Ethernet port not working

kwerb · #1 February 25th, 2008, 10:06 AM

My MBP (15" core 2 duo, running Leopard) suddenly stopped recognizing the Ethernet cable yesterday.

I can connect fine to the Internet over wireless (both EVDO and Airport), but the Ethernet section in the Network system preferences says "the cable is not plugged in".

I've tried several different Ethernet cables, at different locations. TechTool Pro shows no hardware failures. The Ethernet connection worked fine the day before, and I didn't install or update anything in the interim.

Anyone have any suggestions?

JC1211 · #2 March 11th, 2008, 08:08 PM

I'm having the same EXACT issue and tried the same exact things (various wires, wireless vs. wired) and for some strange reason the port is not recognizing ANY wire at all!

Can someone help?

(macbook 10.4.11, intel core duo, running tiger)

**Giaguara** · #3 March 12th, 2008, 01:27 AM

Reset PRAM. That can help find peripherals that suddenly appear lost...

macworks · #4 March 12th, 2008, 11:49 AM

Or reset the PMU. On a MacBook Pro, I believe you first Shut Down, unplug the power cord, remove the battery, then hold the power button down for 10 seconds. Then reassemble and restart.

You might want to check Apple's support documentation to be sure these are the steps for your exact model.

JC1211 · #5 March 12th, 2008, 12:59 PM

Thanks for the responses guys. Went to a local Mac dealer and they took a look for me and come to find out my ethernet port is dunzo.

He was honest with me and told me that it'd wayyy too much $$$ to fix it and that it would be better (and MUCH CHEAPER) to buy a wireless router and going wireless from hereon out (wireless/airport works fine).

I'm soo annoyed by this b/c I did NOTHING out of the ordinary with my MB. I didnt drop it, spill anything on it. Nothing! It was working in the morning then in the afternoon--didn't. I just purchased it *brand new* from eBay only this past October. But since my serial # is over a year old, it's no longer covered by Apple.

One of my friends had the same thing happen to hers a few months ago (dead ethernet port).

Does anyone know if this is a known defect in Macbooks?

dwayne Cevis · #6 March 13th, 2008, 05:32 PM

I hd te same thing happen and in all system preferences,network utilities,system profiler it ssees the port but says "Cable Unplugged" any answers why.

mvcube · #7 March 23rd, 2008, 10:02 AM

If you bought it new from a dealer, even via eBay, it should be covered by some sort of warranty. Here in Germany, the dealer is responsible in any case, at least if he is a professional dealer and not a private seller. You should as well ask Apple support if they are willing to help you out.