-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
- HP Community
- Notebooks
- Notebook Wireless and Networking
- Ehternet is not working

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
07-11-2025 02:18 AM - edited 07-11-2025 02:18 AM
@Rachi2017, Hello and welcome to the HP Support Community!
Thanks for posting your question. I'm here to help you get things back on track.
I understand you're seeing the message "Ethernet cable isn't plugged in" and Code 43 in Device Manager for your network adapter. Let's work together to get this resolved.
Code 43 indicates that Windows has stopped the device because it reported a problem. This is often related to driver issues or hardware conflicts.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Run HP Network Diagnostics
HP provides a built-in tool to automatically detect and fix network issues.
- Open HP Support Assistant on your laptop.
- Go to Troubleshooting and Fixes > HP Network Check.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
If you don’t have HP Support Assistant, download it here: HP Support Assistant | HP® Support
Uninstall and Reinstall the Ethernet Driver
Sometimes, reinstalling the driver can fix Code 43.
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand Network adapters.
- Right-click your Ethernet adapter (e.g., Realtek, Intel) and select Uninstall device.
- Check the box for Delete the driver software for this device (if available), then click Uninstall.
- Restart your laptop. Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver automatically.
Update the Ethernet Driver
If the issue persists, manually update the driver:
- Visit the HP Software and Driver Downloads page.
- Enter your HP Pavilion model number.
- Download and install the latest LAN/Ethernet driver for your version of Windows.
Alternatively, you can try updating via Device Manager:
- Right-click the Ethernet adapter > Update driver > Search automatically for drivers.
Check for Windows Updates
- Go to Settings > Windows Update and install all available updates.
- Restart your laptop after updates are installed.
Check the Ethernet Cable and Port
- Make sure the Ethernet cable is securely plugged in.
- Try a different cable or port (if available) to rule out hardware issues.
I hope the information shared has been useful and resolves your concern.
Wishing you a smooth and hassle-free experience ahead!
If this solution helped, please click “Accepted Solution” so others can benefit too. Don’t forget to hit the “Yes” button if you found this helpful!
Warm regards,
Max3Aj
HP Support