Connecting to my wireless network.

I am trying to set up my first wireless network. I have a DSL connection that goes through a Netgear WDNR3400 router. I have everything hooked up correctly because my old desktop is now running through it. My problem is when put the install disk into my new laptop (Inspiron15R) it says that the ethernet adapter is disabled or none is installed. I can go to the device manager and it says the adapter is working. What do I need to do from here?