StarTech.com USB31000SPTB — USB 3.0 Gigabit Ethernet Adapter with USB Port, Black
Gigabit EthernetUSB-A pass-throughASIX AX88179ABlack
The StarTech.com USB31000SPTB is an USB 3.0 Gigabit Ethernet adapter with USB pass-through port that adds a wired Gigabit Ethernet port to a laptop, desktop PC, tablet or thin client through its USB-A port. A 5 Gbps USB-A pass-through port on the adapter gives back the port it uses. It is built on the ASIX AX88179A + VIA/VLI VL817 controller and connects at 10/100/1000 Mbps. It draws its power from the USB port, so there is no separate power supply to carry. A cable connection is the dependable answer when Wi-Fi is weak, crowded or not allowed, when a slim laptop has no network socket, or when backups, large downloads and video calls need a steady, low-latency link.
Compatibility — check before buying:
Check the port: the adapter has a USB-A plug; on a laptop that only has USB-C ports, choose a USB-C model instead. It links at up to 1 Gbps with any standard switch or router port, and Cat5e cable or better is enough. Operating systems listed by StarTech.com: Windows 7–11 (incl. ARM), Windows Server 2003–2025, macOS 10.6–26.1, Ubuntu 20.04 and later, ChromeOS 55 and later. Not sure it suits your laptop, dock or switch? Tell us the model and we check it.
Best For
✓ Laptops without an Ethernet port
✓ Stable video calls and remote desktop
✓ Office desks and hot desks
✓ Backups and large downloads
✓ Replacing a faulty built-in port
✓ IT toolkits and travel bags
Key Features
Gigabit Ethernet
Up to 1000 Mbps full duplex for steady calls, cloud work and file transfers; falls back to 100/10 Mbps automatically.
USB-A plug
Plugs into the standard USB-A port found on most desktops, older laptops, docks and monitors with a USB hub.
Network features
Supports Auto-MDIX, green (10/100) and amber (Gigabit) LEDs, StarTech.com Connectivity Tools.
USB-A pass-through port
Keeps a USB-A port free for a mouse, keyboard or flash drive.
Technical Specifications
| Identification |
| Brand |
StarTech.com |
| Product |
USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter, USB 3.0 Network Adapter NIC with USB Port |
| Part Number |
USB31000SPTB |
| EAN / GTIN |
0065030851893 |
| Network |
| Ports |
1× RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet |
| Speeds |
10/100/1000 Mbps |
| Chipset |
ASIX AX88179A + VIA/VLI VL817 |
| Features |
Auto-MDIX, green (10/100) and amber (Gigabit) LEDs, StarTech.com Connectivity Tools |
| Host Connection |
| Connector |
USB-A (5 Gbps) |
| USB |
USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbps) |
| Power |
USB bus powered |
| USB pass-through |
1× USB-A, 5 Gbps |
| Compatibility |
| Operating Systems |
Windows 7–11 (incl. ARM), Windows Server 2003–2025, macOS 10.6–26.1, Ubuntu 20.04 and later, ChromeOS 55 and later |
| Physical |
| Colour |
Black |
| Cable |
approx. 14.5 cm (5.7 in) |
| Dimensions |
11.0 × 1.4 × 0.7 in (incl. cable) |
| Weight |
approx. 45 g (1.6 oz) |
| In the Box |
| Included |
USB 3.0 Gigabit Ethernet adapter, driver CD, instruction manual |
| Not Included |
Network cable, switch or router |
| Warranty |
| Warranty |
1-Year Warranty (Singular) |
| Manufacturer Term |
StarTech.com publishes a 2-year warranty for this part number in its official datasheet. Singular’s direct warranty is 1 year; beyond that we assist you with the manufacturer’s warranty process for its full duration. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to install a driver?
Depending on the system, yes — a driver CD is included and drivers are on the StarTech.com support page. Supported: Windows 7–11 (incl. ARM), Server 2003–2025, macOS 10.6–26.1, Ubuntu 20.04+, ChromeOS 55+.
Is it faster than Wi-Fi?
A wired Gigabit link gives up to 1 Gbps with steadier latency than most Wi-Fi connections — that is what video calls, remote desktop and large transfers benefit from. Your internet speed still depends on your connection.
Will it work on a USB-C-only laptop?
Not directly — it has a USB-A plug. For USB-C laptops choose StarTech.com US1GC301AU (USB-C).
Does it work through a dock or USB hub?
Usually yes — it is a standard USB network device. For full speed the hub or dock port must be USB 3.x, and bus-powered hubs should have enough power for all connected devices.
Singular Expert Insight
We suggest the USB31000SPTB for laptops with few USB-A ports that need a wired connection without giving up a port. White version:
USB31000SPTW; two hub ports instead of one:
USB31000S2H. Browse more
network cards or
network switches. Local support in Cyprus comes with every order.
Buyer’s Guide
Buy it if
You need Gigabit and want to keep a USB-A port free.
Skip it if
You need two or more extra ports.
Also consider
StarTech.com USB31000S2H — with 2-port USB hub.