well i still got gear that is pre hdmi I wish to use..

economically adding the daughter board lan the may not be warranted, though I thought it was a nice option to have, considering all the items coming out with networking features and existing hardware that already has it as standard.

most processors come with network port
what's the harm adding 8, 16 or 24-48 ports..
for 10/100 gear starts about $50 for a 5-8 port
gigabit pending on switch features starts about $250 for 8ports, 450+ 16ports, $500-1,500+ 24-48 ports..