How to Check Ethernet Connectivity by Port

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Easily confirm the status of your Ethernet-based connection.

The most common wired connection found on home desktop computers, Ethernet ports allow you to connect to another single computer, a local network or a broadband modem for Internet connectivity. While most Ethernet jacks illuminate when an active Ethernet connection is plugged in, this is not necessarily a good way to confirm connectivity. In order for a connection between to devices to be successful, a protocol must be established and shared between them. You can quickly confirm Ethernet port connectivity within your network connection's properties window.

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Step 1

Move the cursor upward from the bottom right corner of the screen and select "Settings."

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Step 2

Select your network, which is the first icon in the bottom section of the Settings menu.

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Step 3

Click "View Connection Settings." Examine your current network connections displayed on this screen. If you are connected it says "Connected" beneath the network name. Click the network connection you want to examine.

Step 4

Look at the "IPv4 Address" line. This line contains your IP (Internet Protocol) address. If this line starts with the numbers "169," you are not connected to any other devices or computers. If this line starts with anything else, you are connected to another device or computer.

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Step 5

Click "Copy" if you want to copy the information on this screen to your computer's clipboard. You can then paste it into a document to save or print.

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