Dimension 8250 - Integrated Ethernet not recognized

I've had my 8250 since mid-2003. I've never had to use my ethernet (on Windows) until now. I know it works since I use it all the time on Linux (no drivers for my wireless adapter for linux,) but windows just doesnt recognize it, it doesnt even know there is an ethernet port. I read on another thread to update the chipset drivers, but the install wizard for those just crashes right away. does anyone have any ideas as to whats wrong/what i can do? thanks.