Look under Network adapters . If the driver is missing, you will see a yellow question mark next to Ethernet Controller under "Other devices".
It provides a deep look at how Windows XP's Network Driver Interface Specification (NDIS) abstracted hardware so the same TCP/IP stack could work with any brand of Ethernet card. 🛠️ Key Technical Concepts of XP Ethernet Drivers ethernet driver for xp
Despite these challenges, there are still ways to find and install an Ethernet driver for Windows XP: Look under Network adapters
Since your XP machine likely has no internet, you must use a to download the files and transfer them via USB drive or CD. 🛠️ Key Technical Concepts of XP Ethernet Drivers
If it is a custom-built PC or the OEM site is down, go to the chipset maker. The main players are Realtek, Intel, and Broadcom.
Here are some popular Ethernet drivers that still work with Windows XP: