My desktop (running Windows Media Center Edition 2005) was directly wired to the router, which also served as the wireless access point for my other desktop (running Windows XP Pro SP2 - my son uses it). Both desktops were able to connect to the Internet without problem.

Last week I had to reinstall my Windows Media Center OS. Since then my desktop has experienced the connectivity problem. It's not able to pick up the IP address from my service provider's LAN.

I have tried reinstalling the built-in network adapter's driver. I've tried disabled the built-in netwprk adapter to use the wireless adapter instead. I've also tried using an external network adapter. None of these worked.

When I look at the cable that plugs into the built-in network port, there is green light, but the light is not flashing. I remember seeing the light blinking when connectivity was fine. Now the light doesn't blink. According to my desktop's Device Manager, the built-in network adapter is working properly.

I know both the cable modem and the router are working because my other desktop with the wireless network adapter can connect to the Internet. My service provider's and the router vendor's technicians could not help. For the moment I am using my son's PC to do my surfing and e-mailing.

Does anyone have any idea as to what the problem could be?

Thank you.

wpcworld

To try the static IP address suggestion, do I get the address from my ISP?

Thank you.

The desktop passed the communcations (network cable, network link, TCP/IP network communications) test and motherboard test by PC-Doctor. Also I've downloaded and reinstalled the network adaptor driver from HP. So the driver should be up-to-date. I'm not sure what the problem is. The PC was just a year old.

My PC and my son's do not share any network functions. They share only the Internet connection through the router.

I guess either I'll do away with my PC's Internet connection or pay $100 to get it fixed!