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For laptops, in addition to using networks via LAN ports, users can also connect to the internet through Wi-Fi. However, sometimes users need to utilize Ethernet connections (wired connections) to optimize gaming performance or simply to share files and data between computers in a LAN, which can be faster. In such cases where the LAN port is damaged or the laptop lacks a LAN port, it may pose some difficulties. Nonetheless, there are solutions available, and you can still connect to a wired network through a converter device, which is relatively affordable.
Wired Network Connection for LAN-less Laptops
Connecting to Wired Network without a LAN Port on Your Laptop
There are various ways to address the situation where a computer or laptop lacks a LAN port but still needs to connect to a wired network through a USB to LAN converter device.
1. Utilize a Docking Station to Connect to Your Laptop via USB
With this method, you'll need to purchase a Dock Station to connect to your laptop via USB. When this device is connected to your laptop, you'll be provided with an additional 4 USB 2.0 ports, 1 additional Ethernet port, 1 DVI port, and 1 HDMI port.
With the addition of an extra Ethernet port, naturally, you'll utilize it for wired networking and proceed with your tasks as usual.
Currently, the price of the Dock Station is quite high, approximately 99 USB (over 2 million VND). If you're unable to afford it or don't genuinely require this device, consider exploring the next solution in section 2 below.
2. Utilize a USB-to-Ethernet 2.0 conversion cable
This device is currently compatible with most operating systems such as Windows, MAC, Linux, and performs well on various devices like Chromebook, Surface Pro, smartphones, and Android tablets.
If the device fails to automatically detect the driver when plugged into the laptop, you'll need to install the USB to LAN converter driver to ensure stable wired networking. Once the laptop recognizes the converter device, you can then connect the Ethernet cable for usage. You can install the driver using the accompanying disk if your converter device comes with one. Alternatively, you can download the driver from the internet on another computer, ensuring it's the correct driver for your device and compatible with the operating system you're using.
After installing the driver, the device will be recognized by the laptop. Simply plug the LAN cable into the USB to LAN converter, and you'll hear a click sound when plugging in the cable. Additionally, the converter's light will turn red, indicating successful wired network connection.
3. Utilize a USB-to-Ethernet 3.0 conversion cable
If you're seeking faster transmission speeds, you can opt for the USB to LAN 3.0 standard, albeit at a higher cost (around 400 thousand VND or more). This device is relatively new, thus it may have limitations in terms of compatibility, such as lack of support for gaming consoles, desktops, and certain older laptop models.
Using USB-to-Ethernet 3.0 is just as straightforward as 2.0! Simply plug it into your laptop for device recognition. If your machine fails to recognize it, you may need to install additional drivers for the device to function properly.
Additionally, by default, Windows prioritizes Ethernet connections over Wi-Fi. However, if your machine doesn't adhere to this behavior, follow these steps:
Right-click on the network icon in the system tray -> select Open Network and Sharing Center -> Change adapter Settings. Then, press the Alt key to reveal the hidden menu, and select Advanced -> Advanced settings.
In Connections, move the Local Area Connection above Wireless Network Connection to ensure correct network connection sequencing. This method can be applied to desktop computers as well if, unfortunately, the port is damaged.
So there you have it, the answer to the question How to connect to a wired network when your laptop lacks an Ethernet port! Using a USB to LAN adapter is even more popular now, and it's not too expensive to acquire. Therefore, it's a suitable solution to ensure stable wired connectivity even when your laptop doesn't have an Ethernet port.
Furthermore, if your laptop fails to recognize the wired network despite the LAN port being intact, the issue may be related to the internet connection or network card drivers. Refer to the steps to fix laptop not detecting wired network here for troubleshooting and resolution!
