Are the network adapters still useable in their standard/original form?

Im a casual gamer that likes the traditional method to play games and wanted to get my ps2 online to the private servers. Am I able to just plug the network adapter in and then run an ethernet cable from the network port to my router and then connect online? Ive been trying to do research but all I see is people modding them and doing all sorts of stuff like that. Appreciate any help. Thanks