Plug an Ethernet cable into the network
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The majority of users access the internet using wireless devices, like phones or laptops. These devices connect to the internet using Wi-Fi, wireless signals that broadcast throughout your house. Show But if you've been using the internet for a while — or you have a desktop computer that you don't use Wi-Fi for — you'll probably be using an Ethernet cable instead. Ethernet cables are wires that physically connect your computer to a router or modem. Ethernet cables can seem clunky or restricting, but they can substantially improve the speed and stability of your internet. Here's what you need to know about Ethernet cables, how they work, and what makes them a handy alternative to Wi-Fi. An Ethernet cable 'hardwires' your computer to an internet connectionAn Ethernet cable, sometimes referred to as a network cable, is a cord that runs from a router, modem, or network switch to your computer, giving your device access to the local area network (LAN) — in other words, giving it internet access. The benefit of hardwiring your internet connection is that it's faster and more consistent. Without walls or other objects blocking your Wi-Fi signals, you don't have to worry about sudden drops in internet speed. Gaming with an Ethernet cable means less lag and faster loading times for multiplayer games. And every major game console can connect with an Ethernet port — although to connect a Nintendo Switch, you'll need an adapter.  Like What You're Reading?Sign up for Tips & Tricks newsletter for expert advice to get the most out of your technology. This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. Subscribing to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe from the newsletters at any time.
Your subscription has been confirmed. Keep an eye on your inbox! Sign up for other newslettersAbout Lance WhitneyContributorI've been working for PCMag since early 2016 writing tutorials, how-to pieces, and other articles on consumer technology. Beyond PCMag, I've written news stories and tutorials for a variety of other websites and publications, including CNET, ZDNet, TechRepublic, Macworld, Popular Science, Time, Fortune, US News & World Report, and AARP Magazine. I spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET as one of the site’s East Coast reporters. I've also written two books for Wiley & Sons—Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time and Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn. What does it mean to plug an Ethernet cable into this computer?An Ethernet cable 'hardwires' your computer to an internet connection. An Ethernet cable, sometimes referred to as a network cable, is a cord that runs from a router, modem, or network switch to your computer, giving your device access to the local area network (LAN) — in other words, giving it internet access.
Does an Ethernet cable need to be plugged into a router?In essence, you're linking your computer to the modem through the router. Setting up Wi-Fi? You still need to plug in an Ethernet cable. Even if you're setting up a Wi-Fi network, you'll still need to plug your computer into the router with an Ethernet cable.
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