Once you have downloaded the .zip or .exe file, follow these steps to install it correctly:

This usually indicates a version mismatch or a corrupted installation. Uninstall the current driver from Device Manager, restart your PC, and attempt a fresh installation using the Realtek Auto-Installer.

If you are using a branded PC, manufacturers often provide customized versions of this driver that are optimized for your specific hardware.

The most direct source is the Realtek Download Center . Look for the "Win7 and Server 2008 R2 Auto Installation Program." This package is designed to automatically detect your 32-bit architecture and install the necessary files.