Ethernet isn't functioning - Updated build - MSI Z790 MAG Tomahawk WIFI (DDR5)
Ethernet isn't functioning - Updated build - MSI Z790 MAG Tomahawk WIFI (DDR5)
Hello everyone, I hope you've found a way through this confusing problem. Let me recount my recent journey with the MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi motherboard, which has been a recurring source of annoyance and hours spent on troubleshooting. First, I upgraded the BIOS to the latest version available from MSI's website. When I initially installed the board, I faced a significant issue—no drivers were present. Consequently, devices like network adapters, audio, Bluetooth, etc., showed up as 'Other devices' in the Device Manager. Accessing the internet became impossible, so I had to boot into Windows in limited mode. Eventually, I used a second PC to download the required network drivers from MSI's site. It’s puzzling whether such difficulties are typical, especially since I didn’t encounter similar issues when setting up my system five years ago. Now, WiFi is working, making the PC functional. However, Ethernet remains elusive. Despite multiple attempts—manually installing drivers from MSI or Intel, using MSI Center’s auto-install, and even trying Intel’s driver support assistant—I haven’t managed a stable connection. The LAN drivers for Windows 10 seem to install without problems; in the Device Manager, the Ethernet adapter appears as 'intel® Ethernet Controller i226-V' under Network Adapters, with no warnings or unknown entries. I’ve tried disabling the device and deleting its drivers each time I attempted fixes. Other drivers work fine—WiFi, audio, etc.—but Ethernet still doesn’t connect. I suspect the cable isn’t faulty, as it’s a standard CAT 6 that worked with my old router. The port lights on the new board flicker amber and green during startup, suggesting activity. It seems unlikely there’s a defective port or motherboard. I’m certain there’s a simple fix I’ve missed—perhaps a BIOS setting was accidentally left enabled that blocks Ethernet, or maybe the router has a minor issue. I value any advice or suggestions you can offer to resolve this. Thank you.
It's typical when Windows 10 lacks drivers for your hardware. You shouldn't think of this as a tough task—just get the network drivers from the source and install them on your new PC. In the control panel, check the "Network Connections" section to see if it indicates any connection attempts.
What is the condition of your Ethernet connection? Has your modem created any restrictions on internet access for a specific MAC address? What IP address was assigned? Were you turning off Wi-Fi during these tests? What information does your modem provide? Is the intranet functional? You mentioned a lot of details, but they don’t clearly describe the issue.
Hello, thank you for your message. I’ve included some pictures to help explain what I’m discussing. It seems the network status on the control panel isn’t showing any activity, and the LEDs at the back aren’t lighting up, which suggests no communication is happening between the device and the router.
Thank you for your feedback. I apologize if my explanation came across as unclear. I attempted to cover as much as possible, though I might have made it a bit complicated. It’s unlikely I have extensive knowledge of this specific scenario. Regarding your questions: 1. I shared some pictures showing the Ethernet connection status. 2. I’m uncertain about the modem and filters but can confirm there have been no problems with other devices. 3. I don’t know how to verify if both PCs share the same IP address, as I haven’t run them together yet. 4. I tried turning off Wi-Fi without success. 5. My modem/router shows all green lights; I’ve reset it a few times and tested different ports. 6. I haven’t set up an intranet network since this is my home PC.
Intranet matches the local network setup. Attempting to link two devices on the same network. When the PC connects via modem, it functions as an instant home network. The problem becomes clear from the attached images—no cable present or recognized. No IP address is assigned, nor is there a valid one. The modem supports random Wi-Fi connections if a password is entered, but blocks any unknown wired links. (My budget ISP provided the modem.) If a family member configured your network or modem, they might be responsible. Unless you were the primary user, this change likely went unnoticed. Sharing an IP can reveal issues; for example, 169.x.x.x is a warning sign. Since nothing has been connected, that’s unlikely. Verify your Ethernet card is enabled in BIOS. If unsure, test with a different cable. Even if this wire works with your modem and another older device, ensure a proper connection. The "not connected" status must be resolved. Also, in the second setting, confirm Wi-Fi remains linked to the network—disable it temporarily and restart to verify everything resets correctly.
Fixed it! Hey brother, I just completed assembling a PC with my friend using the Mag Z790 Tomahawk Wi-Fi. The same issue arose where Ethernet and network adapter drivers were missing. I discovered a complete download pack for Ethernet & Adapter drivers for Windows 10 on Intel’s site: https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/...-pack.html. I copied them onto a thumb drive from another machine and installed them on the new PC without any drivers. After reviewing the files in the “read me” folder, everything appeared correct and I selected auto-run in the main directory, which resolved the connection after restart. You might consider upgrading to Windows 11 for better driver support. Hope this helps. PC specs: https://newegg.io/efa98c1
The USB stick included with the motherboard features Windows 10 and 11 drivers. Insert it and check your current Windows version. Launching it installs quickly—about two seconds—and everything works right away. Here’s a snapshot of the USB drive you’ll find. You’re welcome!