Question:

“As an expert, could you provide guidance on resolving a persistent network issue on a Windows 11 system? Despite being connected via Ethernet and having ruled out cable defects, the internet connection sporadically drops to 10% of its usual speed or disconnects entirely. The temporary solution is to either reboot the PC or reset the network adapter, which restores functionality for a period ranging from 1 to 8 hours. This problem persists even after a factory reset and driver updates. The motherboard in use is the X570 AORUS MASTER. Is there a known resolution to this issue that doesn’t require the purchase of a Wi-Fi card?”

Answer:

Network connectivity problems can be particularly frustrating, especially when they disrupt your workflow. Users of Windows 11 have reported issues where their Ethernet connection drops significantly or disconnects entirely, only to be temporarily resolved by restarting the network adapter or the PC. This article aims to provide expert guidance on troubleshooting and resolving these persistent network issues without resorting to purchasing additional hardware.

Introduction:

A stable internet connection is crucial for the seamless operation of any computer system. However, some users of Windows 11, particularly those with the X570 AORUS MASTER motherboard, have encountered a recurring problem where their Ethernet connection either slows down drastically or disconnects completely. The issue seems to be temporarily fixable by resetting the network adapter or rebooting the computer, but the problem reoccurs within hours.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1.

Update Network Drivers:

Ensure that you have the latest drivers for your network adapter. Visit the motherboard manufacturer’s website to download the most recent drivers.

2.

Check Power Management Settings:

Sometimes, the network adapter is set to turn off to save power. Go to Device Manager, right-click on your network adapter, select ‘Properties’, and under the ‘Power Management’ tab, uncheck the option that allows the computer to turn off the device to save power.

3.

Network Troubleshooter:

Run the built-in Windows Network Troubleshooter to automatically detect and resolve issues.

4.

Reset Network Settings:

Use the ‘Network reset’ feature in Windows 11 to reinstall network devices and set everything back to original settings.

5.

Check for Hardware Issues:

Although you’ve ruled out cable defects, it’s worth checking if another device on the same network experiences similar issues. If not, the problem might be with the PC’s hardware.

6.

BIOS Update:

An outdated BIOS can sometimes cause compatibility issues. Check for a BIOS update for your motherboard.

7.

Disable Auto-Tuning:

Windows has a feature called ‘Auto-Tuning’ which optimizes data transfer rates. However, it can sometimes cause issues. Disable it by running the following command in Command Prompt as an administrator: “` netsh int tcp set global autotuninglevel=disabled “`

8.

Check for Interference:

Ensure there’s no interference from other devices. Try changing the Ethernet port on the router or switch to a different one.

Conclusion:

Persistent network issues can stem from a variety of causes, from software conflicts to hardware malfunctions. By methodically going through the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can identify and resolve the problem without the need for additional hardware like a Wi-Fi card. If the issue persists, it may be indicative of a deeper hardware problem, in which case consulting with a professional or the motherboard manufacturer may be necessary.

Disclaimer:

The solutions provided in this article are based on common troubleshooting methods and should be followed with caution. It’s recommended to back up important data before making any significant changes to your system settings. If you’re uncomfortable performing any of these steps, please seek assistance from a qualified technician.