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Steven Smith

Windows Tips and Tricks

Hidden Network Cards

I just moved a server and switched it from using a wireless card to a 10/100 Ethernet port and I kept getting this kind of message when I set it back up with its IP addresses:

The IP address XXX.XXX.XXX.XXX you have entered for this network adapter is already assigned to another adapter Name of adapter. Name of adapter is hidden from the network and Dial-up Connections folder because it is not physically in the computer or is a legacy adapter that is not working. If the same address is assigned to both adapters and they become active, only one of them will use this address. This may result in incorrect system configuration. Do you want to enter a different IP address for this adapter in the list of IP addresses in the advanced dialog box?
 
Unfortunately, I couldn't figure out a way to remove the IPs from the wireless card since it was (a) hidden and (b) not around to plug in.  I found this KB article which quickly showed me the light:
 

Error Message When You Try to Set an IP Address on a Network Adapter

In case Microsoft decides to break that link (it's been known to happen), here's the resolution:

To resolve this problem, uninstall the ghosted network adapter from the registry:

1. Click Start, click Run, type cmd.exe, and then press ENTER.
2. Type set devmgr_show_nonpresent_devices=1, and then press ENTER.
3. Type Start DEVMGMT.MSC, and then press ENTER.
4. Click View, and then click Show Hidden Devices.
5. Expand the Network Adapters tree.
6. Right-click the dimmed network adapter, and then click Uninstall.

Published Saturday, August 20, 2005 6:05 PM by ssmith

Comments

 

Jason.N.Gaylord said:

Thanks a million Steve. I couldn't remember how to show this.
August 30, 2005 11:43 PM
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About ssmith

Enlisted in 1995. Basic at Ft Sill. AIT at Ft Jackson (75F). Served in Ohio National Guard. Went through ROTC program at Ohio State University and received 2LT commission in 1997, Engineer branch. Spent about 4 years in 16th Engineer Brigade in Ohio National Guard, then moved far from nearest unit and went into Inactive National Guard, and eventually Individual Ready Reserve. Called up from IRR in 2004 for duty in Iraq (Engineer Platoon Leader with 1st ID). Made it home in 2005. Resigned commission as a CPT in December 2005.