Many users have reported that their network card is not being detected during Windows Startup. This issue can be caused by various factors including hardware and software issues, driver incompatibility, or outdated drivers.
First, it is important to check the Network Interface Card (NIC) for any physical damage or loose connections. Check the connection port of the NIC, as well as any cables that are connected to it, to make sure everything is securely connected. If everything looks okay, then it is a good idea to check the BIOS settings. In the BIOS, make sure that the expansion card is enabled, and if possible, make sure that the onboard NIC is disabled. If you find that the onboard NIC is still enabled, then disable it and save these changes.
If the NIC is still not being detected, then the next step would be to update the network card driver. It is vital to ensure that you have the latest version of the network card driver installed, as this could be the source of the problem. To update the driver, go to the manufacturer’s website and download the latest version. Alternatively, you can use the Device Manager on your computer to automatically search for the most up-to-date driver. Once the driver has been updated, reboot the computer to check if the NIC is now detected.
If the NIC is still not being detected, then it may be a compatibility issue. Some NICs are not compatible with certain operating systems or computers, so it is important to make sure that your NIC is compatible with the system you are using. Alternatively, it may be that the driver being used is simply not compatible with the NIC. To resolve this, try downloading and installing a different driver.
Another potential cause of this issue is a damaged registry entry. A damaged registry entry could prevent the NIC from being detected by Windows. To fix this, open the Registry Editor and navigate to the following folder: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\services\msafd\parameters\. Look for the LocalName key, right-click on it, select ‘Modify’, and delete any data that is listed in the Value Data field. Save the changes and restart the computer.
Outdated or corrupt drivers can also cause the NIC to be not detected. To resolve this, simply download and install the latest version of the driver. If this does not work, then try downloading a driver for a different version of Windows, as this might work better.
Finally, it is possible that the network card itself is faulty or too old. If this is the case, then the only solution is to purchase a new NIC. Make sure to purchase one that is compatible with the operating system you have installed as well as any other hardware components you have.
In conclusion, a network card may not be detected during Windows startup due to several causes. It is important to check the hardware and BIOS settings, update the driver, and check for compatibility issues in order to resolve this issue. If all else fails, the only other option would be to purchase a new network card.