Microcomputer Services
Ethernet Card Installation

Background

Virtually every new computer--Mac and PC--comes with built-in Ethernet.

If your system does not include Ethernet, but you are attempting to connect from on campus, you should get an Ethernet card. Ethernet is more than 200 times faster than a modem, and allows 24-hour-a-day uninterrupted connections without tying up your phone line. You cannot use a built-in modem to make an Ethernet connection.

Microcomputer Services recommends that you hire a professional hardware technician to install the Ethernet card for you or that you have the assistance of professional computer support staff. Unfortunately, because this process is innately very time-consuming, we cannot help you directly with Ethernet card installations. See below for your computer support options.

While it is possible for a novice computer user install an Ethernet adapter, it is also possible to cause permanent damage to the computer or card. If the card is not configured properly, the computer may not boot, or it may freeze up without an error message. In many cases one can simply change the settings on an Ethernet card to get the computer booting again smoothly. With a good measure of common sense, many have successfully installed their own Ethernet adapters without damaging either their computer or the card.

PC card installations on laptops can be done by anyone without professional computer support staff. Configuration and use of these cards is generally trivial for Macintosh and Windows.

Install an Ethernet Card

This process will probably require the assistance of a computing professional. If you are living in the University of Oregon residence halls, you can contact ResNet at 346-4223 to make an appointment for assistance. If you are faculty or staff, contact Information Services' Electronic Shop at 346-3548 for assistance. You may also hire professional hardware technicians for assistance.

If you would like to attempt the installation yourself, follow the directions that came with your Ethernet card.

Install the Ethernet Software

If you are using Windows, you will probably be automatically prompted for the drivers disk after installing the card and restarting.