Windows 10: Device Manager: Network Adapters always expanded -- Gigabit Network

Gigabit Network Connection network adapter is disabled on my computer that talks to my router over wi-fi, not through a cable. I don't recall having disabled it, but I clearly don't need it when my wi-fi router is only 8 feet away, and everything internet- and home network-related works beautifully and fast as lightning. Bothers me, though that Device Manager always has Network Adapters expanded, clearly to call attention to the fact that the GNC adapter is disabled. Should I uninstall that adapter and its driver software to calm the Device Manager? Would uninstalling it make the Device Manager happier? (See Computer specs, System 2) Win 10 Pro 20H2

:)

 

Device Manager: Network Adapters always expanded -- Gigabit Network




That's how it looks when I open it. I didn't expand the Adapters. It's automatic when there's something to check, as you know.

 

Device Manager: Network Adapters always expanded -- Gigabit Network

Tweaker, you old fellow-Canuck,

You've covered it for me. And your two screenshots answered my question about where I saw the "unplugged" notice. I'm going to go with your solution. Many thanks for taking the time to do the shots and address my problem. Stay safe. *Warning

 

Device Manager: Network Adapters always expanded -- Gigabit Network

Hi Wisewiz,

Sometimes settings just seem to magically change state without warning, especially with Windows OSs. *Smile

Your device manager is designed to open in an expanded state to draw attention to any deficiencies. While you may be happy to have your Ethernet Controller disabled, Windows just doesn't agree and wants you to know about it.

I only use an Ethernet connection for testing and quite rarely, so I understand your thinking that having it enabled isn't necessary. Remember, we only lease Windows and Microsoft always knows best. *Smile

When I disable my Ethernet Controller and then open the device manager, the Network Adapters section is expanded and the icon for the controller is altered like yours.






I too dislike seeing the Network Adapters expanded and choose to keep my Ethernet Controller enabled so that when I open the Device Manager, everything looks as it should, no sections appear expanded and no unusual icons. *Smile






If you uninstall the adapter, it will install again after the next boot. As Berton mentioned, your bios settings may have an option to disable the Ethernet Adapter, however; this action will create a new task should you ever decide to use an Ethernet connection.

Whenever I to use an Ethernet connection, I plug in the RJ45 connector and I'm done. No closing all apps and restart to access bios settings. That just sounds like too much effort. *Smile

If you choose to enable the ethernet controller, this entire issue will disappear. *Smile