I have a Dell Inspiron Desktop 537ST running WinXP PRO. Shortly after an automatic windows update, the computer would display the desktop, however the icon in the tray for the Ethernet connection would not display. Additionally, I received a notice that the Windows firewall was off, and attempting to turn it on did not work. I only received a dialog box saying that it could not be turned on at this time.  After 10-20 minutes, the network icon appears in the tray, the Windows firewall warning disappears and I am able to proceed normally. I would *love* to know what I can do to remedy this problem. Using the task manager immediately upon entering Windows the Local Area Connection is shown as operational under the Networking tab. Sometimes I am able to use Outlook Express and check my mail, but all other internet tools such as browsers, etc. only "try" to execute, but do not do so until the local area connection appears in the tray.