If a downgrade removed your network driver, restore connectivity from another device: identify the exact PC and Windows build, download the matching driver from the computer or adapter manufacturer, copy it to a USB drive, and install it offline. If the PC has Ethernet, a temporary cable connection can let Windows Update retrieve drivers. Use Network reset, rollback, or a reinstall only after you understand what each option removes.
First determine what “downgrade” did
Two different events are commonly called a downgrade, and the recovery choices are not the same:
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- Go back (rollback): Windows removes the newer installation and restores the previous version using rollback files. Microsoft says this is usually available for 10 days after an upgrade, provided those files still exist.
- Reinstallation or clean installation: Windows is installed again from generic or manufacturer media. This can remove applications, settings, customizations and, depending on the choices made, personal files.
A rollback normally keeps personal files, but it removes apps and drivers added after the upgrade and resets settings. A clean installation is more disruptive and can leave you with only the drivers included in the installation media. Start with driver recovery whenever the computer still boots; reserve reinstalling for a damaged or unusable installation.
What you need before downloading anything
Do not install a driver merely because its name resembles your computer’s model. A package for a different revision, adapter, Windows edition or build may fail or create new problems. Gather these details first:
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- 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡-𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐔𝐒𝐁 𝐄𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐭 𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 - UE306 is a USB 3.0 Type-A to RJ45 Ethernet adapter that adds a reliable wired network port to your laptop, tablet, or Ultrabook. It delivers fast and stable 10/100/1000 Mbps wired connections to your computer or tablet via a router or network switch, making it ideal for file transfers, HD video streaming, online gaming, and video conferencing.
- 𝐔𝐒𝐁 𝟑.𝟎 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫, 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐚 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐬- Powered via USB 3.0, this adapter provides high-speed Gigabit Ethernet without the need for external power(10/100/1000Mbps). Backward compatible with USB 2.0/1.1, it ensures reliable performance across a wide range of devices.
- 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐍𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐨 𝐒𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐜𝐡- Easily connect your Nintendo Switch to a wired network for faster downloads and a more stable online gaming experience compared to Wi-Fi.
- 𝐏𝐥𝐮𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲- No driver required for Nintendo Switch, Windows 11/10/8.1/8, and Linux. Simply connect and enjoy instant wired internet access without complicated setup.
- 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲- Supports Nintendo Switch, PCs, laptops, Ultrabooks, tablets, and other USB-powered web devices; works with network equipment including modems, routers, and switches.
- The computer manufacturer and exact model or product number.
- The Windows edition, version and build currently installed. In Windows 11, open Settings > System > About. In Windows 10, open Settings > System > About.
- The network adapter name, if it appears under Device Manager > Network adapters.
- If the adapter is shown as an unknown device, open its Properties, select the Details tab, choose Hardware Ids, and record the values shown.
The hardware ID is particularly useful when a downgrade has replaced the visible adapter name with “Unknown device.” Give the model, Windows edition/build and hardware ID to the manufacturer’s support search rather than guessing from a photograph or a similar model number.
Restore the network driver without internet access
1. Use a second device to obtain the package
On a working computer or phone, open the official support page for the PC manufacturer or the network-adapter manufacturer. Select the exact model and the Windows version now installed, then download the network driver. If several network packages are offered, match the adapter name or hardware ID you recorded. Save the complete download, not just a shortcut to the support page.
2. Transfer the files by USB
Copy the downloaded file to a USB flash drive. Move the drive to the affected PC and copy the package to a local folder such as C:DriversNetwork. Keeping a local copy matters because setup programs can fail if the removable drive is unplugged during installation.
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3. Install a supplied setup program
If the manufacturer provides an executable installer, open it from the copied folder and follow its prompts. Accept a restart when requested. Do not run several different network-driver installers “just in case”; install the package that matches the adapter and build.
Rank #2
- Connects a USB 3.0 device (computer/laptop) to a router, modem, or network switch to deliver Gigabit Ethernet to your network connection. Does not support Smart TV or gaming consoles (e.g.Nintendo Switch).
