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General discussion

Sudden internet failure

Aug 31, 2007 11:34PM PDT

Hi there, I was hoping you guys could help me out with an internet problem.

My computer is connected to a router (specifically a Motorala SURFboard SB5100) via a USB connection. For the longest time, it was connected to my computer, and networked via ethernet from my computer to my dad's PC, allowing shared internet. A couple of weeks ago, the PSU on my own computer died, and during the computers downtime, I took the ethernet from my PC and connected it directly to the router, allowing the internet on my dad's PC.

When I replaced the PSU, everything was back to normal, except the internet no longer works on my PC. I reformatted the HDD, and tried the set up the internet the way I always have done, and it still doesn't work. An icon appears saying 'aquiring network address' and then after 60 seconds or so the yellow exclimation mark symbol appears and says 'limited or no connectivity'. I've tested all the USB ports, they work fine with every other device.

Anyone know what the problem might be and how I can solve it? I'm running on Windows XP (both computers) btw.

Discussion is locked

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Could be an incomplete Windows install.
Sep 1, 2007 12:31AM PDT

I must write I don't see the "sudden" issue here. There were events that should have killed the access and what's left is the usual Windows install issues. Too many are unaware about drivers needed for their PC. Your post didn't clear this up. Also a power supply failure can damage hardware. You didn't tell if you tried a new ethernet card.

Bob

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Internet failure
Sep 1, 2007 12:48AM PDT

Well as I said, the router connects to my PC primarily through USB (all of which I tested with other devices, they work fine), so I'm assuming the ethernet card wouldnt play a part on the standard set up. Also, I reformatted windows, and reinstalled all the drivers that are needed, and it still fails to work.

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Then I agree.
Sep 1, 2007 2:29AM PDT

You have some broken hardware. Try a new USB PCI card since that's cheaper than a motherboard.

-> You don't want to know how many times people tell me they installed the drivers and I still had to get the drivers and install them...

Also, there can be issues with flipping from USB to Ethernet or back. Why USB? If ethernet is there I can test it in a flash by booting up my LiveCD with Linux.

Bob