How to install Realtek PCIe Ethernet Controller windows and Linux

The Realtek PCIe Ethernet Controller program covers a wide range of Network Interface Controllers (NICs) that support different Ethernet speeds. Here's an overview of some of the mentioned models:

1. 5G Gigabit Ethernet Controllers:

RTL8126: Supports Ethernet connections with speeds up to 5Gbps via PCI Express interface.

2. 2.5G Gigabit Ethernet Controllers:

RTL8125 / RTL8125B(G): Offers connection speeds of up to 2.5Gbps, making it ideal for applications that require higher bandwidth than 1Gbps.

3. 10/100/1000M Gigabit Ethernet Controllers:

RTL8111 (various versions such as B, C, D, E, F, etc.): These controllers are widely used and support speeds up to 1Gbps, designed for PCI Express interface.

RTL8168: Similar to the RTL8111 series, it supports 1Gbps Ethernet speeds.

RTL8111DP/EP(P)/FP: These versions provide additional features for applications requiring enhanced security and reliability.

4. Fast Ethernet Controllers (10/100Mbps):

RTL8101E/8102E/8103E: These controllers are used in devices that require lower speeds, up to 100Mbps.

RTL8401/8402: Similar versions that also support speeds up to 100Mbps.

These controllers are designed to meet various needs, from home devices to advanced networking infrastructure, with a focus on speed, performance, and PCIe interface support.

Installing and Using Realtek PCIe Ethernet Controllers:

To install and use Realtek PCIe Ethernet network controllers, follow these steps to ensure that your system recognizes and uses the controller efficiently:

• 1. Identify the Right Controller: Before beginning, ensure you know the model of your controller (e.g., RTL8125 or RTL8111). This will help you download the correct drivers.

• 2. Download the Drivers: Go to Realtek's official website by searching online or visiting the Realtek support page. Look for the Ethernet Controllers or Network Interface Controllers section.

Find the correct driver for your model (such as RTL8125 or RTL8111), and download the latest available driver for your operating system (Windows, Linux, macOS).

• 3. Installing the Driver:

For Windows:

• 1. Extract the downloaded file if compressed, and open the installer file (usually a .exe).

• 2. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

• 3. Restart your computer after installation to ensure the changes take effect.

For Linux:

• 1. Some distributions may already have built-in support for these controllers, but if you need to install the driver manually, download it from the Realtek website.

• 2. Open the terminal and navigate to the folder where the driver is stored.

• 3. Run the following commands:

tar -xvf drivername.tar.gz

cd drivername

sudo make install

• 4. Restart your system after installation.

4. Verifying Installation:

For Windows:

• 1. Open Device Manager by clicking Start and typing "Device Manager."

• 2. Look for the "Network Adapters" section and check if the controller is listed.

• 3. Right-click the controller and select "Properties" to check its status. If you see "This device is working properly," the installation was successful.

For Linux:

• 1. Run the following command to check if the controller is recognized:

lspci | grep Ethernet

• 2. You can also use:

ifconfig

or

ip a

to check if the device is connected to the network.

• 5. Connecting to the Network: After successful installation, connect the Ethernet cable to the device with the controller. Check the network connection by ensuring that the network icon in the operating system shows an active connection.

You can test the connection by trying to access the internet or running a command like:

ping google.com

• 6. Driver Updates: Periodically visit the official Realtek website to check for driver updates, as updates often improve performance and address security issues.

If you encounter problems during installation or use, check the system's event log for potential errors or contact Realtek support for assistance.

Read more:

1. Download Motherboard Realtek Lan Driver