HELP -- On-board LAN problem -- SK8V

[ghoti]

I'm working on my first DIY (FX-53 and SK8V; Win XP Pro SP1), and trying to work through the problems I'm encountering. Thanks to much help from some good people on these forums (mechBgon deserves special mention), I'm getting there (though slowly, one stop at a time).

The latest: my Verizon DSL software tells me it has determined that I must use USB link to the two-way (USB/ Ethernet) modem. This seems odd, indeed, since my MB has on-board LAN capability! Anyway, when I go to Device Manager (or whatever they call it now), it does not list the LAN under Network Adapters -- it DOES show the Ethernet under Controllers (I think), but everything in that category has yellow blips and exclamation marks. I have yet to load drivers off the CD that come with the MB -- will this solve the problem? I was trying to get hooked up to the internet first, so I would be able to download the latest drivers.

If I've given confused/ inaccurate descriptions of the symptoms/ problems, I apologize -- it's difficult when I'm limited to the old computer to access internet, and only ONE monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

Thanks for any help/ suggestions.

 

[mechBgon]

I'd go ahead and install the drivers that came with the motherboard, then plug the network cable in once you're sure your firewall software and antivirus software are ready to handle an Internet full of worms You can get the latest drivers and install them over the top of the previous VIA 4-in-1 drivers without a problem.

The Verizon software is probably not necessary when using the Ethernet (LAN) type of hookup. You might want to just get your drivers installed, plug into the modem, reboot and see if it automagically works through the wonders of DHCP. If you can get yourself a cable/DSL router, that would be a good idea to form a first line of defense. Good luck!

 

[fkloster]

WOW.... one more SK8V + FX53 guy

 

[ghoti]

Thanks all!

Mech, do you still favor the LinkSys router/firewall you mentioned in your Guide for First-timers? I've been trying to read up and fathom the specs/ literature on the hardware firewall protocols: NAT, DoS, SPI, etc. It's tough to get a handle on it all, though my first reaction was "the more the merrier", in terms of the protocols. I THINK the LinkSys had only NAT; is that a drawback?

I must say I want to avoid configuration problems with the firewall. I am running Norton Inernet Security now, and I have a heckuva time configuring the firewall rules because some of the time I cannot tell which applications I should be allowing to access internet, which are optional (but best NOT allowed, e.g., MSN Messenger), and which are worms, or otherwise detrimental/ dangerous!

Any help?

Thanks again!

 

[mechBgon]

The Linksys is the only one I've owned myself, and I like it for its relative simplicity of configuration, but if you get one you'll want to upgrade its firmware because they do have a vulnerability that needs fixing. Mine is currently on loan, but that's ok since I currently have dial-up and couldn't use it myself anyway.

The Netgear appears to have more granularity, it can be configured with fancy rules and stuff, and for some people that would be a plus. I have to get ready for work but I'll post a link to the Linksys updates when I'm able to.

 

[mechBgon]

Linksys has fixes for their affected products here.