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Wired Networking

Wired Networking

A hardwired network, using an Ethernet cable connected to a router or Modem to get to the internet, also known as hardwired internet is faster, more stable, secure, and easier to set up than a wireless network. There still may be times you have issues, as shown below. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, the suggested quick steps might help.

  • You are experiencing a loss of connectivity to the Internet, such as being unable to browse to a web page, chat, or use a video conferencing application such as Microsoft Teams, Skype, or Zoom.
  • You are experiencing slow or intermittent connection to the Internet, such as buffering when watching a video or a long load time while browsing a web page.
  • File and printer-sharing issues.

Follow these quick steps to help you to resolve your wired networking issue.

Try each step and check if the wired network issue is resolved. If the issue is not resolved, proceed to the next step.

Fix 1: Remove and reinsert the network (Ethernet) cable on both ends and listen for a click to ensure it is all the way in.

cat5e

Fix 2: Try another network cable (if available) to see if the issue persists.

Fix 3: Recycle the power on the computer and router or modem.

This process will sync up the Modem, router, and computer.

  1. Turn off the computer and router or modem.
    turn off
  2. Wait 3 minutes, then turn on the router or modem.
  3. Wait another 2 minutes, and then turn on the computer to re-synchronize them.

Fix 4: Run the Windows Network Troubleshooter.

The Windows Network Troubleshooter finds and fixes problems with connecting to the Internet or to websites.

  1. Press and hold the Window key, and then press the Q key.
  2. Type network troubleshooter in the search box.
  3. Select Find and fix Network problems (Control panel) from the results.
    network
  4. Click Next and follow the prompts.

Fix 5: Run the Optimize Network option in the SupportAssist application.

This tool ensures connectivity and updates settings to keep your network efficient and reliable.

  1. Press and hold the Window key, and then press the Q key.
  2. Type SupportAssist in the search box.
  3. Select SupportAssist (App) from the results (If SupportAssist is not available on your computer, proceed to Fix 6.)
    SupportAssist
  4. Click the down arrow at the bottom of the SupportAssist window.
    SupportAssist
  5. Select Run under Optimize network and follow the prompts.
    SupportAssist

Fix 6: Download and install the latest wired (Ethernet) network driver for your Dell computer.

Learn how to download and install Dell drivers.

Fix 7: Run the hardware test to ensure your network adapter is working correctly.

Fix 8: Update the firmware of your router (if one is used). Contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or the router manufacturer for more information.


Video Resources

Other Resources

diagnostic
Network Hardware Test
Dell recommends running diagnostics on your wired network adapter to ensure it is working correctly. Network Hardware Test
network
Wired Internet Connection Usage and Troubleshooting Guide
Learn about setting up, connecting, sharing files, photos, music, and troubleshooting your wired network. Wired Internet Connection Usage and Troubleshooting Guide
network
FAQs on network adapters and Ethernet ports
Learn the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Network Interface Card or Physical Network Interface port on a Dell personal computer. FAQs on network adapters and Ethernet ports
movie clapper play
Support videos
Go to our Dell video library for more support videos. Support videos
wifi
Wireless (Wi-Fi) Networking
Follow the suggested quick steps to resolve wireless networking issues. Find links to additional resources for troubleshooting wireless networking problems. Wireless (Wi-Fi) Networking
Bluetooth
Bluetooth
Follow the suggested quick steps to resolve your Bluetooth device related issues on a Dell computer. Find links to additional resources for troubleshooting Bluetooth device related problems. Bluetooth