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When choosing a network interface card (NIC), consider the speed, interface type, operating system compatibility, intended use, and additional software. NICs come in PCI, PCI Express, and USB interfaces, and some are designed for gaming. Check if your computer already has a NIC before purchasing.
Network interface cards (NICs) are the method by which many personal computers connect to local area networks and later to the Internet. Not all computers rely on these types of network cards, as a variety of wireless connections are in use for networking and connecting to the Internet. To choose the best card, some of the things to consider are the speed of the link, the type of interface to use, the operating system of the computer, the intended use of the NIC, and any additional software that you want to come with the NIC.
When selecting a NIC, one of the first things to check is the speed of the link. Most networks are 10 or 100 megabits, although an increasing number of devices are designed to support 1,000 megabits or one gigabit. These include routers, switches and other similar network devices.
The first step in choosing a network interface card is selecting the right interface. NICs come in several interfaces, including Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI), PCI Express, and Universal Serial Bus (USB). USB-based NICs are external devices that don’t require you to open your computer. Typically, the network interface software is installed and the device is plugged in, then the operating system will detect and install the device and it will be ready to use. PCI and PCI express cards require removing or opening the computer cover and installing the network card in an unused slot.
Next, you should choose a network card that supports the operating system you use. Most cards on the market support Microsoft® Windows®, although newer commercially available cards may not support older versions of Windows®. Not all NICs support Linux or Apple’s Mac OS X, so be sure to choose compatible NIC types when comparison shopping.
Align the type of NIC you choose with your intended use. Most NICS are designed with general purpose features in mind. Some cards are developed with games in mind. These cards generally cost more than regular cards, don’t come in a USB variety, and might only support certain operating systems. These integrated network adapter options are generally designed to reduce latency in games by reducing ping times and reducing the potential for lag.
Some network interface options come with additional software. This could include software to manage connections or monitor the status or integrity of the card. This will help ensure that the NIC is working properly. If you’re looking for this feature, it might be wise to choose a NIC from a reputable manufacturer. Note that additional software typically results in increased purchase costs.
Many computers have network cards on board, which means they are already part of the motherboard. Examine your computer’s ports or check your computer’s documentation to determine if a new card is actually needed. If it is, following these guidelines can help you choose the best one.
