In a word, a network adapter allows an electronic device to interface with a local computer network. Computer local area network (LAN) connection with the outside world is by inserting a network interface board to the mainframe (or insert a PCMCIA card in laptops). Network interface board is also known as communication adapter or network adapter or network Interface Card NIC, but more and more people are willing to use its simple name "Network Card". 

What is network adapter?

Network adapter, also called a "network interface card" (NIC), a network adapter is a plug-in card that enables a computer to transmit and receive data on a local network. Today, the term refers to an Ethernet adapter, although in the past, Token Ring, LocalTalk and FDDI networks were used. A network adapter may also refer to a Wi-Fi adapter (see wireless adapter). Ethernet circuitry is built onto the motherboard of every new desktop and laptop computer, and plug-in cards (NICs) are generally only used in servers and high-end workstations.

Types of Network Adapters

Wireless network adapter: many new computers contain integrated (built in) wireless network adapter chips;

USB network adapter: A USB network adapter plugs into a standard USB port to enable computer network connections (typically Wi-Fi or Ethernet);

Wireless game adapter: A wireless game adapter (sometimes called a "media adapter") connects to an Xbox or Playstation game console or other home entertainment product, providing a bridge to Wi-Fi wireless capability;

PCI adapter: On older PCs,a PCI adapter (often called a NIC) was a type of add-in card installed inside a desktop personal computer. A variant PCI adapter called "PC Card" (also known as PCMCIA cards) inserted into the side of a notebook computer to provide similar capability;

Virtual Network Adapters: Certain types of network adapters have no hardware component but rather consist of software only. These are often called virtual adapters in contrast to a physical adapter. Virtual adapters are commonly found in virtual private networks (VPNs). A virtual adapter may also be used with research computers or IT servers that run virtual machine technology.

After learning the definition and types of network adapter, however, it is very important to know how to determine whether a network adapter is present in your computer, follow the tips as bellow and you’ll get the answer.

Generally speaking, newer computers often include a network adapter when sold. 

• In desktop computer: look for an RJ-45 jack on the back of the computer. The RJ-45 jack appears similar to a phone line jack but is slightly larger.
• In notebook computers: look for a thin, removable metal device roughly the size of credit card, but thicker.
• For notebook computers running Windows that may contain integrated adapter chips, open the Windows Device Manager. Device Manager can be accessed from the Hardware tab of the System Properties section of Windows Control Panel.
• In any type of computing device, look for a small external device with LED lights connected to a USB port

Now you have already known how to determine whether network adapter is present, but there is a problem you may encounter: windows could not find a driver for your network adapter, please the following steps may get you rid of this trouble.

Check to see if an updated driver is available.

1. Do one of the following, depending on which version of Windows your PC is running;

2. In Device Manager, double-click Network adapters, right-click your adapter, and then select Properties;

3. Select the Driver tab, and then select Update Driver.

Mostly Built In

Ethernet circuitry is built onto the motherboard of every new desktop and laptop computer. Plug-in cards (NICs) may be used in desktop computers when a faster Ethernet standard debuted that is not built in. See Ethernet adapter, Token Ring, LocalTalk, FDDIand OSI model.

Where to Buy Network Adapters

Network adapters are available from many manufacturers, most of which also have routersand other network hardware. Some network adapter manufacturers include D-Link, Linksys, NETGEAR, TP-Link, Rosewill, and ANEWKODI.

How to Get Device Drivers for Network Adapters

Windows and other operating systems support both wired and wireless network adapters through software called a device driver. Network drivers are necessary for software programs to interface with network hardware.

Some network device drivers are installed automatically when the network adapter is first plugged in and powered on.

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A wireless network adapter looks similar to a memory stickor thumb drive: a small USB donglewith an LED light that indicates power and operability. Upon plugging it in, it will scan the airwaves for local broadcasts, working with system softwareto display the names of local networks for the user. Click the name of the network you wish to join, and supply credentials as needed. That’s all it takes to surf wirelessly. The next time you boot, the device will automatically log you into the network of choice.

Most laptop computers come with a built-in WiFi® card, or wireless network card, but there are times when the supplied card won’t do. This is especially true when wireless standards are changing from one protocol to a newer, faster protocol. Older cards that only support the older protocol will not work with routers that only support the newer, faster standard. As of this writing, the current wireless standard is 802.11n, which is replacing the older 802.11g standard.

When the internal network card doesn’t support the desired standard, an alternative to an external adapter is to replace the internal card with a newer card. This is easy to do on a desktop computer, but not so easy on a laptop or notebook. Just getting to the card might entail more disassembly of the machine than many people are comfortable with. Moreover, opening a laptop can void the warranty. It’s usually easier all the way around to opt for an external network adapter.

When shopping for a network adapter, there is little to watch for except support for the desired protocols. These handy little devices can be found nearly everywhere, from the local discount department store to your favorite online retailers.

Summary

The network adapter is an essential component in both wired and wireless computer networking. Installing a network adapter is not difficult and often is a simple "plug and play" feature of the computer operating system. The information of network adapter we mentioned above, did you get it?