Confused/new hard drive/why isn't wireless working?

MY hard drive crashed and had to get a new one.  I have a wireless internet connection on my Dell Inspiron E1505.  This was a blank hard drive adn I had to reinstall everything.  Everything is fine EXCEPT the 'net part.  I tried to fix it but the wizard isn't helpful.  It just keeps saying "1394 connection status running."  Or I need some kind of ISP CD or something.  It also says a "failed TCP/IP settings" to query or something like that.  I know I  need to reprogram the whole thing, but doesn't wireless work automatically?!!!

Do I need an Internet Service Provider?  I've been using wireless for 2 years and never had to get an ISP- I assumed I was using a connect from the library or whatever was around.  Has something happened?  That changed the wireless connection?  I'm deaf and having an internet connection is crucial for me. 

I would appreciate any feedback.  THANKS

(and no, I'm not under warranty.  I know, I know!!)