Network Problems with month-old Dell.

[Vortex22]

Been working fine for about a month... connected to a cable connection shared with another computer through a hub. Windows is suddenly reporting that the network cable is not plugged in. I disconnected the hub and tried a direct connection to the cable modem but still had the same problem (while the other computer worked fine both ways.) Tried another cable too. The modem doesn't even respond to the connection (no activity lights on modem or network adapter).

I ran some Intel diagnostic program and it failed the "loopback test", whatever that is. The network adapter is built into the motherboard... so the whole thing will have to be replaced if it's bad. I only have the basic 1 year (not in-home) service plan also. Ugh.

Could there be something I'm missing? If the adapter is indeed bad (but the computer works fine otherwise) do you think I should go through the hassle of replacement, or should I just buy a PCI adapter and forget about it? I wouldn't be too satisfied knowing that part of the mobo is messed up if I did that though. I just know it is going to be a major PITA to get this replaced.

 

[mechBgon]

No worries, you can get a PCI NIC for very little money if that's what it takes.

Bigger picture: if you have PCs plugged into a switch/hub that's plugged straight into a cable modem, then I suggest getting a router to firewall your computers against the Internet. Netgear RP614 for not much money.

 

[Vortex22]

I agree that I should be using a router, but the hub isn't my problem right now. I'm just trying to determine whether or not this adapter is bad. I know I could easily buy a PCI NIC and slap it in there, but I don't like the idea of leaving a damaged mobo alone in the system.

 

[mechBgon]

Well, at least it's under warranty. Probably time to get on the horn with Dell and begin satisfying them that yeah, it has a problem and they need to come replace the mobo. edit: oops, I see the in-home replacement isn't an option

 

[Vortex22]

I needed a quick fix, so I ran up to worst buy and grabbed that router. (very limited selection)
I plug it in and the damn thing doesn't work. The test light won't turn off at all and the router fails to respond to anything (even manual reset).

 

[helpmeout]

You don't say what model Dell you have, but I had a very similar problem with my model 4600. I found several posts at the time that said onboard NIC's weren't the best route. I put in a PCI NIC and it works fine. I'm on TW RoadRunner.

 

[Vortex22]

It's a Dimension 4600 also.

 

[helpmeout]

Try a PCI NIC.