Hardware⏱️ 4 min read📅 2026-06-11

How to Fix: Computer refuses to boot in UEFI mode - gives error about Intel Gigabit network card

Error fixing UEFI boot issue with Intel Gigabit network card in Debian Linux.

Quick Answer: Update the BIOS to the latest version and try booting again.

The error message 'the system cannot find the UEFI driver for the add-on network devices [0x10D38086]' indicates that your computer is unable to boot in UEFI mode due to an issue with the Intel Gigabit network card. This issue affects users of motherboards that support UEFI and have Intel network cards installed.

This error can be frustrating, especially when trying to install or update a Linux distribution like Debian. However, by following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue and boot your computer in UEFI mode.

🛑 Root Causes of the Error

  • The primary reason for this error is that the Intel Gigabit network card requires a specific driver to function properly in UEFI mode. The driver is not installed or is missing on your system.
  • Alternatively, it's possible that the motherboard's UEFI firmware has an issue with the network card, causing the driver to be unavailable.

🛠️ Step-by-Step Verified Fixes

Update the Intel Network Driver

  1. Step 1: Step 1: Open a terminal and run the command 'sudo apt update' to ensure your package list is up-to-date.
  2. Step 2: Step 2: Run the command 'sudo apt install intel-gpm' to install the Intel Gigabit network driver. This may take some time, depending on your internet connection speed.
  3. Step 3: Step 3: Reboot your computer and enter UEFI mode by pressing F2 during boot-up or using a UEFI bootable USB drive. Select the network card as the first device to be detected and save the changes.
  4. Step 4: Step 4: If you encounter any issues, try updating the motherboard's UEFI firmware to the latest version. You can do this by visiting the manufacturer's website for instructions on how to update the firmware.

Reinstall the Network Card

  1. Step 1: Step 1: Shut down your computer and unplug it from the power source.
  2. Step 2: Step 2: Carefully remove the network card from its PCIe slot. Be careful not to damage any surrounding components.
  3. Step 3: Step 3: Remove any screws or clips holding the network card in place.
  4. Step 4: Step 4: Inspect the network card for any signs of physical damage or corrosion.
  5. Step 5: Step 5: Reinstall the network card, ensuring it is properly seated and screwed into place.
  6. Step 6: Step 6: Reboot your computer and enter UEFI mode. Select the network card as the first device to be detected and save the changes.

✨ Wrapping Up

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue with your Intel Gigabit network card and boot your computer in UEFI mode. If you encounter any further issues, consider consulting the motherboard's user manual or contacting the manufacturer for assistance.

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