It looks like there's only one set of drivers listed for that wireless adapter on Dell's site, so I'm assuming this is what you have installed.  I'd say give Intel's drivers a shot but it looks like they're listing the same version number for this adapter.  That's an interesting one.

I've got the same problem with the 32 bits version on Windows 7 Service Pack 1.

I already downloaded and tried all the drivers from Dell, but it wouldn't solve the problem.

Anyone with a solution?

Hi Larry,

I am also facing the same problem with the wireless for my 3550. The Dell service personal came and changed most of the hardware related to hardware. Then when he almost give up, we saw the new version of the bios(A05) in the driver download. It became much better but it is still very, very slow. When I use my external usb wireless adapter( Unbranded made in China) it is very fast. Right now I am still trying to figure out how to get the thing working as normal without using the external usb wifi adapter. If you have solved your problem, please advise me too. I am also using Windows 7 Professional 64bits.

I also just purchased a Vostro 3550 Laptop and got the same Wireless problem.. or similar... sometimes loosing packets to the point where downloads from the internet are aborted.  Also did a speed test with my Internet Provider and I am getting around 2 Mbps while connected to the LAN card I get around 5 Mbps.  Tried with my old Vostro 1520 and I can achieve 5 Mbps.. so it really points to the wireless on the Vostro 3550.  I am also running Windows 7 professional 64-bit.  I'm in the process of downloading all possible updates... If anyone finds something meanwhile, please post :)  I'll do the same once my tests are done...

Thanks 

Oh well, updated all possible drivers and bios... still very little improvement... I'm running about half the speed of what I can get from my other Vostro 1520 which is also on wireless...

Thanks for the reply PudgyOne. I have tried everything I can think of, and I consider myself to be well versed in the quirks of wireless networking. Maybe mum has just got a dud....

DG

I too am having huge issues with a new Vostro 3550 I purchased for my mother who lives in Invercargill, New Zealand.

The laptop won't connect to her Vodafone wireless router at all. I'm an IT tech and I've tried everything I know. The Vostro 3550 with Intel 1030.

Dell have been less than helpful...a shame really as I was about to get myself a 3750 Vostro. Now I'm considering HP.

There is a real issue here, and no solution from DELL. The laptop sees the router, but can't pass the Association test in the Intel tools.

I've about had a gutsful of Dell. I used to recommend them to everyone, but not anymore.

DG

CHCH/NZ

 dgriffnz,

This adapter works only on the 2.4GHz Band.

http://www.intel.com/products/wireless/adapters/1030/index.htm

Did you try using these Recommended Wireless Router Settings, I use channel 11.

Rick 

Don't know whether this is good news or bad news. Earlier I have posted the problem I face with the Vostro 3550 a few weeks ago. After few complains and services from Dell service personal, I got my wifi up to speed again. The issue is with the intel N1030 wifi combo bluetooth. I was told that it was compatibility with my wireless router so they have changed my wifi card to N6150. The speed went up immediately. This N6150 card does not have the bluetooth but has wimax. Actually it does not matter to me whether I have the wimax or bluetooth. I seldom use bluetooth because most of the time I use wifi at home or work. For bluetooth I can easily get a extenal usb bluetooth, by the way I already have 2 mini ones. So I settle for this card. One thing for sure although I have my frustration but I guess I cannot deny that Dell gave me very good services. It gave me back some confidence for Dell. Now I am happy with this unit. Hope this helps.