A PCI network card can be installed in a desktop computer’s motherboard to connect to a wired or wireless network. Installation is simple, but may require software. Wired cards have Ethernet ports, while wireless cards have antennas and a light to indicate proper function.
A PCI network card is a type of computer hardware that can be installed inside a computer case, directly onto the computer’s motherboard. This type of card is installed in a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) slot on a computer’s motherboard. The network card will then allow the computer to connect directly to one type of network, a wired network using an ethernet cable or similar, or a wireless network, depending on the card. A PCI network card is often used for desktop computers, rather than laptops, as internal installations are easier on a desktop.
Installing a PCI network card in a desktop computer is a fairly simple process and subsequently allows the computer to reliably connect to a network. Many modern motherboards include a port for wired network connectivity, usually via an Ethernet cable, although some do not have such ports. In these types of cases, or where connectivity to a wireless network is preferred, it may be necessary to install the network card inside the computer. This is done by simply opening the computer case, while the computer is off, and inserting the network card directly into a PCI slot on the motherboard.
Once a PCI network card has been installed properly, it may require device drivers and other software. The functionality of this type of card usually depends on the type of card you choose and install. Generally, this will be either a wired card that connects to a network via a physical cable, or a wireless network card that receives a signal to connect to a wireless network. Both types of network card will have the same type of interface area installed in the motherboard, but the exposed backplate on the back of the computer is usually different.
A wired PCI network card will have a port where you can plug an Ethernet cable into the card, while a wireless card will often have a small antenna on the back of the card. This antenna can extend directly from the card itself or it can be connected to the card via a wire, allowing you to place the antenna in the most suitable position to receive a wireless signal. A PCI network card also often has a small light on the back, which is powered by the motherboard and indicates that it is working properly.
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