Ethernet over Thunderbolt?

[Blockbuster2033]

First up, I'm not very forum experienced, so if the topic is in the wrong place or something else isn't right, feel free to inform me of that.

 

To my question, all I generally want to know is, whether I can use a Thunderbolt connection as an ethernet connection. I have a practical example:

I own a 13" Asus 2-in-1 that has two Thunderbolt 3 ports. I'm currently thinking about building a SFF computer using a MSI Z590I Unify mainboard which has two Thunderbolt 4 ports. If I could connect the two computers over a Thunderbolt cable and have them establish an Ethernet connection somehow then I could use the laptop as a screen and keyboard for the computer (using Spacedesk) whenever I am not at home, meaning I would only need to carry the computer itself, a power cable for it, the laptop which I have with me most of the time anyway and a mouse which is even optional. It would make for a super sleak setup because the computer could charge the laptop and I wouldn't need to bother with USB-C to RJ45 adapters and ethernet cables and maybe I could even make use of the fast Thunderbolt connection.

[jj9987]

I recall hearing something about Thunderbolt 3 Networking Mode or such, but am not sure. Might be worth a search.

[Blockbuster2033]

1 hour ago, jj9987 said:

I recall hearing something about Thunderbolt 3 Networking Mode or such, but am not sure. Might be worth a search.

You are right. I was under the impression of having heard something as well, but couldn't remember what it was called. I found out it is possible, MSI has a great explenation of how to do it, but turns out that it isn't that simple in reality. I found people in other forums having severe trouble installing the thunderbolt drivers. I myself can't even get the driver installed properly on my laptop, but that's a problem for another day.