- Supported features include Wake-on-LAN function, Green Ethernet & IEEE 802.3az-2010 (Energy Efficient Ethernet)
- Supports IPv4/IPv6 pack Checksum Offload Engine (COE) to reduce Cental Processing Unit (CPU) loading
- Compatible with Windows 8.1 or higher, Mac OS
4. Add an INF-only driver with PnPUtil
Some packages contain driver information files (INF files) rather than a graphical installer. Extract the download first, then confirm the actual USB drive letter and folder path. Open Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin) and run:
pnputil /add-driver "E:DriversNetwork*.inf" /subdirs /installReplace E:DriversNetwork with the folder that contains the extracted INF files. The /subdirs option searches child folders; /install asks Windows to install the best matching package. If PnPUtil reports that no driver was added, recheck the path, extraction step, hardware ID and Windows-version compatibility. Restart after a successful installation.
5. Confirm the result
Open Device Manager again and expand Network adapters. The correct adapter should have a normal device name rather than an unknown-device entry. Then check the taskbar network icon and try a known working network. If the adapter is listed but still cannot connect, continue with the wired and Windows troubleshooting steps below instead of repeatedly reinstalling unrelated packages.
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If the computer has an Ethernet port, connect it directly to a working router or network switch with a known-good cable. A wired connection can provide enough access for Windows Update to obtain the remaining drivers.
Rank #3
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- COMPACT DESIGN - The compact-designed portable BENFEI USB A/C to Ethernet adapter connects your computer or tablet to a router,modem or network switch for network connection. It adds a standard RJ45 port to your Ultrabook, notebook or Macbook Air for file transferring, video conferencing, gaming, and HD video streaming.
- SUPERIOR STABILITY - Built-in advanced IC chip works as the bridge between RJ45 Ethernet cable and your USB A/C devices. The driver-free installation with native driver support in Chrome, Mac, and Windows OS; The USB A/C Ethernet adapter dongle supports important performance features including Wake-on-Lan (WoL), Full-Duplex (FDX) and Half-Duplex (HDX) Ethernet, Crossover Detection, Backpressure Routing, Auto-Correction (Auto MDIX).
- INCREDIBLE PERFORMANCE - Supports full 10/100/1000Mbps gigabit ethernet performance over USB A/C's 5Gbps bus, faster and more reliable than most wireless connections. Link and Activity LEDs. USB powered, no external power required. Backward compatible with USB 2.0/1.1.✅ To reach 1Gbps, make sure to use CAT6 & up Ethernet cables.
- BROAD COMPATIBILITY - The USB A/C-Ethernet adapter is compatible with Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP, Mac OSX 10.6/10.7/10.8/10.9/10.10/10.11/10.12, Linux kernel 3.x/2.6, Android and Chrome OS.Compatible with IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u and IEEE 802.3ab. Supports IEEE 802.3az (Energy Efficient Ethernet).❌Do Not Support Windows RT. (NOT compatible with Nintendo Switch.)
- 18 MONTH WARRANTY - Exclusive BENFEI Unconditional 18-month Warranty ensures long-time satisfaction of your purchase; Friendly and easy-to-reach customer service to solve your problems timely.
If the computer has no Ethernet port, Microsoft says a USB-to-Ethernet adapter may be considered. Compatibility is not universal: check that the adapter supports the computer’s USB connection and the Windows version installed before buying or borrowing one. Once connected, allow Windows a moment to detect it, then open Windows Update. This is a temporary way to get online, not evidence that every USB network adapter will work on every downgraded system.
Finish driver repair after you are online
Windows Update: the preferred route
Microsoft recommends Windows Update for driver updates. In Windows 11, open Settings > Windows Update and select Check for updates. In Windows 10, open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates. Install available driver and quality updates, restart, and check again; some hardware drivers appear only after the first restart.
Device Manager: update or reinstall the actual adapter
In Device Manager, right-click the network adapter that is actually installed and choose Update driver. You can let Windows search automatically, or point it to the folder copied from the USB drive. If the device is present but its installation is damaged, choose Uninstall device, restart, and then let Windows reinstall it or run the manufacturer package again. Do not apply a Bluetooth, chipset or display package to an unknown network device simply because it is available in the download list.
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When Windows Update finds nothing
Windows Update may have no package for a specific adapter or for the build you installed. Return to the manufacturer’s support page and verify the model, edition and build. If the manufacturer supplies separate Wi-Fi and Ethernet packages, install only the one corresponding to the connection you need, then restart and test it.
