Wi-Fi Networking problem

**GreenHorn** · 10-24-2009, 08:05 AM

I've ruled out hardware: Running full Windows XP, Dell Dimension 3100, 3GHZ CPU, 2 GB RAM, current Symantec AV and Firewall. Adapter is Linksys WUSB54GS version 2. Adapter works on other computers with no problem. Two other computers are connected wirelessly to the router, two are on ethernet. This is NOT a hardware problem, everything has been double checked and works except on this computer. I've double and triple checked the security settings, network name, passphrase, etc. I sat down with the laptop and went through each step to mirror the settings that work on other systems. I'm certain it's an XP software issue.

I've tried both WZC and Linksys software. Using WZC, computer recognizes the adapter, driver install goes fine, and the setup for SSID and password is uneventful. After the setup, the system will not see any wireless networks although there are 4 available. Going back into the network properties, when I click on the Properties button, the window locks up, and I have to end task using Task Manager.

Using the Linksys software, the install goes fine, the computer recognizes the adapter, and the multiple networks show up. After plugging in the correct SSID and password and trying to connect, I get "Cannot Associate with Access Point".

I have uninstalled and reinstalled the drivers and hardware multiple times. I got the most current drivers from the Linksys site. I've tried disabling WZC in Services and running the Linksys software. I've tried the Linksys software with WZC enabled. I've disabled the Symantec firewall. Windows firewall is off. This computer networks fine when plugging directly into the router via ethernet.

Again, this is NOT a hardware issue. I generally know how to connect to a network. This adapter works on other computers, using both WZC and the Linksys software, and one of the other computers runs Linux (a dual boot system with LinuxICE and Ubuntu on it). I've pretty extensively Googled this, but haven't found any other instances of this problem, except one techie site that requires a subscription for the solution.

Before I get beat up for considering this system for an in-truck, it isn't my first choice. I've got an Optiplex SX260 which has a smaller board, but the DVD connection is a challenge, the hard drive connection will be messy, the power switch connection isn't the best and there's no PCI slots. The 3100 actually has a small motherboard, two PCI slots and SATA drive connections, simplifying a couple of issues.

Any ideas on my networking dilemma??

**coreyspeed** · 10-25-2009, 04:14 AM

have you treid connecting a network cable to the computer to check it actually can connect to the interenet, aslo i would try turning off you sercuity key and try connecting with out it. if it works then it is a user typo error.

**GreenHorn** · 10-25-2009, 11:45 AM

It does network fine when direct connected to the router. That's fine for now, but I need the wireless for the truck install, I'm not going to string a network cable out the window to the driveway and crawl under the dash to connect to my network.
I've checked the wireless with two other systems, and have no problem connecting them, the passphrase isn't the problem.

Anyone have any ideas, or know of any websites to point me toward that might have the answer?

**PaulF** · 10-25-2009, 01:05 PM

Are you using windows to configure the wireless network, or the the software that came with the wireless card?

**GreenHorn** · 10-25-2009, 02:17 PM

I've tried both, using the windows, it won't show the networks. Using the Linksys software, it will see the networks, but won't associate with the neworks.

**PaulF** · 10-25-2009, 03:15 PM

Are you using a stripped down version of windows xp? (nlite, etc)
Do you have service pack 2 installed?
Have you disabled the Wirless Zero Configruation service?
Have you tried uninstalling the linksys software, and keeping the driver, and allowing windows to have control of the wireless adapter?