Desktop Motherboard Ethernet Interface: Network driver power-state fault | Auckland
Pattern to record: Network works after restart but disappears after sleep or undocking.
Separate the adapter from the network
For motherboard Ethernet, separate the physical link from Windows configuration. Record the board model, link speed and switch-port behaviour; successful Wi-Fi access does not test the wired controller. One possible explanation is that the adapter does not resume correctly from a low-power state.
Link and configuration checks
- Test a known switch and cable, inspect port magnetics and compare pre-boot and Windows detection.
- Compare driver history, power settings and cold versus resumed operation.
Before internal work
Lightning or surge damage can extend beyond the visible network port. Disabling every power feature can reduce battery life without fixing firmware.
Verify the network path
If the checks support this cause, install the correct stable driver or firmware and adjust only supported power settings. Verification should cover cold start, negotiated speed, sustained transfer, restart and wake-on-LAN if used.
For an assessment of your desktop computer, contact AEPC in Burswood or call 027 908 8880. Provide the model and the conditions that reproduce this problem. Workshop visits are by appointment.