Rank #4
- Dual USB-A/C Port Design: This USB hub with ethernet adapter features dual connectors for both USB C and USB A devices, ensuring wide compatibility across laptops, tablets, and smartphones. It includes 1x Gigabit Ethernet port and 3x USB A 3.0 ports, all usable at the same time for smooth and efficient connectivity. 📌Note: When using USB-A to connect devices, please ensure the USB-C is securely attached to the USB-A connector.
- Stable Gigabit Ethernet Adapter: Get fast, wired Internet up to 1000Mbps with this USB C to ethernet adapter. Backward compatible with 10/100Mbps networks for flexible connectivity across various setups. Ideal for streaming, gaming, and large file transfers. 📌Note: Ensure the RJ45 connector is plugged in securely in the port and use CAT6 & above Ethernet cable is required to reach 1 Gbps.
- 5Gbps Data Transfer: Transfer large files, photos, and videos in seconds with this USB 3.0 hub supporting speeds up to 5Gbps—10× faster than USB 2.0. Backward compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.1 devices, this USB splitter expands one port into three for connecting keyboards, mice, and flash drives for everyday use. 📌Note: The three USB-A 3.0 ports share a total 5Gbps bandwidth.【NO HDMI port, NO USB-C data port, and NO PD charging】
- Plug and Play: Reliable USB to ethernet adapter ready to use in seconds. Instantly connects with USB-A and USB-C devices including MacBook Pro/Air, iPad Pro, iMac, Surface Laptops, Chromebook, XPS, tablets, Steam, and smartphones. Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS, and Android. 📌XP/Win7 may need driver. Older systems may not recognize this product due to its USB 3.0 chip. Please refer to the “Installation Manual” to manually download and install the driver.
- Durable & Portable Build: Made with sturdy aluminum alloy, this RJ45 to USB-C adapter delivers long-term durability, efficient heat dissipation, and stable performance for offices, corporate deployments, classrooms, and campus workstations—while its slim, portable form factor makes it ideal for business travel, educators, and mobile professionals.
Choose the least destructive recovery option
| Option | When it fits | What it changes | Main caution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Offline USB driver transfer | No network access, but Windows still starts and another device is available | Installs a model-specific network package; personal files and applications remain | The package must match the adapter and Windows build |
| Temporary Ethernet | Wi-Fi is missing but the PC has, or can use, a compatible wired adapter | Provides a connection for Windows Update and downloads | USB-to-Ethernet compatibility is model- and OS-dependent |
| Windows Update or Device Manager | The adapter is detected and the PC is online | Updates or reinstalls the selected device driver | It cannot install a driver when the hardware is not identified or no suitable package exists |
| Network reset | Drivers are present but network configuration remains broken after ordinary fixes | Removes installed network adapters and settings, then reinstalls the adapters after restart | VPN and virtual-switch software may need to be configured again |
| Go back to the previous Windows version | The downgrade was an unwanted upgrade and rollback files remain | Keeps personal files but removes apps and drivers added after the upgrade and resets settings | Usually available for only 10 days |
| Manufacturer recovery media | Windows is seriously damaged or a clean reinstall is unavoidable | Restores a factory-style image, often including hardware-specific drivers and factory applications | Back up files first; the process can remove applications, settings and data |
| Generic installation media | No manufacturer recovery image is available | Reinstalls Windows from broad-purpose media | May omit hardware-specific drivers and customizations and can require substantial reconfiguration |
Network reset is a late step, not a driver replacement
Use Network reset only after the adapter driver is installed and ordinary connection troubleshooting has failed. In Windows 11, go to Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset. In Windows 10, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network reset. Confirm the reset and restart when Windows requests it.
The reset removes installed network adapters and their settings and reinstalls the adapters after the restart. Microsoft warns that VPN clients and virtual-switch software may need to be set up again. Because it changes configuration rather than supplying a missing manufacturer driver, it will not solve an unknown adapter with no compatible package.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When rolling back is safer than continuing the downgrade
If the loss of connectivity began immediately after an upgrade and the old installation is still available, check the rollback option before performing a clean install. In Windows 11, open Settings > System > Recovery and look for Go back. In Windows 10, open Settings > Update & Security > Recovery and look for the same option.
