Randomly a few days ago, my ethernet connection on my computer just stopped appearing. I initially assumed it was an issue with the router/cord, but that was not the case. The WIFI is working fine, and the ethernet cord and connection works for other devices.

So I then went into my device manager, and found the error "Windows cannot initialize the device driver for this hardware. (Code 37)". I tried uninstalling and reinstalling the drivers, using the network troubleshooter, etc. Anyone else had a similar issue? Is it just a hardware malfunction or weird software issue?

I'm not very knowledgeable in the networking world. But IF the Ethernet port IS bad... you can get a NIC for fairly cheap.

Seems to be a common thing recently.
Check your recent windows update, maybe it did an automatic driver update for LAN ( Ethernet ), and you can simply revert it?

If not, then try the fallowing, sometimes the computer can self troubleshoot the minor issues.
Step 1: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
Step 2: Scroll down to find Hardware and Devices, click it and choose Run the troubleshooter.
Step 3: Follow the screen option to get it working.


Sometimes its easier to just lookup the model# of your motherboard, visit manufacturers page, and download the latest driver/drivers for it.
( you can download stuff on a phone), and transfer it onto the computer & install.


Last Resort, install fresh copy of windows.
Otherwise yeah simply getting an additional Ethernet port, or replacing your motherboard might be the last options.

This post was edited by conetopia on Jul 27 2023 05:52pm