Dropped connection

[Renegade 65]

Not being the sharpest tack in the box, I have a problem and don't know where to start.
I have DSL service and run a 2-Wire 1800HG Gateway provided by SBC, now AT&T.
The problem is as long as I am working on the PC the service remains connected but should I take a break, leave the computer for a few minutes, when I return I find I'm disconnected.
The quick fix is I open Network Connections and do a repair then I'm up and running again. This problem just started today (12/19/2008) and I don't know where to start looking. While working the lights on the gateway remain lit and steady. Usually if there is a gateway problem a light will blink or change color. Any ideas where a senior citizen should start looking?

[mikeL]

Are you running a wired or wireless connection. Any firewalls or Internet Security programs running. Have run any Anti-Virus or spyware / malware scans.

[Renegade 65]

Wired connection; Zone Alarm Internet Security Suite; Counter Spy. Nothing shows up on any scan. Also disabled ZA and CS for a while but never affected any change in connection.

[mikeL]

I would contact your ISP's tech support, it may be an issue with your modem

[glc]

Go into device manager and find your network adapter. Look on the Power Management tab and uncheck the box that allows the computer to turn off the device to save power.