Microsoft describes the usual availability period as 10 days, but the control can disappear earlier if rollback files were removed. The process preserves personal files, yet applications and drivers installed after the upgrade are removed and settings are reset. Record any newly installed software and back up important files before starting; a rollback is not a substitute for a current backup.
Best Value
- [Expansion Ports] The USB C to Ethernet Adapter expands the device to three USB 3.0 ports and one Gigabit Ethernet port. Provides you more peripheral ports while maintaining a stable network connection, plug and play, no driver required.
- [Gigabit Network Port] ALL-LUCKY USB Ethernet Adapter transmission rate up to 1000Mbps, also compatible with 10/100Mbps bandwidth. It allows you to enjoy a smooth and stable network connection and avoid too much lag. (Note: To reach 1Gbps, please use CAT6 or above Ethernet cable connection)
- [Convertible Connector]This usb hub with ethernet not only has USB-A connector, but also can be converted to USB-C connector, so that you can easily convert the connector according to the device port, improve the convenience of use.
- [High-Speed Data Transfer] The usb to ethernet adapter adopts USB 3.0 transmission technology, supports up to 5Gbps transmission rate, and is compatible with USB 2.0(480Gbps),USB 1.0(12Mbps), easily transfer video, files and other data for you in seconds. (Note: Maximum output current is 900mA, does not support charging devices.)
- [Widely Compatible]The usb c ethernet adapter for iMac, MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, XPS and many other devices. Compatible with Windows 11/10/8.1/8, Mac OS, iPad OS, Chrome OS.（Note: Driver is required on Win 7） It can be used in office, school, library and other occasions, compact and portable, easy to carry around.
If a reinstall is unavoidable
Prefer the manufacturer’s recovery image when hardware drivers matter
Manufacturer recovery images are designed for a particular PC family and typically include hardware-specific drivers and factory applications. That makes them the better compatibility choice when a generic installation left you without networking or other devices. Obtain the recovery instructions for the exact model and follow its backup requirements.
Understand generic installation media
Microsoft’s installation-media guidance specifies a blank USB flash drive with at least 8 GB of space for creating media and warns that its contents are deleted during creation. Use a drive whose contents have already been backed up. Generic media can remove personal files, applications, customizations and settings depending on the installation path, and it may not contain every driver supplied by the PC manufacturer.
Before reinstalling, copy documents and other irreplaceable files to separate storage, record application licenses and export any required settings. After installation, use another device or temporary Ethernet to install the exact network driver, then run Windows Update and Device Manager checks.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Windows 10 support status matters after recovery
Microsoft states that support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025. A Windows 10 PC continues to work, but Microsoft recommends moving to Windows 11. If your downgrade restored Windows 10, verify the edition, hardware compatibility and available support options for that specific computer before deciding whether to remain on it. Lack of support does not itself explain a missing driver, but it affects security and the availability of future fixes.
Quick Recap
Failure points and the next action
- The downloaded installer says the operating system is unsupported: Recheck the installed edition and build, then obtain the package listed for that version or ask the PC manufacturer for the correct legacy package.
- PnPUtil cannot find a driver: Confirm that the archive was extracted, the drive letter is correct and the command points to the folder containing INF files.
- The adapter appears under the wrong name: Use its Hardware Ids in Device Manager and search by that identifier rather than by a similar consumer model.
- Ethernet works but Wi-Fi does not: Keep the wired connection active, install the exact wireless package through Windows Update or Device Manager, restart, and then test Wi-Fi.
- Network reset fixes one connection but breaks VPN access: Reinstall or reconfigure the VPN or virtual-switch software; Microsoft warns that those components may not survive the reset unchanged.
- There is no Go back option: The rollback window or required files may have expired. Back up data and use the least destructive driver or recovery path available instead of deleting partitions immediately.
A practical order of operations
- Record the exact PC model, Windows edition/build and adapter hardware ID.
- Download the matching network driver on another device.
- Copy it to USB, install the supplied setup package or add the INF with PnPUtil, and restart.
- Try Ethernet, including a verified compatible USB-to-Ethernet adapter if the PC has no port.
- Run Windows Update, then use Device Manager to update or reinstall the identified adapter.
- Use Network reset only if the driver is present but configuration remains broken.
- Consider the 10-day rollback while it is still offered; otherwise back up files and prefer manufacturer recovery media over generic media for a reinstall.
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