Solution to Connecting Ethernet to M1 Max Mac Monterey 12.3.1
I have found a simple solution that simply works!
M1 Max Mac Book Pro, 64GB RAM, 1TB SSD, 16", Monterey 12.3.1
- j5create USB Adapter (Genesys Logic Inc) - simply would not connect on Ethernet
- iWALK USB Adapter (VIA Labs Inc) - simply would not connect on Ethernet
Interestingly, I am able to connect a Microsoft Wired USB Mouse via both the above adapters and work very well
- My M1 Mac refuses to connect to the Ethernet thru them though
On a hunch, I went to the Apple Store @ Orchard Road @ Singapore and got some very timely advice from Mr Timothy Chiam (God bless the young man) / he tried the following
- connected the original Apple USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter to the Mac to which he connected the original Apple USB Ethernet Adapter and Voila, my M1 Mac connected to the Ethernet instantly
- to make things simpler, he went looking for the original Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter but it was out of stock
- he connected a "Belkin" USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter and Voila again, my M1 Mac connected to the Ethernet instantly
I bought the Belkin Adapter for SGD 44 (USD 32), brought it home and have been enjoying the amazing experience (what a relief)
My 5 Cents Worth
- Very similar to the issues we face with charger wires for the iPhone, Apple is very sensitive to the accessories it will allow it's hardware to work with
- Best to stick to Original Apple Adapters / Belkins of this world which are sold by Apple
- If this had struck me before, I would saved myself hours and hours trying to connect Ethernet to my M1 Mac and also a trip to the Apple Store / lesson learnt
MacBook Pro (2020 and later)