[JohnWill]

I'd replace the NIC first.

[willdawiz]

1. I don't have zone alarm. I run comodo and avast for security.
2. How would 5 go bout replacing the my network ports if they're attached to the motherboard? Unless I misunderstood you, JohnWill, and you mean the Rosewill card. That's currently out of the system, but if you guys would like me to put it back in...

[sector9]

I know this sounds stupid but have you tried to unplugg the ethernet cable from the machine and completely power down the sysytem, pull the power plug and leave sit for a good 5 or 6 minutes, then plug the computer back and start it up plug the ethernet cord in and see if it works. as dumb as this sounds it has worked for me when nothing else did.

[willdawiz]

Mmm, no good. I followed your instructions, but the problem remains resiliently unbroken.

[willdawiz]

I don't know what to do guys, I'm thinking about buying a new NIC, seeing if it fixes the problem. What do you think?

[TerryNet]

That's what John suggested, and I sure have no disagreement. If that doesn't work you could try a USB adapter.

[willdawiz]

Sorry to activate an older thread, but the issue isn't quite solved. I have purchased the new NIC, which is a Rosewill RC-411. it arrived today, and after following all instructions, the problem persists. Now this seems to point to something broader than just the onboard networking part of the motherboard failing. That might mean a defective motherboard, and I think it is still under warranty. Bad news is, I have an OEM copy of Vista, meaning I can change any part of my computer but my motherboard. To keep it working legitimately might cause a few hours on Microsoft's support line. Anyways, what do you guys think?

[TerryNet]

I think that you want to take advantage of the motherboard warranty. Be sure to keep all documentation and records (including details of phone calls) of any motherboard action in case you need it to prove your case with Microsoft.

[willdawiz]

While Im doing this, the motherboard was purchased through Newegg. Anyone suggest RMAing through either Newegg or MSI? Haha, just learned hat this product's last warranty from the manufacture runs out in three days.

[JohnWill]

Time to get the RMA pronto!

[willdawiz]

On the subject of Microsoft, I was looking for a way of contacting them. However, all tech support costs either $90 or $60 per request. Do I wait for the motherboard to be replaced, and then maybe they find out, asking me to activiate, calling their activation line? Or just ingore it, as they can't really tell I've changed motherboards, even though that's breakign the agreement. Any suggestions as a course of action, or better yet, a method of contact?

[TerryNet]

I don't know if a motherboard change will cause your Windows activation, or authentication as legitimate to fail. If it does ...

This may help: http://www.microsoft.com/genuine/sel...f-1a0b8be1f355

Better yet, I think you can send an email question now: http://support.microsoft.com/oas/def...509&gprid=9860

[JohnWill]

Normally a MB change will force an activation. Just wait for the failure, then call the 800 number that pops up on the screen. After some explanation, they'll take you through the phone activation process.

[willdawiz]

This problem has me stumped. I have received the motherboard back today. After reconnecting everything in my computer, the problem was the same. Seeing as it was the same motherboard, no activation was necessary. I was disappointed. Either MSI didn't fix it, or it's something else. I'm installing Ubuntu onto an empty partition to see if it can find internet.

[willdawiz]

Breakthrough! I'm currently posting through the afflicted computer! However, I'm currently in ubuntu 8.04, running off a live cd. However, this is monumental and, while I don't have the tech expertise to fix the problem myself, this should hopefully provide some necessary information to get the train back on the track. Thanks for a thread revival guys.