What Does Ethernet Adapter Mean?
An Ethernet adapter is a piece of hardware that allows a device or workstation to access an Ethernet connection. Ethernet adapters can be add-ons that go into an expansion board, or they can be directly installed in the motherboard of a computer or device.
Techopedia Explains Ethernet Adapter
The most common kind of Ethernet adapter is a PC card, which has an Ethernet connection and a circuit board. Some versions of these adapters can be simply fitted into a corresponding hole in the plastic tower of a desktop computer. Ethernet adapters can use various kinds of Cat5 or Cat6 cables to hook up to an Ethernet connection.