an adaptive equalization method and system for automatically adjusting an equalizer to compensate a signal &# 39 ; s frequency dependent loss is disclosed . the method comprises setting the equalizer &# 39 ; s initial coefficient value , receiving an equalized signal , identifying a positive to zero transition of the equalized signal , generating a common mode voltage from the equalized signal , and determining the equalized signal &# 39 ; s tail settling voltage . the method further comprises comparing the equalized signal &# 39 ; s tail settling voltage to the common mode voltage , determining if the signal is over equalized or under equalized based on the comparison , and adjusting the equalizer &# 39 ; s coefficient value based on whether the signal is under equalized or over equalized .