T42: hard/software installations kill all net connections

[squeejee]

This has been a problem for a while with my T42, and I've never been able to find any insight into it.
Often when I install a piece of software, or more often when I try to install new hardware (even PnP) such as a DV or web cam, my T42 will no longer recognize any available network connections. The wireless card will turn on but show no signals, plugging into the router will not do anything, and the problem will remain even when the hardware or software is removed and the machine restarted. The only way to fix it seems to be rolling back to a previous restore point. This is driving me nuts. Any thoughts?

Thanks,
Si

[sjthinkpader]

Welcome to the forum.

What are the Windows, Access Connection, ethernet card driver and WiFi card driver versions? Have you ran virus, malware check recently?

[squeejee]

Thanks for the welcome.

Here's what I've got:

XP Pro SP2
AC 4.52
Ethernet: Intel PRO/1000 MT Mobile Connection, 8.7.9.0
WiFi: 11b/g Wireless LAN Mini PCI Adapter (Atheros) 4.0.100.140

All clear of viruses/malware.

[RealBlackStuff]

My first suggestion: deactivate (or even remove) AC and let Windows manage your connections.
Second suggestion: beg/steal/borrow another wifi card.
Third: install Netstumbler

[sjthinkpader]

Here is my suggestion:

1. Update to SP3
2. Update AC to 5.12 (may need .NET Frameworks 3.0)
3. Update WiFi driver to at least v7.4.2.134
4. I am also using intel Pro/1000 v8.7.9.0

Are there anything else you might have installed just before the problem?