Computer has no ip adress

[platinumike]

Iam using windows xp. I tried start>run>cmd>ipconfig and it gives me "windows ip configuration" nothing else, nothing to configure. Also, i plug in my westell dsl(bellsouth issued) modem , I tried both through an ethernet cable and through a usb port. The light on the modem doesnt even come on, meaning my modem doesnt even detect it. Something is severely screwed up here. I just reformatted and reinstalled windows, so i was thinking maybe i need to install the mobo drivers. But that aint it either, cause the pc reads my ipod through the same usb port as well. I remember last time i reformatted everything was plug and play. All help is appreciated!

 

[UlricT]

Make sure your network drivers are installed. (looks like this is the problem) Drivers CD with the mobo?
Pulg in modem, wait for lights to come on.
connect through ethernet to modem...
type ipconfig /release
type ipconfig /renew