Ethernet problem.

Peter Woodhouse 85 Reputation points
2026-10-22T04:32:03.4266667+00:00

Windows 11 Pro. 26H2. Build 26300.9711

Running 5G mobile wi-fi adapter for internet and using ethernet cable for computer. Been using it this way for 3 years when suddenly the ethernet drops out and wi-fi takes over. Have checked the adapter, everything looks good there.

Changed the ethernet cable, but still only have wi-fi available.

Any ideas???

Cheers,

Peter.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Internet and connectivity
0 comments
Answer accepted by question author
Ivan B 127.3K Reputation points Independent Advisor
2026-10-22T07:07:55.26+00:00

Hi,

That’s strange. Let’s try a simple test: shut down your PC completely and unplug it from the power source. Wait about 3 minutes, plug it back in, and turn the PC on. Once it boots up, check to see if the Realtek network driver reappears.

If it doesn’t, we’ll need to take a look at the BIOS to see if the option has been disabled.

Thanks.

Was this answer helpful?

1 person found this answer helpful.

9 additional answers

Sort by: Newest
Most helpful Newest Oldest
  1. Peter Woodhouse 85 Reputation points
    2026-10-22T05:45:33.67+00:00

    Screenshot 2026-10-22 163607

    Hi Ivan, went to advanced sharing settings. No mention of ethernet.

    Peter.

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments
  2. Ivan B 127.3K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-10-22T05:33:33.39+00:00

    Hi,

    Could you please provide the "System Summary" from msinfo32.exe? A screenshot would be ideal.

    Also, if possible, go to the Start menu > Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings > Ethernet, click on the arrow, and check if it is set to "Enabled" and shows a "Link speed."

    Thanks

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments
  3. Peter Woodhouse 85 Reputation points
    2026-10-22T05:28:24.9566667+00:00

    Screenshot 2026-10-22 161635

    Might have to wait a day or two before I can get the wi-fi adapter tested.

    Hope the scraanshot was ok.

    Peter

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments
  4. Ivan B 127.3K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-10-22T05:06:16.32+00:00

    Hi,

    Is the network cable showing as connected in your Windows settings?

    Search for msinfo32.exe in the search bar, take a screenshot, and post it here so we can see the correct laptop model or desktop configuration.

    Thanks

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments

Your answer

Answers can be marked as 'Accepted' by the question author and 'Recommended' by moderators, which helps users know the answer solved the author's problem.