How To Troubleshoot A Lan Card

  1. If a widows reports for an error after double clicking the network neighborhood icon try to solve it by following steps:
    • Ensure that you are using the correct prescribed set of drivers and software for that LAN card.
    • Ensure that protocols must be bounded and driver is loaded. Check the properties list of the devices to check which of them are marked with an “X” or “!” symbol indicating the problem.
    • Check the NIC with the utilities which comes by default with the card and driver installation kit.
    • Consult to your LAN administrator Diagnose it by installing additional networking software.
  2. If the problem continues then follow the steps below:
    • Ensure that cable is installed properly. Check that network cable is attached at both RJ45 connections both adaptor and hub. The maximum distance from adapter to hub must not exceed 100 meters. If the problem persists then use cross over cable or try using a different cable.
    • Verify from the LED Lights on the NIC. Insert the NIC card and connect it with the network. Now check the LED present on the NIC. LED is present near the connection. The meaning of the LED differs from manufacturer to manufacturer. Let’s take an example for 3COM 10/100BT dual speed NIC.

LED

Description

Flashing

Steady (On)

Off

10 LNK

Green: Link integrity

Reversed polarity

Good 10BT connection

No connection between NIC & hub

100 LNK

Green: Link integrity

Reversed polarity

Good 100BT connection

No connection between NIC & hub

ACT

Yellow: Port traffic for either speed

Network traffic present

Heavy network traffic

No traffic
  1. During BIOS loading the computer hangs up1.
    • Change or reset the BIOS settings.
    • Always try to use a newer version.
  2. Connection failed but Diagnostics pass.
    • Always use cat5 wiring at 100BT and ensure that network cable is attached firmly.
    • Connect to a 100BT hub or switch at 100BT.
    • Mention correct frame type in NET.CFG file for NetWare.
    • Ensure that duplex mode setting on the adapter matches the setting on the switch.
  3. LED doesn’t light.
    • Ensure that you have loaded the correct drivers.
    • Check for all the connections at the hub or switch and also the adaptor.
    • Try using any another port on the hub or switch.
    • Settings must be matched of adaptor and hub or switch.
    • Use correct type of cable between the adapter and the hub.
  4. The adapter stopped working without apparent cause.
    • Use the diagnostics program to troubleshoot that came with the NIC.
    • Remove and reseat the NIC in the slot properly, or try a different slot.
    • The files related to drivers may be corrupt or missing. Reinstall the drivers after removing them.
  5. The Wake on LAN (WOL) feature is out of order.
    • Ensure that LAN cable is properly inserted and power is being supplied properly.
    • Check BIOS for its WOL setting, as some computers may require configure for WOL.
    • Make sure that network adaptor is fully attached by using a network cable.