Upgrading lan card on old laptop

[Gmjh]

Hi, I have an old hp 15- f272wm running Windows 10 which I'm using as a server for streaming Plex etc. I want to upgrade the ethernet card from the installed 100mb card to a gigabit card. (I already have an rj45 USB ethernet adapter to run a gigabyte, but it seems to be not very consistent and I'd rather have an actual updated lan card) The information I can find on this card is 

Realtek PCIe FE family controller

Integrated 10/100 BASE-T Ethernet LAN

When I've tried looking into installing a new ethernet card, (which I know very little about) there was never any mention of compatibility for any specific PC or laptop, they only mentioned the version of Windows it's compatible with. So basically I'm asking which gigabit ethernet card I need for this laptop. Would something like this be compatible? Thanks very much. 

https://www.amazon.com/TOTOVIN-Broadcom-NetXtreme-1000Mbps-Gigabit/dp/B076HHS1WF/ref=asc_df_B076HHS1...

[resistencia]

Hi @Gmjh 

This cannot be updated in notebook, and the card you indicate is for desktop.

[Gmjh]

Ah. Why can't it be updated?

[resistencia · Accepted solution]

this soldered to the motherboard

[Gmjh]

Okay thanks very much for your help

[resistencia]

You're welcome, happy to help

[Altaan]

For upgrading the Ethernet capability of your HP 15-f272wm laptop to a gigabit connection, there are a few important points to consider:

1. **Laptop Limitations**: Most laptops, including the HP 15-f272wm, have integrated Ethernet ports that are soldered onto the motherboard, meaning you cannot easily replace or upgrade the internal Ethernet card like you would with a desktop.

2. **Alternative Options**: Since upgrading the internal Ethernet card is not feasible, the best approach is to use a USB-to-Gigabit Ethernet adapter. You've mentioned already having one, but it appears to be inconsistent. Consider upgrading to a high-quality, reputable brand like Anker, TP-Link, or StarTech, which may provide better stability and performance.

3. **Compatibility**: When selecting a USB-to-Gigabit Ethernet adapter, ensure it supports USB 3.0 or higher. This will maximize data transfer speeds and ensure your network speeds are not bottlenecked by the USB port. Additionally, check that the adapter is compatible with Windows 10 (most will be).

4. **Driver Support**: Sometimes, instability with USB adapters can be due to outdated or incompatible drivers. Visit the manufacturer's website to download the latest drivers for the adapter you are using.

In summary, replacing the internal Ethernet card is not a practical option for laptops like yours. Your best bet is to invest in a reliable USB-to-Gigabit Ethernet adapter and ensure it's properly configured with the latest drivers.