According to the Ethernet Wiki, Ethernet is used to transport data between different devices such as computers, printers, servers, external hard disk storage, etc. within a closed network. Connected together with a LAN cable and router, various devices form a home network or other network. The Ethernet connection can be used, for example, to view photos from the computer on the TV.

Ethernet is a data transmission technology (such as WLAN) and the Ethernet connection enables data transmission between different devices within a closed network. It does not matter whether the devices are PCs, servers, printers, projectors, Smart TVs or other Ethernet-capable devices. Users can set up Ethernet by clicking on "Network and Sharing Center" in the "Network and Internet" window. Clicking on Connection opens a window with the status "Open Ethernet interface" to connect to Ethernet. Compared to WLAN, Ethernet speed is higher, more stable and achieves a greater range as well as increased security.

An Ethernet cable is required to send and receive data via Ethernet. The term LAN cable is much more commonly used for this. The cables are available in different lengths, see also the search "Ethernet cable 20m" or "Ethernet cable 10m". A network distributor - called an Ethernet switch - is required to use many Ethernet cables. Another option would be an Ethernet splitter, which does not require a power supply, but limits the provision of an additional port to 100 MBit per second and must have two free Ethernet ports.

Ethernet data transmission technology is not radio technology, but is transmitted via LAN cable (Ethernet cable). This is therefore referred to as LAN technology. These so-called twisted pair cables, copper or fiber optic cables are connected to the router to form a network. The term Power over Ethernet (PoE) refers to the supply of power to various network-compatible devices via the LAN cable. This means that the cable not only transmits data, but also supplies power. The power cable can then also be dispensed with for smart home use. If devices do not have an Ethernet port, a USB/Ethernet adapter can help.

The error "Ethernet does not have a valid IP configuration" is displayed after running the Windows troubleshooter for Internet connections. The error may be due to a faulty router, incorrect assignment of an IP address or a network card crash. The following six solution steps can therefore be tried in sequence:

• Check or replace Ethernet cable
• Reinstall network driver
• Reset network settings
• Configuring TCP/IP settings manually
• Restart DHCP service
• Reinstall system

A local, wired computer network - known as Ethernet - requires the right drivers for the network card. The Ethernet controller is responsible for the network and Internet connection. Without the controller, there is no LAN connection and therefore no Internet. If you cannot access the Internet, it may therefore be due to a missing driver for the Ethernet controller.