How to Connect a New Computer to the Internet Utilizing an Ethernet Cable

by Jason Artman

Windows comes pre-configured for Internet access via Ethernet. If your computer includes an Ethernet adapter as many do, connecting your computer to the Internet is as simple as connecting a cable. However, the setup procedure can become more complicated if you want to network multiple computers at your business together or the Ethernet settings on your computer aren't set to their defaults. In any case, connecting a new computer to the Internet is a quick procedure that you can complete in minutes.

1. Shut your computer down and disconnect the power cable from the back of your broadband modem. If you have an Ethernet or wireless router, disconnect the power cable from it as well.

2. Connect an Ethernet cable to the back of the broadband modem and to your computer's Ethernet port. If you're using a router, you'll need a second Ethernet cable. Connect one cable to the broadband modem and to the port marked "WAN" or "Internet" on the router. Connect the second cable to one of the router's numbered ports and to your computer's Ethernet port.

3. Connect the power cable to the broadband modem and wait for it to connect to the Internet Service Provider. This usually takes less than one minute. The indicator lights on the front of the modem should turn solid when the modem is connected. Connect the power cable to the router, if applicable, and wait several seconds for it to establish communication with the modem.

4. Turn on your computer and launch a Web browser when Windows finishes loading. If your computer is able to browse the Web, stop here. If not, continue.

5. Open the "Start" menu, click "Control Panel" and select the "Network and Internet" heading. In the new window, click the "Network and Sharing Center" heading and then click the "Change Adapter Settings" link in the left column. The "Network Connections" window appears.

6. Examine the "Local Area Connection" icon. If it displays the message "Network cable unplugged," remove and re-seat the Ethernet cable between your computer and router or modem. If you continue to see the message, replace the Ethernet cable.

7. Right-click the "Local Area Connection" icon and select "Properties" from the popup menu. In the new window, double-click "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IP)." Click the "Obtain an IP address automatically" and "Obtain DNS server address automatically" radio buttons, click "OK" in every window and restart the computer. When the computer finishes restarting, the Internet connection should work properly.


  • A router protects your computer from unauthorized access attempts by discarding all data that you did not request. You lose this benefit if you connect your computer directly to a cable or broadband modem and could face potential security risks. To minimize these risks, install an Internet Security program and make sure that the Windows Firewall is enabled.

About the Author

Jason Artman has been a technical writer since entering the field in 1999 while attending Michigan State University. Artman has published numerous articles for various websites, covering a diverse array of computer-related topics including hardware, software, games and gadgets.

Photo Credits

  • Images
Suggest an Article Correction