A user's desktop PC includes both a Wi-Fi adapter and a Gigabit Ethernet NIC. The operating system is configured to use whichever interface appears faster. The user reports that the network connection drops every few minutes even though the Ethernet port shows a steady link-status light. To begin troubleshooting methodically, what is the BEST first step the technician should take?
Download and install the latest network-adapter drivers before performing any other checks.
Disable the Wi-Fi adapter and test connectivity using only the wired Ethernet link.
Open an escalation ticket requesting advanced network diagnostics without examining the workstation.
Replace all Ethernet cables and reboot the router at the same time to rule out hardware failure.
Intermittent loss of connectivity can be caused by the system switching between network interfaces. Disabling the Wi-Fi adapter and testing only the wired Ethernet path isolates one connection type so the technician can verify whether the fault is tied to the wireless interface or to the wired link. This simple test avoids unnecessary driver updates, wholesale cable replacement, or premature escalation.
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Why would disabling the Wi-Fi adapter help troubleshoot connectivity issues?
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What is the role of the NIC in network connectivity?
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Why is it unnecessary to update drivers immediately in this scenario?