How do I connect my Mac to Ethernet?
How do I connect my Mac to Ethernet?
I’m really struggling to figure out how to connect my Mac to Ethernet. I’ve been using Wi-Fi, but I need a more stable and faster internet connection for my work. My MacBook doesn’t seem to have an obvious Ethernet port, and I’m not sure what adapter or cable I should be using. Additionally, I’m uncertain about the settings and steps I need to follow to make the connection work once I physically connect the Ethernet cable. The process seems a bit overwhelming, and I could use some guidance to understand each step clearly. How can I ensure that my Mac recognizes the Ethernet connection and prioritizes it over Wi-Fi?
5 Answers
To connect your Mac to Ethernet, follow these steps: First, you need a compatible Ethernet adapter since many MacBooks lack a built-in Ethernet port. Depending on your Mac, get either a USB to Ethernet adapter or a Thunderbolt to Ethernet adapter. Plug the adapter into your MacBook. Then, insert one end of the Ethernet cable into the adapter and the other end into your router. Go to System Preferences, then select Network. Your Mac should automatically recognize the Ethernet connection. If it doesn’t, you may need to manually configure the network settings by selecting Ethernet and clicking on ‘Advanced’.
Here’s how I connected my Mac to Ethernet: I bought a Thunderbolt to Ethernet adapter because my MacBook didn’t have an Ethernet port. I hooked up the adapter to my Mac, then connected the Ethernet cable from the adapter to my router. The trickiest part was ensuring the settings were correct, so I went to System Preferences > Network. There, I selected Ethernet, and it connected automatically. If it doesn’t, turn off your Wi-Fi to force the Mac to prioritize the wired connection.
You need an Ethernet adapter, as most newer Macs, especially MacBooks, don’t come with an Ethernet port. Purchase a USB-C to Ethernet adapter or Thunderbolt to Ethernet adapter, depending on your Mac model. Connect the adapter to your Mac. Plug the Ethernet cable into the adapter and the other end into your router or modem. Open System Preferences and click on Network. You will see Ethernet on the list on the left side. Select it, and you should see it connect automatically. Make sure Wi-Fi is off so that your Mac uses the Ethernet connection.
I understand your frustration; here’s a detailed method to connect your Mac to Ethernet: You’ll need a specific adapter that fits your Mac, like a USB-C to Ethernet adapter. After buying the adapter, plug it into your Mac via the appropriate port. Connect your Ethernet cable to the adapter and ensure the other end connects securely to your modem/router. Open the Apple menu and go to System Preferences > Network. In the Network settings, click on the plus (+) button at the bottom to add a new service. Set the interface to Ethernet and the service name to something recognizable. Click Create, and it should connect. Make sure Wi-Fi is disabled or lower in the priority list.
Here’s the process step-by-step: Obtain an Ethernet adapter compatible with your Mac, such as a USB-C or Thunderbolt adapter. Attach the adapter to your Mac. Connect your Ethernet cable to the adapter, and the other end to your router. From the Apple menu, navigate to System Preferences > Network. Select Ethernet from the left, provided it is listed. If it’s not, click the plus (+) button to add it. Once listed, select Ethernet and check if it’s connected. If not, you might need to adjust the settings or reboot for the connection to be recognized.