How to uninstall & install the network adaptor?

Question

Hello, How do I find, uninstall and re-install the 'network adaptor' on my Dimension 4100? I have lost my internet access, and tech support at SBC-AT&T-Yahoo says it's because the 2Wire modem can't find a valid ISP number on my computer. Tech support and I fond the ISP number but tech support says it's invalid because it begins with 169. The computer itself declines to 'repair' the number, (i.e., create a new one that begins with a valid first three numbers) and the AT&T--Yahoo tech support guy says I therefore must find the internet adaptor, uninstall it, and then re-install it. I have searched the Control Panel including Install-Uninstall Software section, and also searched this Forum to no avail. The OpSystem was originally ME, upgraded a year ago to XP Home. Obviously I am not sending this message on that computer. Suggestions? Even, can I dare to hope, A Solution? Thanks, Joe

volcano11 · Answer

We first need to know which Network Adapter is physically present in your computer.  Go ot Device Manager and expand the listing for Network Adapters.  What is listed there?   Steve

jwsjostrom · Answer

Steve, There's two listings: 1394 Net Adapter and Realtek RTL8149 Family PCI Fast Ethernet NIC Joe

jwsjostrom · Answer

Steve, Thanks very much for looking. I'll give your suggestions a shot. Would I do it with both the '1394 Net Adapter' and the 'Realtek RTL8149 Family PCI Fast Ethernet NIC' or just one of them? Otherwise, I can't figure out the lack of drivers. I've been using the Internet with a 2Wire model for many months, although the modem was recently replaced because they previous one failed under warranty. Maybe the newer one added something...or subtacted somethin...from my PC. I'll try it and let you know what happens. Joe

volcano11 · Answer

After an extensive search, I can't find any Windows XP compatible drivers for that network card.  It is not one of the ones that Dell shipped with your model.  Did you add this network card after you purchased the computer?  Without updated drivers, the only thing I can suggest is to go into Device Manager again, select the network card, then right click and select Uninstall. Reboot the computer and let Windows install its own drivers. Then turn off the modem and the computer, wait a few minutes, turn on the modem first and wait a few minutes more, then turn on the computer and see if you have a network connection.   Steve

volcano11 · Answer

The 1394 adapter is your firewire port (not normally used in networking).  There is no reason to uninstall the 1394 adapter.    Steve

jwsjostrom · Answer

Steve, I uninstalled Realtek and rebooted. After reboot, Realtek has reappeared in the Device Manager. However I still can't get onto the Internet. That leaves two options: get a wireless card for my desktop, or take the ol' Dell over to my computer guy, also named Steve, and let him whip it back into shape. Here's a pretty good jukebox site http://www.tropicalglen.com/ that may help make your searches more pleasant. Thanks very much, Joe

volcano11 · Answer

Did you do the reset of the modem like I asked you to do?   Note that a new network adapter will only cost you about $10 if one is necessary.   Steve

Networking, Internet, & Bluetooth

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