Since Microsoft released the original Surface RT (now simply called “Surface”) back in 2012, one of the user’s complaint was absent of an Ethernet port or support for the official USB Ethernet adapter on the ARM-based device to connect to a wired network. Previous rumors suggested the software giant was creating a piece of software to add such needed support, but the company never said anything officially.
Today the network adapter that was only designed to work in Surface Pro and Surface Pro 2, now works in Surface RT too. This is because Microsoft has quietly added the necessary networking drivers to support the Ethernet adapter accessory in Windows RT 8.1.
This is a great news for Surface owners who need to connect to a network and a wireless access-point isn’t an option. Keep in mind that Microsoft won’t be making available the driver available for download on Windows RT 8.0, you must update to Windows RT 8.1.
Update: Use this guide, if you experiencing problems or you get the message “Not Compatible with this version of Windows” trying to install the Surface Ethernet adapter in your RT device.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of Pureinfotech (est. 2010). With over 21 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.
Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.
Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.
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