The technical name for an Ethernet jack is RJ-45.
Computers can connect to the Internet through a wired network or through a wireless network. Modern ASUS motherboards contain integrated components that enable the computer to detect these networks, but some older motherboards require additional parts to enable the PC to use the Internet. Although these components are central to the function of computer networking, both software and hardware issues can cause network failure.
Basics
An ASUS motherboard requires a network interface controller -- NIC -- also known as a network interface card or network adapter, to communicate with wired networks. NICs feature an Ethernet port that modems or routers connect to via an Ethernet cable. To connect to a wireless network, an ASUS motherboard requires a wireless NIC. As the name indicates, WNICs don't need to use an Ethernet cable to connect to a modem or router, although the latter devices must have wireless capabilities to communicate with the PC.
Network Settings
Often, the source of network failure is not hardware, but software. Certain settings can prevent the computer from seeing available networks. In Network and Sharing Center, accessible from the Control Panel or Start menu, is an option to disable network adapters. Disabling the NIC prevents the OS from connecting to wired networks, just as disabling the WNIC prevents the OS from connecting to wireless networks. If these adapters are disabled, the associated icons will be grayed out. To re-enable the adapter, right-click it, then click "Enable."
Driver Problems
Operating systems send instructions to the NIC and WNIC via device drivers. If the device drivers for these adapters aren't installed, are outdated or contain bugs, network performance may be affected. Device Manager, accessible from the Control Panel, lists the status of the device drivers installed to the operating system. The NIC and WNIC drivers are contained in the section called Network Adapters. Device Manager uses an "!" or "X" symbol to indicate a problem with a device. If either of these symbols appears next to the NIC or WNIC, double-click the device and check the Device Status field to find out what's preventing the adapter from working.
Defective Hardware
If the NIC and WNIC are installed to expansion slots on your ASUS motherboard, then the problem is much less serious. Replace the cards to restore network function to the computer. If the NIC and WNIC cards are integrated into the motherboard, however, and one or both cards stops working, the motherboard might be failing. Install new network adapters to the appropriate slots on the motherboard, then disable the on-board LAN and WLAN in the system setup program, accessible at startup.
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