UGREEN USB-A 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter (20256)

Overview

The UGREEN 20256 plugs into a USB-A port and gives a laptop or desktop an RJ45 network socket. It is for a computer that has no Ethernet port, or whose port has failed, and for a Nintendo Switch that you want on a wired connection. On a USB 3.x port it links at up to 1000 Mbps; on USB 2.0 it still works, at a lower speed.

Is it right for you?

• Suits Windows 11, 10, 8.1 and 8 and ChromeOS, where it works without a driver.
• Works with a Nintendo Switch or Switch OLED through a supported USB-A connection, and with compatible TV boxes that support USB networking.
• Not for Android, Windows RT, Surface RT, Surface 2 or other ARM-based Windows systems.
• For a USB-C only laptop you would need a separate data-capable host adapter; a USB-C adapter is the simpler choice.
• macOS and Linux depend on the version and on AX88179B driver availability.

Key features

• AX88179B controller with 10, 100 and 1000 Mbps auto-negotiation.
• USB 3.x for Gigabit-class speed, backward compatible with USB 2.0 at reduced throughput.
• Link and activity LEDs on the RJ45 socket.
• Compact black inline adapter with an integrated lead, 6.2 × 2.6 × 1.8 cm, 60 g.
• Bus powered from the USB host; no external supply.

What else you need

A standard Ethernet patch cable (Cat5e or better for Gigabit) and a Gigabit router or switch port. Gigabit speed needs a USB 3.x host port as well as capable network equipment.

Installation

Plug it in and connect the cable. Windows 7, XP and Vista need the driver from the included CD. If the link light stays off, reseat the cable, try another cable and an active switch port, and check the far end is powered. If it links at only 100 Mbps, use a known-good Cat5e or better cable with all eight contacts and confirm the router and host support Gigabit.

Before you buy

• Operating system updates can change driver compatibility, especially on macOS and Linux; check the current AX88179B driver for your version and do not install an unrelated or unsigned package.
• A Gigabit link does not guarantee 1000 Mbps internet or file-transfer speed, and USB 2.0 limits throughput even when the Ethernet side links higher.
• It does not create Wi-Fi, act as a router or share one link among several devices.
• Wii and Wii U compatibility is not confirmed.
• It can become warm in normal use. Stop using it if the enclosure, lead or connector is damaged or abnormally hot.
• Routers, cables, USB adapters and power supplies are not in the box.