Ethernet connection problems on Macbook Pro 13

I have a Macbook Pro that is only a year and a half old or so. At school I use an ethernet connection for internet because though the WiFi is ok it gets bogged down when all twenty something thousand of us get online at once. Recently The ethernet connection hasn't been working and I've switched cables and it still doesn't work. Under Network Preferences it says the cable is unplugged even if it is plugged in. I've searched through forums and can't find my answer and though my mac is still fairly new I couldn't afford apple care so it'll cost me near fifty bucks to talk to a support specialist about this problem. Can anyone help me?

How are you connecting to the schools ethernet network? A jack in the wall or a Router or switch?

I am hoping that somehow your Ethernet port on the MBP did not get damaged or die. Do you have some kind of Switch or Router you can plug it into? If so, does the light on the router for that port light up when the MBP is plugged into it?

Also you might look at the Ethernet port and see if you see any bent pins. All I can think of right now.

It's a jack in the wall. No light or anything. I've looked at the ethernet port and it looks fine.

wespaul88 said:

It's a jack in the wall.

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Please you have to be more specific. Is this a jack on the wall of a public place, i.e.: Library, or in your dorm? and it worked (same exact jack you say) before?

If dorm, you are entitled to tell the IT guys you are not getting a "cable plugged in" message and to check whether they unplugged anything. At the same time, please do try other jacks, your neighbor's etc. If public place, good luck getting the IT guys do anything for you, they just tell you to use another jack in another part of the facility.