More info needed such as your computer model and network setup. Did you set up Network and Sharing Center on the vista computer? Maybe Network Discovery is not turned on there, as well as any other the other relevant services--file sharing, etc. You should change the name of your Workgroup, too, so that all the computers are on the same one. XP uses a diff default workgroup than vista. You might be able to direct connect the Dell to the router with Ethernet cable if the desktop is near the router so you won't need to start the wireless. Do you have a wireless card in the Dell? Desktops don't come with wireless unless specifically ordered or added.

Mary,

 

Thanks for the reply.  Yes, I have a LinkSys wireless adapter card in a slot on my Dell Inspiron 530.  Once I "start" the wireless service manually, the connection runs great.  The workgroup name is set up properly, I can share files and print jobs among my home systems, etc.  The key is that the wireless service does not start "automatically" upon re-boot or power-up.  If you or anyone else has an idea why my Vista does not start it automatically, I'd love to hear your thoughts.  Thanks!  Dave.

http://www.uncwil.edu/itsd/wireless/Wireless%20Instructions%20(Vista).htm

Hi Dave

Read the link and see if number 4 can help you !

But read all of the page first !

I used this to get my wireless to work automatically after reboot.

Good Luck

Edit copy and past to your browser!

Mary,

 

Thanks for your advice.  You are a real pal.  I wnet through the routine MS suggested to change the fragmentation value.  We'll see if that solves the problem in the long run.  I uninstalled/reinstalled my wilreless adapter in Dev Mgr to resolve this issue in the short run.  Let me know if you are ever in the SF Bay area and I will buy you lunch.  Dave George.