Hello Del! Thank you so much for reaching out, I am Tin, an independent advisor, and I am glad to assist you today with this issue.
It sounds like your Dell XPS 8960's Ethernet issue post-update is related to the Killer E3100G network adapter driver, especially given the Code 31 error in Device Manager. This error indicates that Windows cannot load the driver properly, which can cause network connectivity problems, including the cable detection issue you're experiencing.
Understanding the Root Cause:
Driver Compatibility or Corruption: The recent Windows update (KB5058411) might have introduced compatibility issues or caused corruption in the existing driver.
Incorrect Driver Loading: Even though Windows reports that the driver is up-to-date, it might not be the correct or fully compatible version for your hardware after the update.
Device or Hardware Issue: Less likely if the hardware was working fine before, but hardware issues can't be ruled out entirely.
Here are a few possible solutions:
- Uninstall and Reinstall the Ethernet Driver:
Step 1: Open Device Manager.
Step 2: Locate Killer E3100G 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Controller.
Step 3: Right-click and select Uninstall device.
Step 4: Check Delete the driver software for this device if available.
Step 5: Restart your PC. Windows should attempt to reinstall the driver automatically.
Note: If Windows does not reinstall it automatically, proceed to manually install the latest driver.
- Download and Install the Latest Driver from Dell or Killer:
Visit Dell's support website for your XPS 8960 model: Dell Support
Search for your model and download the latest Ethernet driver.
Alternatively, visit Killer Networking website: Killer Networking Drivers
Install the latest driver manually.
Use Windows' Compatibility Mode (if needed):
If the latest driver isn't working, try installing an earlier version of the driver compatible with your hardware.
- Rollback the Windows Update (if urgent):
If the problem started immediately after the update, consider rolling back the update:
Go to Settings > Windows Update > Update history > Uninstall updates.
Find KB5058411 and uninstall it.
Restart and test the network.
- Check for Additional Windows Updates or Hotfixes:
Sometimes, Microsoft releases patches to fix issues caused by updates. Check for any pending updates.
System Restore (if available):
If you have a restore point from before the update, restoring might fix the issue:
Search for System Restore.
Follow prompts to restore to a point before the update.