It seems you're experiencing issues with your Ethernet connection while installing Windows 11, particularly with driver recognition. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue:
- Check BIOS Settings: Ensure that the Ethernet controller is enabled in the BIOS settings. Sometimes, updates can reset settings.
- Use the Correct Drivers: Since you mentioned that the drivers you have are in
.exeformat, you will need to find the.inffiles for the Realtek Ethernet drivers. You can usually find these on the manufacturer's website (Gigabyte in your case) under the support section for your motherboard model. Look for the LAN drivers specifically. - Prepare Drivers on USB: Once you have the correct drivers, copy the
.inffiles to a USB drive. During the Windows installation, when prompted for drivers, navigate to the USB drive and select the.inffile. This should allow Windows to recognize the Ethernet controller. - Try Different USB Ports: If the USB drive is not being recognized, try using different USB ports, especially USB 2.0 ports, as they are often more compatible during installation.
- Check Physical Connections: Ensure that the Ethernet cable is securely connected to both the motherboard and the router/modem. If possible, test the cable with another device to confirm it is functioning.
- Use Windows PE: If you have access to Windows PE (Preinstallation Environment), you can use it to load drivers before the installation process. This may help in recognizing the Ethernet connection.
If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider reaching out to Gigabyte's support for further assistance or checking their forums for similar issues reported by other users.
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