Connecting an Ethernet cable to your laptop is not that difficult. All you have to do is plug in the cable and start using the internet. But, it’s not that simple for all laptops.
Ethernet cable is considered an effective solution for faster internet speeds and the wired connection will have priority access over Wi-Fi from router devices.
Some laptops do not come with an Ethernet port and many users face difficulty when using an Ethernet cable with a laptop for the first time.
In this article, we will be sharing how to connect an Ethernet cable to a laptop and different methods to connect an Ethernet cable to a laptop that doesn’t come with an Ethernet port.
Also Read: How To Connect Hotspot To A Laptop?
Let’s get right to it:
Contents
Best Methods To Connect Ethernet Cable To Your Laptop
First of all, you need to purchase high-quality ethernet cable from the tech store. You can also order one online. Ethernet cables are available in all sizes and lengths. So, you can get the one that easily reaches your laptop’s table or workspace.
Once you get the cable, fix it on the wall if you are going to be using it frequently, and then plug it into the router device. The router comes with multiple ports and if there are not any ethernet cables already plugged in, then you should plug the cable in LAN 1.
Coming to the laptop, let us now discuss how you can connect the cable to the laptop.
Directly Connecting Ethernet Port
If your laptop comes with an Ethernet port, then you have nothing to worry about. All you have to do is connect the Ethernet cable to your laptop and it will automatically configure the settings.
Once you plug in the cable, wait for a few seconds for the system to configure the Ethernet connection.
Once it’s configured, you will be able to use the internet. Best to turn off the Wi-Fi so that the system works on the wired connection.
You won’t have to install any drivers or third-party applications and will be able to use the internet conveniently as soon as it is configured.
Also Read: How To Increase Wi-Fi Speed On A Laptop?
Using a Port Adapter
If your laptop doesn’t come with an Ethernet port, there is absolutely nothing to worry about. You can get a port adapter that would have an Ethernet port on one end and a USB Type-A or Type-C port on the other.
If your laptop comes with a USB Type-C port, then I highly recommend that you opt for a USB Type-C adapter instead of Type-A, as you will get faster speed internet and better connectivity.
If your laptop only has Type-A USB ports, then you can choose to go with USB Type-A adapters that would convert Ethernet cable to USB Type-A.
Once you have plugged in the Ethernet cable into the USB port using the adapter, you will have to wait a few seconds until the system configures the connection. Then you will be able to use the Internet.
The internet speed will depend on the generation of the USB port and chip that is installed on our laptop. So, if you have an older laptop, you might not be satisfied with the speed.
But, if you have one of the newer laptops that comes with USB Type-C ports, then you can enjoy amazing speeds that are significantly faster than Wi-Fi.
Using a Multiport Adapter
If your laptop comes with limited connectivity options and you don’t wanna sacrifice those options for connecting Ethernet cable, then you can opt for a multi-port adapter instead of a single one.
The multiport adapter will have significantly more options for connecting various devices to your system at the same time.
However, you should be careful while selecting a multi-port option as there can be compatibility issues. Check for the specific models that are compatible with your laptop before purchasing.
Using a Docking Station
Speaking of connectivity options, a docking station is considered a much better option than a multiport adapter, but it is also more expensive.
A docking station provides your laptop with the capability to get extensive connectivity options and turns your laptop into a complete workstation.
Same as previously mentioned, you do have to check for compatibility options when looking for a docking station.
While there are universal docking stations available, most of them are compatible with a limited set of laptops only.
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Troubleshooting Tips! – Important Things To Know
If you are unable to use the internet after connecting the ethernet cable, it might occur for one of the following reasons. Let us discuss these reasons one by one.
Faulty Ethernet Cable
You might have gotten a faulty internet cable in your hands. If you purchased a new one, better check it with some other device and see if it works there. If it doesn’t, then you can claim a replacement from the seller.
Faulty Port Adapter / Docking Station
Port adapters and docking stations can be faulty or might not be compatible with your specific laptop model. You must check for compatibility when you are purchasing one of these.
Wi-Fi Turned On
When you connect the Ethernet cable, you should turn off the Wi-Fi so that the system only uses the internet from the Ethernet.
If you haven’t turned off the Wi-Fi, then naturally system would prefer the Ethernet connection but there can be certain issues in that as well.
Other Issues
Other issues include issues with the router or internet connectivity from the provider. You should figure out the problem and resolve it accordingly.
If there are issues with the laptop, you can run the trouble-shooter from the settings to figure out the specific problem and let it resolve on its own.
Most of the time, when you connect an ethernet cable, you can start using the internet almost instantly and there are not any issues.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easy to connect an Ethernet port to a laptop?
Yes, if your laptop comes with an ethernet port, then you can easily connect the cable to your laptop. However, if the laptop doesn’t have a specific port, then you will have to use an adapter or connect your laptop to a docking station.
How to connect to Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi?
When connecting the Ethernet cable, you should turn off the Wi-Fi on your laptop. Turning off the Wi-Fi will allow the system to prioritize the Ethernet connection if it’s not doing that already on its own.
How do I get my laptop to recognize my Ethernet cable?
If your laptop isn’t correctly recognizing the Ethernet cable, it can be because of several reasons. The cable or adapter port might be faulty. You should run the network trouble-shooter to identify the issue.
Do all laptops have an Ethernet port?
No, all laptops do not come with an Ethernet port. The modern laptops might not come with this port and you will have to use an adapter to use the Ethernet cable. You can purchase an adapter easily with a USB Type-A or Type-C interface.
Wrapping Up!
Summing it all up, if your laptop comes with an Ethernet port, then you can directly connect the cable and start using the internet.
However, if there is no port, then you will have to purchase an adapter to connect your laptop to a docking station first to use the internet through Ethernet connectivity.
The above guide shares everything you need to know to connect an Ethernet cable to your laptop. I hope the guide helps you resolve any issues you might have with the connectivity process. Good Luck!