Windows: Activate LAN connection

This article shows you how to activate your computer's LAN connection and establish an Internet connection in Windows 7 and 8 and under XP.

Activate LAN in Windows 7 and 8

To establish a network connection via the LAN cable, proceed as follows:

1. Click on "Start" (Windows button) and then on "Control Panel".
2. Open the so-called "Network and Sharing Center" in the "Network and Internet" category. This is even faster with a right click on the LAN / WLAN symbol in the task bar (see picture).
3. Select the menu "Change adapter settings" on the left side.
4. Now all available network connections (LAN and WLAN) are displayed. Connections that are currently deactivated are indicated by a gray icon.
5. With a right click on the LAN network you can activate the connection in the context menu.

Windows XP: Activate LAN

With Windows XP you proceed in the same way as with Windows 7. Only the names of the menus differ a little:

1. Click on "Start" and "Control Panel".
2. Open the "Network and Internet Connections"> "Network Connections".
3. Here you can right-click to activate the LAN connection.

Another practical tip reads how you can test the speed of the LAN connection. If you need individual help in activating the LAN connection, please contact the experts in the CHIP forum.