The Broadcom BCM5708C NetXtreme II GigE (NDIS VBD Client) driver enables Windows to communicate with this Broadcom Gigabit Ethernet adapter for wired network access. Installing a compatible driver helps the system recognize the interface and use it for local network connections, shared resources, and internet access.

Key Features

• Gigabit Ethernet connectivity: Supports wired networking at up to 1 Gbps when the connected switch, cabling, and network configuration support that speed.
• Windows network integration: Provides the NDIS VBD client component used within the NetXtreme II driver architecture to expose the Ethernet interface to Windows networking services.
• Adapter configuration: Allows Windows and compatible management tools to access the network adapter’s supported settings, which may vary by driver package and hardware configuration.
• Driver maintenance: Replacing a missing, damaged, or incompatible driver can resolve adapter recognition problems and some connection issues.

How to Install

1. Identify your adapter and Windows version. Open Device Manager and look under Network adapters for the Broadcom BCM5708C NetXtreme II GigE (NDIS VBD Client). If it appears as an unknown Ethernet controller, check its hardware IDs in Properties. Confirm whether you use Windows 11, 10, 8, or 7, along with your system architecture.

1. Choose a matching driver package. Check the package documentation for your exact adapter, Windows release, and architecture. This is a legacy network controller, so compatibility—particularly with Windows 11 and Windows 10—should not be assumed. For an adapter supplied with a server or branded computer, check the system manufacturer’s driver recommendations.

1. Prepare the downloaded files. Extract the archive if necessary. Keep a copy of your current working network driver or have another way to access the internet before making changes.

1. Install the driver. Run the supplied installer if available; NetXtreme II packages may include related components that need to be installed together. If the documentation permits manual installation, select Update driver in Device Manager, choose Browse my computer for drivers, and point Windows to the extracted folder.

1. Restart and test the connection. Reboot if prompted, then confirm that Device Manager shows the adapter without a warning icon. Connect an Ethernet cable and test network access. If problems begin after updating, use Roll Back Driver when available or reinstall the previous compatible package.

Common Issues and Fixes

• Install fails or rolls back: The BCM5708C driver package is legacy and may not match your Windows version. Run the installer as administrator, or use Device Manager > Update driver > Browse to the extracted driver folder. If Windows blocks it, temporarily disable driver signature enforcement only for testing.
• Device not detected: Check that the onboard NIC or PCIe slot is enabled in BIOS, reseat the card/riser, and look in Device Manager for an unknown Ethernet controller. Install chipset/riser drivers if the BCM5708C is not enumerated.
• Version conflicts: Remove older Broadcom NetXtreme II drivers and Broadcom management tools (BACS/CIM provider) first. In Device Manager, select the adapter and choose “Uninstall device” with “Delete driver software,” reboot, then install one matching driver package.