How to Reinstall an NIC Card

A network interface card or NIC allows your computer to connect to a network, either through a wired or wireless interface. From time to time, you might be unable to connect to your network or the Internet because of weak signal strength or a network outage. Other connectivity problems can be caused by a corrupted or missing software driver or a faulty physical connection between the NIC and the motherboard inside the computer. These problems often can be resolved by reseating the card and reinstalling the drivers. You should be able to accomplish this task in about 10 minutes.

• 1

  Turn off your computer. Disconnect the power cord and all external devices from the back of the computer.

• 2

  Turn the case around and open the case to expose the chassis and internal hardware. Cases come in many different configurations so you might have to remove screws from the back of the case, pull open a latch or unfasten the side panel to access the interior. Wait several minutes to allow the computer to cool.

• 3

  Ground yourself by putting on an anti-static wrist strap or touching exposed metal on the chassis to discharge static electricity before touching any internal components.

• 4

  Look inside the case and locate your network interface card. If you are unsure of which card is the NIC, simply look for the Ethernet port on the outside of the case.

• 5

  Remove the screw from the top bracket that connects the NIC card to the case, then pull the card out of its slot on the motherboard. Reinsert the card, making certain it is seated securely in the slot. Fasten the top bracket with the removed screw. Close the case and connect the power cable and all external devices.

• 6

  Place the NIC installation CD supplied with your network card in the computer's optical drive and wait for the setup wizard to auto-start. Follow the on-screen prompts to install the software drivers for the network interface card.

• 7

  Restart your computer to complete the installation of the NIC drivers.