This article provides information regarding the Realtek 10/100/1000M Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express 5.708 driver package, specifically designed for older operating systems such as Windows 98, Windows 98 Second Edition (SE), and Windows Millennium Edition (ME). This driver package enables users of these legacy systems to utilize Realtek’s Gigabit Ethernet adapters for high-speed network connectivity. While these operating systems are no longer widely used, there remains a need for compatible drivers for users maintaining older hardware or running these operating systems in virtualized environments.
Overview
The Realtek 10/100/1000M Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express 5.708 driver package is a crucial software component for enabling network functionality on systems running Windows 98, 98SE, and ME. These operating systems, released in the late 1990s and early 2000s, predate the widespread adoption of Gigabit Ethernet technology. This driver allows these older systems to communicate effectively with modern networks utilizing Gigabit Ethernet speeds.
Key Features and Compatibility
This driver package is specifically tailored for Realtek’s Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express network adapters. It provides the necessary instructions for the operating system to recognize and utilize the network card. This includes features such as:
- 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet Support: Enables network connections at speeds of 10 Mbps, 100 Mbps (Fast Ethernet), and 1000 Mbps (Gigabit Ethernet). The actual speed achieved depends on the capabilities of the network infrastructure and the connected devices.
- PCI Express Interface: Designed for PCI Express (PCIe) network cards, which offer improved bandwidth and performance compared to older PCI standards.
- Auto Installation Program: The driver package includes an automated installation program designed to simplify the installation process for users, minimizing the need for manual configuration.
- Support for Specific Realtek Chipsets: The driver is compatible with a range of Realtek Gigabit Ethernet controller chips, including but not limited to:
- RTL8111B
- RTL8168B
- RTL8111
- RTL8168
- RTL8111C
- RTL8111CP
- RTL8111D(L)
- RTL8168C
It’s important to verify that your specific Realtek network adapter model is listed as compatible before installing the driver.
Installation Considerations
Installing drivers on older operating systems like Windows 98, 98SE, and ME can sometimes be more complex than on modern systems. Here are some considerations:
- System Requirements: Ensure your system meets the basic hardware requirements for the operating system and the network card.
- Driver Compatibility: Double-check that the driver version (5.708) is indeed compatible with your specific Realtek network adapter model and your version of Windows (98, 98SE, or ME).
- Clean Installation: It’s recommended to uninstall any previous network drivers before installing the new driver to avoid conflicts.
- Restart Required: A system restart is typically required after installing the driver for the changes to take effect.
- Device Manager: If the network card is not automatically recognized after installation, you may need to manually install the driver through the Device Manager.
- Driver Signing: Driver signing was not as prevalent in Windows 98/ME as it is today. You might encounter warnings about unsigned drivers during installation. Proceed with caution, ensuring you trust the source of the driver.
Download Information
- Filename: PCIE_Install_98ME_5708_1119.zip
- Last Updated: November 25, 2008
Download Links
- Primary Download: TechSpot
Alternative Download Links:
Due to the age of this driver, the primary download link might not always be readily available. Here are some alternative sources where you might find the Realtek 10/100/1000M Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express 5.708 driver:
- Softpedia: Search for "Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller Driver for Windows 98/ME" on Softpedia.
- DriverGuide: DriverGuide might have archived versions of the driver available for download.
- DriverIdentifier: Use DriverIdentifier to scan your system, and it may suggest this driver version if it’s compatible with your hardware.
- Realtek’s Website (Archive): While Realtek no longer officially supports these older operating systems, archived versions of their drivers might be available through third-party repositories or web archives.
- MajorGeeks: Search for "Realtek Ethernet Drivers" on MajorGeeks and look for a version close to 5.708 compatible with Windows 98/ME.
Why Use This Driver?
Even in the age of broadband and modern operating systems, there are still valid reasons to use the Realtek 10/100/1000M Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express 5.708 driver. These include:
- Legacy Hardware: Individuals who have older computers running Windows 98, 98SE, or ME and wish to connect them to a network.
- Retro Computing: Enthusiasts who enjoy restoring and using vintage computer hardware.
- Emulation/Virtualization: Running older operating systems within virtual machines for software compatibility or historical preservation.
- Specific Hardware Requirements: In some cases, older hardware might only function correctly with drivers specifically designed for those operating systems.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues after installing the driver, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
- Check Device Manager: Look for any errors or warnings related to the network adapter in the Device Manager.
- Reinstall the Driver: Uninstall and reinstall the driver, ensuring you follow the installation instructions carefully.
- Check Network Settings: Verify that your network settings are configured correctly, including IP address, subnet mask, and gateway.
- Hardware Conflicts: Check for potential hardware conflicts with other devices in your system.
- Consult Online Forums: Search online forums and communities dedicated to Windows 98/ME for troubleshooting tips and solutions.
Conclusion
The Realtek 10/100/1000M Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express 5.708 driver package provides essential network connectivity for users of Windows 98, 98SE, and ME. While these operating systems are outdated, this driver remains a valuable resource for maintaining compatibility with legacy hardware and networks. By following the installation instructions and troubleshooting tips, users can successfully enable Gigabit Ethernet functionality on their older systems. This Realtek 10/100/1000M Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express 5.708 driver is a small piece of software that can breathe new life into old hardware.