The Broadcom BCM5708S NetXtreme II GigE (NDIS VBD Client) driver allows Windows to communicate with this Broadcom Gigabit Ethernet network adapter. It supports the adapter’s role in a wired network connection, enabling access to local resources and internet services when the hardware and network are configured correctly.

Key Features

• Gigabit Ethernet connectivity: Enables Windows to use the BCM5708S adapter for wired networking, with connection speed dependent on the installed hardware and network equipment.
• NDIS VBD client support: Provides the client-side driver component used within Broadcom’s NetXtreme II Virtual Bus Device architecture. A matching VBD bus driver may also be required.
• Windows network integration: Makes the adapter available to Windows networking services for IP configuration, connection status reporting, and standard network communication.
• Adapter configuration: Depending on the driver package and hardware, exposes settings that can help administrators adjust network behavior for their environment.

How to Install

1. Confirm the adapter and operating system. Open Device Manager and check Network adapters for the Broadcom BCM5708S NetXtreme II GigE (NDIS VBD Client). If it appears as an unknown device, check its hardware IDs under Properties > Details.

1. Choose a compatible package. For Windows 11, 10, 8, or 7, verify that the download explicitly supports your Windows version, system architecture, and adapter hardware ID. This is a legacy adapter, so do not assume that an older package is compatible with newer Windows releases. Check system-manufacturer guidance where available.

1. Prepare for installation. Download and extract the driver files if they are compressed. Keep a backup connection or an offline copy of your existing driver available, since updating a network driver can temporarily disconnect the system.

1. Install the required components. Run the package’s setup program if provided, following its instructions for any VBD dependencies. For a manual installation, right-click the adapter in Device Manager, select Update driver, choose Browse my computer for drivers, and locate the extracted folder.

1. Restart and test the connection. Restart Windows if prompted, then confirm that Device Manager shows no warning icon. Check your IP settings and test access to the local network or internet. If installation fails, recheck package compatibility rather than forcing an unrelated driver.

Common Issues and Fixes

• Install fails or shows Code 10/28: Remove any existing Broadcom NetXtreme II driver and BACS entries in Device Manager (including hidden devices), reboot, then run the OEM driver installer as administrator. Use the package matching your Windows version and architecture.
• Device not detected: Confirm the BCM5708S NIC is enabled in BIOS/System Setup, reseat the card or riser, and check Device Manager for an unknown PCI Ethernet device. If nothing appears, try another compatible PCIe slot.
• Version conflicts: Windows Update may replace the OEM NDIS VBD Client driver with a different Broadcom NetXtreme II version. Roll back to the OEM driver, avoid mixing BACS and driver package versions, and reinstall the full OEM package if the adapter stops binding.