won't even need to do anything; just watch the little balloons pop up in the corner of your screen that say your hardware is working.

Presto! You've got an Ethernet port.

Answer 2

they don't look to be an identical element!!!!!!!! A swap like suggested above is smarter. It inspects the options and then makes a determination depending on the files the position the options might want to bypass (out which Ethernet port) to get to the right computing gadget. A hub takes the files and shoots it out all Ethernet ports. in case you had all 5 Ethernet ports plugged on a hub it ought to causes a lot extra "collision domains" then a swap, ensuing in slower community speed. Granted the impact isn't that sizeable on a house community, notwithstanding it truly is rather sizeable on a large community. don't be fooled they don't look to be an identical! that is why switchs value extra.

Answer 3

This is a pretty easy upgrade to do. Manufactures sell expansion cards that fit into the PCI slots on your motherboard. I'm not 100% sure about your system because I have never seen it, but generally most motherboards have a few spare slots open even if the computer comes from Dell or HP for example.

Here is a link to a card on newegg: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16833124120

You may want to research on how to perform the upgrade, but in general it requires you to take of the side panel of your computer tower, find the PCI expansion slot, remove its back panel metal plate and to install the card, then close everything back up, and install the software for the card.

Answer 4

You can get an Ethernet 10/100 card that you can install into any PCI slot available. Cost about ten bucks.

Answer 5

You should be able to add a 10/100/1000 PCI Ethernet Adapter. But this depends on your system. Could you provide a make and model?

Answer 6

ethernet cards are like really cheap ... try newegg.com

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.asp?N=2050400027+4024&Submit=ENE&SubCategory=27

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