A LAN card is hardware that functions to connect a computer to a local network or the internet. LAN cards are usually installed in the PCI or PCIe slot on the motherboard. However, the LAN card can also be damaged, causing the computer to not be able to connect to the network.
LAN cards play an important role in the data communication process between computers and the network. The LAN card is responsible for sending and receiving data packets, converting digital signals into electrical signals and vice versa, as well as encoding and decoding data. LAN cards also support network protocols such as TCP/IP, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi.
LAN Card Type
A LAN card is hardware used to connect a computer to a local network (LAN). LAN cards have the function of sending and receiving data from the network. There are several different types of LAN cards, including:
PCI LAN Card
This type of LAN card utilizes the PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) slot on the computer motherboard. PCI LAN Cards generally provide optimal speed and broad compatibility with various operating systems. Its use still requires an empty PCI slot on the motherboard.
PCI Express LAN Card
This type of LAN Card uses a PCI Express slot which is more sophisticated and efficient compared to traditional PCI slots. PCI Express LAN Cards offer higher data transfer speeds and are the ideal choice for users who want maximum performance.
USB LAN Card
USB LAN Cards are specifically designed for use on computers that are not equipped with a PCI or PCI Express slot. This type of card can be easily connected via a USB port on a computer. However, USB LAN Cards generally have lower data transfer speeds compared to PCI or PCI Express LAN Cards.
Wireless LAN Card
Wireless LAN Card, also known as WLAN Card, allows wireless connection to a local network. This type of LAN card uses technology such as Wi-Fi to connect computers to a network. Wireless LAN Cards are very useful in situations where users want to connect to a network without using physical cables.
Built-in LAN Card
Some modern computers are equipped with a LAN card that is integrated directly into the motherboard. This LAN Card is known as a Built-in LAN Card or Onboard LAN Card.
How to Choose the Right LAN Card
There are several things that need to be considered in choosing the right LAN card, including:
Data transfer speed
LAN cards have different data transfer speeds, ranging from 10 Mbps to 10 Gbps. The higher the data transfer speed, the faster the communication between the computer and the network. However, data transfer speed also depends on the type of cable and other network devices used. Therefore, you should choose a LAN card that complies with existing network standards.
Interface type
LAN cards have different types of interfaces, such as PCI, PCI Express, USB, and others. This interface type determines how to install the LAN card in the slot or port available on the computer. It's best to choose a LAN card that matches the type of interface on your computer, so you don't need to use an adapter or converter.
Driver compatibility
A driver is software that functions to recognize and operate a LAN card. Before buying a LAN card, make sure that the driver is compatible with the operating system you are using. You can check driver compatibility by reading the product specifications or visiting the official website of the LAN card manufacturer.
Price and guarantee
LAN card prices vary depending on the brand, quality and features offered. You can compare LAN card prices from various sources, such as online shops, offline stores, or discussion forums. Apart from that, also pay attention to the guarantee provided by the LAN card manufacturer or seller. A guarantee can be useful if there is damage or problems with the LAN card you purchased.
How to Repair a LAN Card
What are the causes and how to repair a damaged LAN card? The following are some tips that you can try.
Check LAN cables and ports
Dirty, loose, or damaged LAN cables and ports can disrupt the connection between the LAN card and the network. You can clean the LAN cable and port with a soft cloth or soft brush, and make sure the LAN cable and port are installed properly. If the LAN cable or port is damaged, you must replace it with a new one.
Check the LAN Card driver
Drivers are software that function to recognize and operate hardware. If the LAN card driver is not installed, is not suitable, or is not up to date, the LAN card will not function properly. You can check the LAN card driver via Device Manager in Windows, and install, remove, or update the driver as needed.
Check network settings
Incorrect network settings can cause the computer to not be able to connect to the network. You can check network settings via the Control Panel in Windows, and set the IP address, subnet mask, gateway, DNS, etc. according to the network you are using.
Check the physical condition of the LAN Card
If the steps above don't work, your LAN card is most likely physically damaged due to excessive heat, dust, impact, or other factors. You can open the computer casing and check the physical condition of the LAN card, such as broken, melted or burned components. If your LAN card is physically damaged, you must replace the LAN card with a new one.
These are some tips on how to repair a damaged LAN card. Hopefully useful and good luck.
