ASUS "Network Cable Unplugged"

This is a follow-up to the closed post https://ccm.net/forum/affich-100254-network-cable-unplugged-but-isn-t?full#18

Problem Description: LAN NIC shows as unplugged regardless of whether it's true.

Things tried: updating drivers/bios to latest versions, downgrading drivers to ASUS recommendations, using the Microsoft Update versions of the NIC drivers, hard-setting speed duplex, turning off power saving on the adapter, different cables/switches

Resolution: power off the laptop and remove the battery. Hold down the power button for 15 seconds and boot it up. NIC works until the laptop is suspended and wakes up, then problem recurs.


My question here is what could possibly cause this? My NIC is integrated so a replacement is out of the question and I'm flummoxed as to what kind of problem would have this solution. Why is my NIC holding a charge that is essentially deactivating itself. The only thing that would make any semblance of sense is that there are some power-saving feature of the standby process that isn't allowing the NIC to accept new connections.

Any insights would be appreciated.

Thanks.