Network Interface Card

This device allows the computer to communicate with the local network and the Internet.

Principle of operation

Once information is received, it is decrypted and transferred to the memory of the network card. Subsequently, the computer processes the received bytes of information.

Network connection

Network connection of the network interface card (NIC) is made via:

• Twisted pair connector

• Optical Connector (SC, ST, MIcz)

There are one or more information LEDs next to the twisted-pair connector, indicating the presence of connection and information transfer.

Speed

Each NIC has a speed limit. So, if your NIC's maximum speed limit is 100 Mbps, but your ISP gives you a fiber-optic speed of 500 Mbps, then your Internet connection speed will not exceed 100 Mbps. In this case, it is recommended that you replace your outdated NIC with a new one. Modern NICs support Internet connection speeds of up to 1 Gbps.

Types

Internal

Internal NICs can be installed in PCI or PCIe slots on the motherboard.

External

Connects to a PC through the USB connector.

Integrated on the motherboard

Network cable connector (1), which interacts with the on-board network card on the motherboard.

Wireless Network Card

If there is no integrated network card, the computer is required to have a network card for wireless data transfer via Wi-fi. Such network cards with an antenna can be connected to the motherboard via a PCI or PCIe connector, and connected to the PC via a USB connector