How do I check for proper network interface card (NIC) defaults?

In order to verify that your Network Interface Card (NIC) is working properly, you may need to check for proper NIC defaults.

To check for proper NIC defaults in Windows 95, 98, and ME:

1. Close all running programs.
2. Right-click on My Computer, which is on your desktop.
3. Click PROPERTIES and then select DEVICE MANAGER.
4. Search for Network Adapters.
5. If you do not see Network Adapters, no NICs have been properly installed.
6. Click on the plus (+) sign next to NETWORK ADAPTERS.
Note: Dial-Up adapter is NOT a NIC, it is used with analog modems.
7. You may see that your card model is superimposed with another icon
· If you see a yellow circle with a black exclamation point, the card has been located by the system, but it is not properly installed.
· If you see a red X, the card is broken.
8. Either flag indicates that that card will not support a network connection.
9. Close the window.

To modify the card's properties:

1. Right-click on NETWORK NEIGHBORHOOD (Windows 95 & 98) or NETWORK PLACES (ME).
2. Select PROPERTIES.
3. Find the same card that you identified earlier, and double-click on its name.
4. Click ADVANCED.
5. You will see two windows under the ADVANCED tab.
6. The left window indicates the Property you wish to change and the right window contains the Values available for the selected setting.