The primary function of a network interface card is to provide a physical link to a computer network. A network card is a physical interface between the computer and the network cable. It converts the data sent by the computer into a form that can be used by the network cable, transfers that data to another computer, and controls the data flow between the computer and the cable.
This connection allows computers to communicate with servers, as well as other computers on the network. It also translates the data coming from the cable into bytes so that the computer’s CPU can read it.
Each network card has a unique serial number, which is called a MAC address. Every computer connected to the network is required to have a unique MAC address that is stored on the network interface card. If you are building a home network or utilizing broadband Web access, your network card or NIC connects you to the outside world.
Related Posts:
What is a Network Card?A network card also called Ethernet card, Network Adapter, Network Interface Card, or NIC. A network card acts as the interface between a computer and the rest of devices that forms the network.
What types of Ethernet cards are there?Ethernet cards are also known as network interface cards or network adapters. Ethernet cards are available in several forms:
ISA cards were the first standard for PCs, requiring users to open their computer case for installation
How to Enable or Disable a Network Adapter?Network adapters can normally be enable or disabled through their software. When a network connection suddenly stops functioning, disabling and re-enabling it can repair the problem.
How to install a PCMCIA Wireless Network Adapter?Most laptops have wireless networking built-in. But if you need to install a wireless network adapter, check out the below instructions:
Insert the wireless card into the available PCMCIA slot of the laptop. There is no need to shut down the laptop.
How to install a USB Network Adapter?A network adapter card is required to connect a computer to a network or Internet. Most computers have wireless networking built-in. Older computers may need to have a network adapter added to them before using them on a network. USB Network adapters can come in different models.
How to install an Internal PCI Network Adapter?Some old desk computers may need a network adapter added to them before be able to access a network. To install and Internal Network Adapter follow the below steps:
Ensure the computer is powered down and unplugged.
How many types of Network Adapters are there?A network adapter interfaces a computer to a network. It is typically a small unit of hardware and can be found in different forms as:
PCI adapters fit inside a desktop personal computer often called simply NIC
