PCI\VEN_10EC&DEV_8168&REV_02 matches the RTL8111/8168/8411 PCI Express Gigabit Ethernet Controller device manufactured by RealTek. This popular driver update category has been downloaded 126,418 times and is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. DriverGuide utilizes the latest anti-virus software to guarantee downloads that are safe from viruses and malware.
To install or update your driver automatically, click the green button next to your selected driver. To see more information on a particular driver and to download it, click the Download Driver button.
Once you download your new driver, then you need to install it. To install a driver in Windows, you will need to use a built-in utility called Device Manager. It allows you to see all of the devices recognized by your system, and the drivers associated with them.
Visit our Driver Support Page for helpful step-by-step videos on how to install drivers for every file type.
If you are having trouble finding the right driver, stop searching and fix driver problems faster with the Automatic Driver Update Utility. Many computer problems are caused by missing or outdated device drivers, especially in Windows 11. If your system is running slow, or keeps crashing or hanging, there is a good chance that updating your drivers will fix the problem. Automatic updates could save you hours of time.
A device Hardware ID (HWID) is a set of numbers and letters that uniquely identifies any device. For example, different models of Motherboards, Graphics Cards, Printers and Network Interface Cards would have their own unique Hardware ID.
The general format for a Hardware ID is <Bus Type>\<Vendor ID>&<Device ID>&<Additional IDs>.
The Vendor ID takes the form "VEN_XXXX" where XXXX is a 4 digit code unique to the manufacturer.
The Device ID format is "DEV_YYYY" where YYYY is a 4 digit code unique to that manufacturer's device.
Hardware IDs are useful because they help identify the manufacturer and model of every hardware device inside, or attached to, your computer.
Each Hardware ID is assigned to a particular device by the device manufacturer. Windows operating systems such as Windows 11 use the Hardware ID to match to a specific INF file. INF files are used to install the correct device drivers - that's the software that lets your computer communicate with the device in the most efficient manner.
While a particular device driver is associated with specific Hardware ID, that driver may be compatible with other devices as well. In that case, the INF file would identify one or more Hardware IDs as an exact match, and provide a list of Compatible Hardware IDs for that driver. In many cases, the Compatible Hardware IDs will look similar, with the identifier having only minor variations, particularly in the Device ID portion.
When it comes to BIOS, motherboard drivers, and firmware upgrades, using a dedicated driver update tool offers several distinct advantages over relying on automatic updates:
Improved System Stability
BIOS and motherboard firmware updates often include critical fixes for system stability, compatibility, and hardware performance. A dedicated driver update tool ensures you receive the latest updates designed to resolve bugs or address hardware issues, keeping your system running smoothly.
Enhanced Hardware Compatibility
Newer BIOS versions can improve support for emerging hardware, such as faster processors, new RAM configurations, or updated storage devices. A driver update tool helps you stay current with these updates, ensuring your motherboard works seamlessly with the latest components.
Optimized Performance and Power Management
Motherboard and BIOS updates often bring performance enhancements, better power management, and improved thermal control. A driver tool ensures you get the latest optimizations, helping your system run more efficiently and extend its lifespan.
Critical Security Patches
BIOS and firmware updates are essential for protecting your system from potential vulnerabilities. A dedicated driver update tool ensures that you're notified of and able to install these security patches as soon as they are released, safeguarding your system against emerging threats.
Customizations and Advanced Settings
Some BIOS updates introduce new customization options, such as overclocking support or advanced configuration settings. A driver update tool helps you stay informed of these changes, unlocking new features that can enhance your system's performance or capabilities.
Avoiding Risky Manual Updates
BIOS and firmware updates can be risky if done incorrectly. A driver update tool simplifies the process, guiding you through safe and verified updates, reducing the risk of bricking your motherboard or causing issues during the upgrade process.
In short, using a dedicated driver update tool for your motherboard and BIOS ensures that your system remains stable, secure, and optimized, with minimal risk and effort on your part. It provides peace of mind knowing your hardware is always running the best possible firmware and drivers.