I just reformatted my computer and when I got to my desktop, I double-clicked Internet Explorer to download the latest drivers for my graphics card, chipset, etc., and it would not let me connect to the Internet. I have had the same setup for my network connection for 4 years and cannot seem to figure out what the problem is. I am using a Dell TrueMobile 2300 router which is connected from the Cable Modem -> Router -> My PC. I was able to connect to the Internet before I reformatted but Windows cannot determine my internet connection.

Did you remember to reconfigure your dhcp settings?

How do you do reconfigure my DHCP settings?

oh hell. In 'my network neighborhood' or something liek that, you goto tcp/ip , properties, then 'use DHCP'.

Oh, and come to think of it, your MAC address on the ethernet card may not be recognized by the router, or vice versa. You need to disconnect your cable, modem, router, etc. and have the power off for a few minutes. Maybe.

TCP/IP...where is that located in? How do I access it from the desktop?

under control panel. In "Network settings". Guess, it's not like you can break anything new.

You did reload the chipset drivers and nic drivers right? XP disc doesn't always have drivers for all hardware.

lol, no. goto your local library. unless his system is oem built.