Windows 7: Can't find a network controller driver for my PC. Go to device manager and locate the unknown device. Right click on it and go to properties. In the properties window, go to the details tab and in the dropdown menu, go down to hardware ID's and post the top value here so we can help you. Apr 27, 2017 - Ethernet controller driver is missing after Windows 7 install? Solutions here will fix the issue. Try them and find one that works for.
Users running Microsoft Windows
Microsoft Windows users can determine the network card currently installed in their computer by following the steps below.
Windows 8 and 10 users
- In Windows 8, start typing system info while on the Start screen and select the System Information option in the search results.
In Windows 10, type system info in the search bar on the taskbar and select the System Information option in the search results. - In the System Informationwindow, click the + symbol next to Components in the left navigation area.
- Click the + next to Network and highlight Adapter. In the right side of the window, you should see complete information about the network card.
Windows 7 and earlier users
- Click Start and then click the Programs or All Programsoption.
- Click the Accessories and then the System Tools folder.
- In the System Tools folder, click the System Information program.
- In the System Information window, click the + symbol next to Components in the left navigation area.
- Click the + next to Network and highlight Adapter. In the right side of the window, you should see complete information about the network card.
Microsoft may install a different, but compatible driver for some network cards. As a result, the network card listed may not actually be the exact manufacturer or model that is installed on your computer.
Other methods of determining the network card type
- Another method of determining the network card in the computer is by physically looking at the network card. Many times the network card will list the manufacturer and part number on the actual card.
- If you cannot locate a manufacturer or model number of the network card, but can locate an FCC identification number, it is recommended that you perform an FCC search using that number. For additional information about FCC numbers, see our FCC definition page.
Product listing or specifications
If you are trying to list all the specific information about your computer network card, specifying the manufacturer, type, model, and speed of the network card is sufficient. Below is an example of how this may look.
PCI 3COM 3C905B 10/100 Ethernet
Drivers or installation
How To Find Network Controller Driver Windows 7 Free
- Computer network drivers.
- How to install a computer network card.
Replacement or repair
If you are trying to determine the network card because it needs replaced or repaired, it is recommended that the network card be replaced with another network card. If you are replacing an old 10 MB network card, it is recommended it be replaced with a 10/100 network card.
- Computer network card and equipment buying tips.
Additional information
Where To Find Network Adapter Drivers Windows 7
How to Update Drivers to Fix Ethernet Problems Quickly & Easily
Many Ethernet problems can be fixed by updating the drivers. After you upgrade to Windows 10, problems can occur because your current driver may work only for the prior version of Windows. There are two ways you can update your Ethernet drivers.
Option 1: Update drivers manually - Use DriverGuide to find the correct driver for your device and operating system. Next, download and install it by following the step by step instructions. You’ll need average to intermediate level computer skills to use this method.
Dell Network Controller Driver Windows 7
OR
Option 2 (Recommended): Update drivers automatically - Even computer newbies can update drivers with just a few clicks of a mouse. Use trusted software to identify, download and install the newest driver updates for your PC in one step. Your old drivers can be backed up and restored if you encounter any problems. You’ll need novice to beginner level computer skills to use this method.
Option 1: Update drivers manually
To get the latest driver, including Windows 10 drivers, you can choose from our list of most popular Ethernet downloads or search our driver archive for the driver that fits your specific Ethernet model and your PC’s operating system.