Hidden Network Interfaces

[smanuel]

Hi all,

I'm having an issue on two PC's with hidden network interfaces. Sometimes (but frequent) when they are rebooted Windows will add a new NIC with a number at the end. The old NIC is still there but hidden as I get the warning about the static IP already being used on another adapter.

I have checked the event logs and I don't see anything that would indicate a cause. I updated the NIC driver and have the same issue.

Any help or suggestions would be much appreciated.
Thanks

Specs:
IBM SurePOS machines (2 different model numbers but same family)
Broadcom eXtreme NIC on both
Windows POSReady 7
Symantec Endpoint Protection 12.1.4 (case open with Symantec as well)

 

[doctore]

This guide ought to help:
How to Find a Lost, Missing, Hidden or Removed Network Card (NIC) or Other Device and Even Remove it - ITProGuru Blog by Systems Management Expert Dan Stolts - Site Home - TechNet Blogs

 

[smanuel]

Thanks, but I know how to find them and remove them. I'm trying to determine a cause so this doesn't happen again. We are planning a deployment and some of the sites are remote so support is limited.

 

[doctore]

Are you virtualizing any OS? Do you have Microsoft VM on any of the computers?

Also, when you open the adapter properties in Device Manager, under "Resources" does it show any conflicts?

 

[smanuel]

No virtual OS of any type. These are POS systems running Embedded 7. No resource conflicts.

Only thing i see is the attached screenshot of the network adapter list.

 

[doctore]

So, when you remove all "Broadcom" devices, hidden and visible, they show up again?

 

[smanuel]

Sorry for the late reply but yes they did.

I contacted IBM and they said there was a firmware update that resolves this. I installed it a couple days ago, so i have my fingers crossed.