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Introduction to
Computer Networks
Working with Device Drivers
and NICs
This lesson we examine the role of network
interface cards (NICs) and how they are
installed.
The Role of Drivers
• A driver (sometimes called a device driver) is
software that enables a computer to work with a
particular device.
• Although a device might be installed on a computer,
the computer's operating system cannot
communicate with the device until the driver for
that device has been installed and configured.
• It is the software driver that tells the computer
how to work with the device so that the device can
perform its job.
The Network Environment
• Network drivers provide communication between a
NIC and the network redirector running in the
computer.
• Drivers and the OSI Reference Model:
• NIC drivers reside
in the Media
Access Control
sublayer of the
data-link layer of
the OSI Reference
Model.
Drivers and Networking Software
• It is common for the NIC manufacturer to provide
drivers to the networking software vendor so that
the drivers can be included with the network
operating software.
• The operating system manufacturer's hardware
compatibility list (HCL) lists the drivers they have
tested and included with the operating system.
• Even if the driver for a particular card has not
been included with the network operating system,
it is common for the NIC manufacturer to include
drivers for most popular network operating
systems on a disk that is shipped with the card.
Installing NICs
• Before purchasing NICs, it's helpful to keep several
important points in mind.
• Type of Expansion Slot: ISA, EISA, Micro Channel,
and/or PCI buses.
• Type of Card: NICs are specified by network type.
• Network Speed: When designing your network, be
sure to keep future networking needs in mind.
• Media Connection: There is a variety of media from
which to choose.
Installing a NIC
• network cards with diagnostic lights built in can be
a good investment.
• Typically, a green
light indicates that a
proper connection
exists between the
card and the media.
A flashing yellow
light usually
indicates that the
card is processing
data.