If your Ethernet driver is missing, you can try the following steps to resolve the issue:
- Check for Drivers: Windows 11 includes a set of drivers for many popular Ethernet devices. You can check if the driver is available by going to Device Manager. If the Ethernet adapter is listed with a yellow exclamation mark, it indicates a driver issue.
- Install Drivers: You can download the latest drivers and firmware for your Surface device from the Microsoft support site. Make sure to install the appropriate driver for your USB 2.0 Ethernet adapter.
- Use Features on Demand: Starting with Windows 11, some drivers are available as Features on Demand (FODs). You can customize your Windows image to include only the drivers that apply to your hardware configuration. If you have removed unnecessary drivers, you may need to add them back using DISM commands.
- Check Network Adapter Settings: Ensure that the Ethernet adapter is enabled in the Network Connections settings. You can access this by right-clicking the network icon in the system tray and selecting "Network & Internet settings".
- Reboot: After installing the drivers, reboot your computer to ensure that the changes take effect.
If you continue to experience issues, consider checking the manufacturer's website for specific drivers for your USB Ethernet adapter.
References: