It’s simple to establish an internet connection to your laptop, but sometimes the process can be tricky. The majority of desktop models come with WiFi connectivity and an ethernet port for this purpose.
So I have written this guide with detail that covers our topic on how to connect an Ethernet cable to the laptop. Keeping in mind the laptops without Ethernet ports, this article also offers a solution in such a case.
What Is An Ethernet Port?
Ethernet is the most common way to connect devices on a LAN. These ports are used primarily for connecting Ethernet cables and other networking equipment such as routers, servers, switches, modems, or any device that connects to your network.
In desktop computers, there’s a single ethernet port where you can connect the ethernet cables and be able to access the internet.
However, if you have a faster internet package you can upgrade your network card to get additional bandwidth capability.
Additionally, most laptops also have an Ethernet port so they can connect to networks without wireless capabilities.
On the other hand, Apple’s MacBook models don’t come with an integrated ethernet port. In this case, a USB adapter is used to connect the device to the internet.
How Do You Connect Ethernet Cable To A Laptop?
Well, it’s not a big deal to connect an Ethernet cable to your laptop if there’s already an ethernet port. You just need to follow a simple procedure to be able to access the internet.
The ethernet cable has two ends to be plugged in. Simply connect one end of the ethernet cable to the laptop and plug the other end into a modem or a router. You get automatic and easy access to the internet in most cases.
If it doesn’t work, it’s time to move on to take further steps. Here is a troubleshooting guide to help you.
- Go to the Network icon.
- On the left side, click the Ethernet icon.
- Please make sure the “Ethernet” connection is enabled.
- If the “Change adapter options” does not appear. You may have to plug your Ethernet cable back in again or replace it if it says ‘Network cable unplugged’.
- Also, contact your ISP if you can’t access the Internet despite it seeming connected.
How To Connect An Ethernet Cable Without Ethernet Port
It is no surprise to connect an ethernet cable to a slim laptop like Apple’s MacBook and Dell’s XPS models, which come with no dedicated Ethernet port to get speedy internet. How is this possible?
Well, you can get a USB adapter that converts to a gigabit port where you can connect an ethernet cable. These adapters come in two types:
- Type-A
- Type-C
Using Type-A Convertor
TRENDnet USB 3.0 is particularly designed for tablets, notebooks, and ultrabooks without RJ45. With this gadget, you can quickly get access to the internet. The best part is that it offers a 2Gbps transfer speed.
It is not only easy to use but its compact design makes it portable and you can take this adapter anywhere you want.
Talking about its warranty, this adapter comes with a 2-year warranty and a money-back guarantee which means if you don’t like it, you can get a full refund.
Using Type-C Converter
Thunderbolt 3/Type-C is another easy solution to connect an ethernet cable if your laptop lacks an RJ45 port. It provides high download speeds without any packet loss. If you want the best speeds then we recommend using a Cat6 or the latest version of ethernet cable.
This adapter ensures a stable connection speed of up to 1Gbps along with downward compatibility of 100Mbps or 10 Mbps networks.
When wireless connectivity remains inconsistent or overextended, this gigabit ethernet ensures reliable and consistent connectivity. It is lightweight and has a user-friendly design. You can use this adapter with almost every laptop that comes with a USB-C port!