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Fix Wired issues on Linux

Updated

If your Linux device isn’t connecting via Ethernet, this guide will help you diagnose and fix the problem using built-in tools and commands.

Step 1 - Check the cable and physical setup

  • Ensure the Ethernet cable is securely connected to both the wall port and your device

  • If using a USB adapter, confirm it's seated properly

  • Try a different cable or wall port if possible

Step 2 - Restart your device

  • Restarting can often reinitialise network interfaces

  • Use your desktop menu or run:

    sudo reboot

Step 3 - Verify Ethernet interface is active

  • Open Terminal

  • Run:

    ip link

    • Look for an interface name like eth0, enp3s0, or similar

    • It should say state UP

  • If it’s down, bring it up:

    sudo ip link set eth0 up

    (Replace eth0 with your actual interface name)

Step 4 - Set IP and DNS to automatic

  • Run:

    nmcli connection show

  • Identify your Ethernet connection (e.g. Wired connection 1)

  • Set to use DHCP:

    nmcli connection modify "Wired connection 1" ipv4.method auto
nmcli connection up "Wired connection 1"

Step 5 - Register your device

Step 6 - Test your internet connection

  • Run:

    ping -c 4 1.1.1.1

    • If it works, the issue may be DNS-related

  • Try:

    ping -c 4 google.com

Step 7 - Try a different interface

Some Linux distributions name interfaces differently or may have issues with certain drivers. If unsure:

  • Run dmesg | grep eth to see interface logs

  • Try a live USB of a different Linux distro to compare results

Still having issues?

If none of the above resolves the issue:

  • Contact Support

  • Include your device type, what you’ve already tried, and any error messages you’ve seen

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