problem connecting netgear rp614v2

I have a dimension 4600,use windows xp, and DSL with SBC, I have the modem they provided , a speedstream 5100 and no problems there. I am trying to install a netgear rp614v2 router so I can share files, printer and most important internet with a Gateway running 98. At this point I am just trying to get the router working with the Dell and modem. I get as far in the installation as trying to set the configuration of the router but get stuck there. Apparently the computer cannot talk to the router?!? I spent hours on the phone with tech support for netgear. They decided the first router was defective and had me exchange it. I got the second router to connect with the site for settings (192.168.0.1) at first but it still wouldn't connect right. Then it stopped even doing that. More time with tech support- no luck pinging router, have not yet been able to solve problem. Have tried hard reset, have unplugged all, rebooted.... nothing. When disconnect the router and only use dsl modem all is ok. Anyone else have this problem? Any ideas?